June/July 2010

SPECIAL DOUBLE ISSUE | Team profi les | Star players | National hopes | South Africa’s long journey | Leaving a legacy | Broadcast innovations | From Montevideo to Johannesburg | Meet the referees | Team nicknames

TIME FOR AFRICA The 2010 FIFA World Cup™ is fi nally here!

EDITORIAL

CELEBRATING HUMANITY

Dear members of the FIFA family,

Finally it has arrived. Not only is the four-year wait for the next FIFA World Cup™ almost over, but at last the world is getting ready to enjoy the fi rst such tournament to be played on African soil. Six years ago, when we took our most prestigious competition to Africa, there was plenty of joy and anticipation on the African continent. But almost inevitably, there was also doubt and scepticism from many parts of the world. Those of us who know Africa much better can share in the continent’s pride, now that South Africa is waiting with its famed warmth and hospitality for the imminent arrival of the world’s “South Africa is best teams and their supporters. I am convinced that the unique setting of this year’s tournament will make it one of the most waiting with its memorable FIFA World Cups. famed warmth and Of course we will also see thrilling and exciting football. But the fi rst-ever African World Cup will always be about more than just hospitality, and I am the game. In this bumper double issue of FIFA World, you will fi nd plenty of information on the competition itself, the major stars convinced that the and their dreams of lifting our famous trophy in Johannesburg’s unique setting of this spectacular Soccer City on 11 July. But you will also read about our activities off the pitch, and how FIFA is continuing to play year’s tournament an active role both in developing football and contributing to more general social improvement programmes – particularly will make it one of right now in Africa but also around the world. the most memorable Those efforts will of course continue after the fi nal whistle has blown, at which time we shall refocus our attention on our FIFA World Cups.” next set of competitions, starting just two days later with the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Germany. The work of course is never fi nished, but occasionally we can pause to enjoy the fruits of that labour, none of which are more rewarding than the FIFA World Cup itself. Whether you are lucky enough to be in South Africa, or are one of the devoted millions tuning in from distant shores, I wish you a tournament that is fair, exciting, spectacular and, above all, truly African.

Joseph S. Blatter, FIFA President

FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 3

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

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VIEW NEWS FOCUS SUMMARY

6 10 64 156 CAPE TOWN, SHOWTIME TEAM PROFILES ASSOCIATIONS JOHANNESBURG, The “Rainbow Nation” An individual look at all The latest news from DURBAN, gets ready to shine 32 contenders our members HERZOGENAURACH Spectacular images as South 28 146 158 Africa prepares to welcome LEAVING A LEGACY PIRATES, EAGLES MEN’S RANKING the world How the 2010 FIFA World AND ELEPHANTS Brazil take over Cup™ is benefi ting all of What nicknames say about Africa national teams 160 FIFA ARCHIVE 46 150 Long boat to Uruguay FUNDING THE DECISION-MAKERS FUTURE Face to face with the 2010 Ensuring local involvement FIFA World Cup referees in South Africa’s World Cup

48 EIGHT MEMORABLE DECADES Reliving 80 years of FIFA World Cup history

FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 5 VIEW

READY AND WAITING Offi cial 2010 FIFA World Cup™ Mascot Zakumi welcomes fans to Cape Town’s spectacular new Green Point Stadium, one of ten magnifi cent venues being used for the tournament in South Africa.

6 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 NO MORE HANGING AROUND

With her head apparently turned upside down by football, a young South African swings from a Johannesburg climbing frame while blowing South Africa’s iconic vuvuzela trumpet.

FIFA WORLD I VIEW 7 CONFIDENT FANS A brightly-clad Bafana Bafana supporter is all smiles as South Africa warm up for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ with a 1-1 friendly draw with Namibia in Durban.

8 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 SMILE! South Africa’s Brazilian coach Carlos Alberto Parreira tries out life on the other side of the lens during his team’s April training camp in Germany.

FIFA WORLD I VIEW 9 NEWS TIME TO CELEBRATE

10 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Every FIFA World Cup™ is different, with the host nation in particular lending each edition of FIFA’s fl agship tournament its own fl avour, unique characteristics and memorable moments. But the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ has the potential to be the most memorable yet with its South African setting marking the long- awaited arrival of world football’s most prestigious tournament on humanity’s oldest continent. It has been a long road, both in convincing the doubters that South Africa was ready redouble its efforts on the continent, both to receive the FIFA World Cup and then in in terms of football development and its meeting the long list of requirements that social development programmes. go into staging an event of this magnitude. While the international fans are sampling But, as you will discover in the pages of all that South Africa has to offer, this this special double issue of FIFA World, it will also be a tournament for the South has been worth the wait and the effort. African people. With the help of the South Africa is ready and the country’s Local Organising Committee and the FIFA hosting of FIFA’s biggest tournament is Partners, FIFA’s innovative Ticket Fund set to see the “Rainbow Nation” welcome initiative has enabled thousands of local hundreds of thousands of international residents who would not otherwise have football fans, many of them fi rst-time been able to afford tickets to a World Cup visitors to Africa. In between enjoying match to take their places in the stadiums. football matches of the highest calibre For those without tickets, the FIFA Fan there will be the chance to discover and Fests™ will again be providing a stadium savour the diversity of South Africa and atmosphere in public viewing areas across the famed warmth of its equally diverse the country and, for the fi rst time, in six people – whose 11 distinctive cultures other locations around the globe – a fi tting and languages have now come together project for a tournament that promises to in a nation particularly well-suited to bring the world to Africa and beam Africa welcoming the 31 international teams to the world. who will now be arriving in the country. As well as being a milestone for Africa The tournament is a chance to celebrate and a chance to revise old prejudices, as the Africa and also to give something back to world comes together once more, the 2010 a continent that has already given so much FIFA World Cup is of course still at heart a and too rarely received the recognition football competition, and later in this issue or gratitude that it deserves. Later in this we offer a detailed look back at the history issue, we take a look at how FIFA has and events of the 18 previous editions. The used the staging of the fi rst FIFA World second half of the magazine, from page 64 Cup on African soil as an opportunity to onwards, is then given over to the teams in an assessment of their respective strengths and star players, a review of how they qualifi ed for the tournament and a sense of their hopes for the fi nal competition itself. Whether you are reading this issue in South Africa or elsewhere, whether during the tantalising last few days before the event gets under way or during a pause between the action, the FIFA World South Africa’s bright and noisy supporters could make this the loudest team wish you a successful and highly FIFA World Cup™ ever. memorable 2010 FIFA World Cup.

FIFA WORLD I NEWS 11 RAINBOW MOMENT South Africa’s transformation from pariah state to 2010 FIFA World Cup™ hosts is a tale of amazing social and political change, in which sport has often played a signifi cant role.

By Luxolo Mantambo, Johannesburg

From fighting and conquering the For a country that tasted liberation and perfect. It will also signal the end apartheid system to emerging out of global less than two decades ago, South Africa of a journey that has been travelled, as isolation and hosting major international already boasts an impressive record when FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter put it, events, South Africa has travelled a long, it comes to hosting major international “with trust and confi dence” – confi dence fascinating and sometimes meandering sports events – although none yet on in Africa’s capability to showcase itself journey that has included speed bumps, the same scale as the 2010 FIFA World on the world stage and trust in South trials, triumphs and plenty of glorious Cup. Indeed, by staging FIFA’s fl agship Africa’s promise to deliver not only a great moments – all in the space of the mere tournament, South Africa will become tournament, but to leave a legacy for the 16 years that have passed since the nation the fi rst African country to have hosted entire African continent. achieved democracy. World Cups for three major sporting codes To fully comprehend the elation, passion Now the “Rainbow Nation”, as post- – starting with the Rugby World Cup in and emotions associated with this FIFA apartheid South Africans fondly refer to 1995 and continuing with cricket for the World Cup™, one needs to understand their country, will take its rightful place in 2003 ICC Cricket World Cup and 2007 the historical background of a country the international spotlight when 31 teams ICC Twenty20 Cricket World Cup. that has emerged from and triumphed descend to the tip of Southern Africa to The kick-off to the 2010 FIFA World over one of the most unjust systems in join the host nation team Bafana Bafana Cup in Johannesburg’s Soccer City on 11 the world, apartheid, and the important for an event that will write a new chapter June will mark the start of a show that contribution which sport made in in the history of the African continent. has taken more than a decade to rehearse confronting apartheid’s iniquities.

Former President Nelson Mandela celebrates another impressive milestone for his country, following the awarding of the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ to South Africa in 2004.

12 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Africa back into the international fold if its promise of establishing a lasting democracy for all citizens was realised. While the losses of life and countless blighted opportunities for generations of politically disenfranchised South Africans were among the severest effects of the apartheid regime, there were also less obvious casualties such as the sportsmen and women who missed out on potentially glittering careers as their country wilted in sporting exile. South Africa had produced some of the most talented footballers on the African continent, but none had had the opportunity to showcase their talents on The state crackdowns which followed the 1976 Soweto uprising led to South Africa’s the international scene. The fi rst name that expulsion from FIFA. comes to most people’s minds is that of Jomo Sono, nicknamed the “Black Prince Ending injustice helped inspire the fi nal struggle against of African Football”. Sono, a Soweto-born By the early 1960s, South Africa’s immoral apartheid,” Mandela said. South Africa’s midfi eld maestro, played with several top division of its people into distinctive first democratically-elected president stars, including FIFA World Cup winners classes with different legal and social also reminded the audience that football rights, based purely on the colour of their had provided solace to his fellow political skin, was provoking not only mounting prisoners during the darkest days of “Through football, internal resistance but also widespread imprisonment on the notorious island jail international condemnation. In 1961, of Robben Island. we can celebrate FIFA took its fi rst offi cial act against the “While we were on Robben Island, the the humanity of the apartheid regime when it suspended only access to a FIFA World Cup would Southern tip of the the all-white Football Association of have been through a radio,” Mandela South Africa (FASA) from international pointed out. “Football offered the only African continent and competition. As the unrest deepened, joyful relief to prisoners. Through football, share it with the rest of world football’s governing body continued we can celebrate the humanity of the to urge the South African government to southern tip of the African continent and the continent and the abandon its racist policies, but without share it with the rest of the continent and wider world.” success. In 1976, following widespread the wider world.” Former South Africa President condemnation over the crackdowns which Nelson Mandela followed the Soweto uprising, FIFA took Mounting pressure the unprecedented step of expelling the Back in those uncertain times of the 1970s FASA from the organisation. and 80s, all football’s leaders could do was Pelé and Franz Beckenbauer, during six Although South Africa’s rugby-obsessed maintain the ban on South Africa and hope successful seasons in North America governing class probably thought little the sanctions imposed together with other but was of course unable to represent about the ban at the time, for the football- professional sports authorities could add his country. Steve “Kalamazoo” Mokone crazy members of the country’s black to the pressure of political and economic was one of South Africa’s fi nest exports population it was a signifi cant victory in sanctions and fi nally bring the apartheid in the 1950s. Others who would surely their ongoing struggle for equality, as regime to the negotiating table. have achieved great things in international no less a fi gure than Nelson Mandela Helped considerably by the peaceful and football include Kaizer Motaung, Ace recalled when he travelled to FIFA’s reconciliatory spirit of Mandela, those talks Ntsoelengoe, Zacharia “Computer” Zurich headquarters in 2004 as part of did of course fi nally take place and it was Lamola, Bashin Mahlangu and Nelson the consortium bidding to bring the FIFA Mandela’s involvement which encouraged “Teenage” Dladla. World Cup to Africa. FIFA in 1991 to lift the ban on international After almost four decades of being “It was 28 years ago that FIFA took its football – providing a clear signal that unable to showcase its stars at the highest stand against racially divided football and the world was ready to welcome South level, South Africa fi nally emerged

FIFA WORLD I NEWS 13 blinking from the darkness of apartheid win over the New Zealand favourites. but aspiring to host the FIFA World Cup with most of its active players virtually Taking place just months after the fi rst was something which many outsiders still unknown in the wider world. None of its democratic elections, it was a show of considered beyond the capabilities of this footballers, with the possible exception of unity that inspired confi dence and belief newly reborn land. the already-retired Sono, Motaung and in a country that was still healing the deep There was indeed disappointment at Mokone, were known at international level. scars of the past. fi rst, when South Africa was pipped to The new generation – all plying their trade Less than a year later, South Africa the post by Germany for the right to stage in the country’s domestic league – were again demonstrated a fi erce sense of the 2006 FIFA World Cup™ despite strong no-names outside of their homeland. territorial pride, as well as impressive endorsements for the African bid from Unknown but clearly not untalented, organisational skills, when it stepped in FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter. Clearly South Africa’s new national football as a late replacement to host the 1996 not a nation given to lightly surrendering team made a promising start on their Africa Cup of Nations. Once more the their dreams, the South Africans pressed international return, securing an home team conquered all, fi nally seeing ahead with a second attempt. Helped this unexpected 1-0 win over Cameroon’s off the experienced Tunisians 2-0 on a time by FIFA’s decision to use a continental sunny afternoon in the same spot where rotation system which would guarantee an the new Soccer City stadium now stands. African host for the 2010 edition, South “After years in isolation Just fi ve years after its readmission to Africa once again pressed its credentials. from the football family, FIFA, South Africa had ascended to the Backed by a high-powered delegation, highest summit of African football, causing including three Nobel Peace Prize winners South African football another outbreak of national euphoria and in the shape of Mandela, Archbishop started on this journey ensuring that the nation’s top players – the Desmond Tutu and Frederik W. de Klerk, likes of Doctor Khumalo, Lucas Radebe, South Africa saw off the two remaining to pursue the FIFA World Mark Fish, Phil Masinga and Neil Tovey – candidates of Morocco and Egypt to fi nally Cup. We will ensure a were no longer only famous in their own bring world football’s biggest event to backyard. Africa. world-class World Cup Though no longer South Africa’s and put a smile on every The big dream president, Mandela’s influence was African face.” Successfully staging and winning the probably pivotal. “Madiba”, as the old Africa Cup of Nations was one thing, statesmen is affectionately known by his 2010 FIFA World Cup Local Organising Committee CEO Dr Danny Jordaan feared Indomitable Lions on 7 July 1992. Fittingly, the match took place at Durban’s Kings Park, just a few metres from the new Durban Stadium which is now getting ready to stage seven games at the 2010 FIFA World Cup, including one of the semi-fi nals.

Home triumphs Two major home soil successes in the years following South Africa’s return to the international fold should certainly serve as a warning to anyone who might underestimate South Africa’s ability to take on the world’s best at this year’s tournament. The most famous of those wins came on the rugby fi eld as South Africa stunned the watching world with victory at the 1995 Rugby World Cup, unexpectedly uniting Home heroics: Linda Buthelezi and Phil Masinga hoist the trophy following their team’s 1996 citizens of every colour with a gripping Africa Cup of Nations triumph.

14 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 compatriots, personally addressed the why his country was the right choice to and become a fl ood stream as the World 24 vote-wielding members of the FIFA stage world football’s most important Cup energy engulfs the African continent executive to tell them that it would be event. and everyone on this earth who loves the a “dream come true” if he could see “After years in isolation from the beautiful game.” his country host the FIFA World Cup – a football family, South African football Six years on, with the stadiums built and request that must have been hard to refuse, started on this journey to pursue the FIFA the necessary infrastructure in place, South coming from a man who had sacrifi ced so World Cup,” Jordaan told the Executive Africa is ready to deliver on the promises much, including almost three decades of Committee members in an emotional of 2004. Even before the tournament has his personal freedom, to bring peace and speech on that historic day. “We have got under way, there has been talk of prosperity to South Africa. consistently asserted that we have world- South Africa’s potential to stage Africa’s Dr Danny Jordaan was another important class infrastructure. This infrastructure fi rst ever Olympic Games. Considering the member of the 2004 delegation. Now the will ensure a world-class World Cup and confi dence, ambition and exuberance of Chief Executive Offi cer of the 2010 FIFA will put a smile on every African face. the South African people, the 2010 FIFA World Cup Local Organising Committee, Our people have risen from the ashes of World Cup may not therefore represent Jordaan had been travelling the world a very painful divided past. Our rivers of the end of the road, but rather a hugely together with future LOC chairman Irvin hope and commitment have never run signifi cant milestone in the long journey Khoza, explaining to key opinion leaders dry. Soon, those rivers of hope will fl ow travelled by this incredible nation.

FIFA SECRETARY GENERAL

Dear friends of football,

The road to the FIFA World Cup™ is a long South Africa as the 2010 hosts, prompting one with its fair share of twists and turns, elated scenes of celebration from Nelson ups and downs along the way. The 31 teams Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu. that have steered a successful course through The six years since that momentous day the qualifi ers to join South African hosts have constituted a period of remarkable Bafana Bafana are witnesses to that. Many change for South Africa. Hosting a major have stumbled en route, faced challenging international sports event leaves its mark hurdles, media scrutiny, injuries to star players on any city or country. The nature of that or coaching changes, but all have already impact differs from one host to the next. achieved something special in reaching the For example, the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Beyond the sport and the issues of fi nals. Germany helped to highlight the host nation’s infrastructure, several social improvement Local Organising Committee CEO Dr Danny passion and fun-loving character. initiatives have also been launched off the Jordaan can certainly appreciate what the In South Africa, the changes that the back of this FIFA World Cup, including the teams have gone through, but his journey World Cup has kindled are more visible – offi cial “20 Centres for 2010” campaign, has been a little longer than their 10, 12 or new infrastructure, roads, buildings, facilities which will see the creation of fi ve Football for 16 match odyssey. Danny’s mission began – all of which will help meet the needs of the Hope Centres in South Africa and a further in 1994 with South Africa’s bid to host the South African people long after the World 15 across the African continent – a reminder 2006 FIFA World Cup™. His bid team set Cup is over. Thousands of jobs have also to all that the 2010 FIFA World Cup South about the task of shaping a strong, high- been created, many of which will become Africa™ is an event for the whole of Africa. quality dossier. However, by the narrowest permanent positions after the event. As well It only remains for me to wish the players, of margins, the FIFA Executive Committee’s as bringing signifi cant changes inside South coaches and match offi cials success as they vote went in favour of Germany. Such a Africa, the FIFA World Cup has also sparked seek to do justice to the setting and efforts of blow could have had a debilitating effect, a dramatic shift in the country’s image the organisers and provide us with a glorious but instead the South Africans regrouped beyond its borders. Scare stories have proved 31-day celebration of the beautiful game. and relaunched their efforts with renewed unfounded, rumours have been dispelled. All vigour. Their determination was rewarded is now set for the show to begin and South four years later, when, on 15 May 2004, the Africa will be a wonderful host to all who FIFA President opened the envelope to reveal travel to the event. Jérôme Valcke

FIFA WORLD I NEWS 15 PRESIDENTIAL MISSION The long overdue arrival of the FIFA World Cup™ on African soil also marks the fulfi lment of a decades-old personal mission for FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter. In an exclusive interview with FIFA World, the President tells of his excitement and optimism as an African dream becomes a thrilling reality.

FIFA World: President Blatter, after you prepare for a big performance. The Africa. Why was an African World pushing so hard for the FIFA World difference is though that it is not my Cup so important to you? Cup to come to Africa, how are you performance that counts. It will be the It has been important to me since the feeling now that the reality is just a performance of the players on the fi eld day in February 1976 when I fi rst visited few days away? of play, the FIFA team, the African team Addis Ababa to start work on one of Joseph S. Blatter: Well, I am not an actor and indeed the whole African continent, FIFA’s fi rst development courses. I had but I can only say that it is probably a and with all these teams working been working at FIFA as a development little like stage fright. I am not nervous together I am sure it will be a wonderful offi cer for just a year and that visit really but just like an actor as he is preparing FIFA World Cup. opened my eyes to what football is really to step on to a big stage. That is a good about, and what it means to Africa. I thing though, because it is that feeling You have never hidden your desire fell in love with Africa that day. And of that helps give adrenaline and helps to stage the FIFA World Cup in course I promised myself that I would come back one day. Of course my work took me back many times after that and I became convinced that the footballing world had to give something back to this continent which has already provided so many talented players for the leagues in wealthier countries. When I fi rst ran for the FIFA presidency, I therefore made it a central part of my manifesto that the FIFA World Cup should fi nally come to Africa.

There was a lot of scepticism when you first said that… Yes, particularly in the media which still seems focused on age-old prejudices about Africa and its supposed lack of organisation. But it was not just the media. Even in the FIFA Executive Committee at that time, there were many who did not have full trust in

FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter follows some traditional South African dancers along the red carpet in Cape Town ahead of December’s Final Draw for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™.

16 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Africa. Perhaps it is true that other areas of the world could organise a FIFA World Cup more easily, but our game is the world game and it should be possible to play that game at the highest level in every corner of the world. And when we talk about an African World Cup, it is no longer just a question of stadiums or ticket sales. It is about the social and cultural aspect, about the biggest sports family in the world recognising this continent and saying we are proud to go to South Africa. I want football to be a vital part of every country’s social and cultural life – not just in wealthy nations The FIFA President greets stadium workers in Durban during a November 2007 but also in those countries where there inspection visit. is widespread illness, poverty or illiteracy. fans of football, I will naturally be hoping So whoever does end up lifting But how much can football, or even to see attractive, exciting matches in the trophy on 11 July, what would a tournament as big as the FIFA which the world’s most talented players make you a happy man when World Cup, really have an impact on can show off their skills in front of a Africa’s first FIFA World Cup comes such massive global problems? new audience. The tournament will be to an end? I have never said that FIFA or even taking place in the South African winter, Just being in South Africa with the football in general can eradicate poverty which is fortunately not usually as harsh FIFA World Cup has already made me or cure terrible diseases, but our sport as a European winter, so we should have very happy. It is of course a pioneering can certainly play a signifi cant part in perfect temperatures for football. move to take the tournament to a how these problems are tackled. The continent which has never hosted an most important point to make is that And how important will it be to event of this size before. So in some we are not acting alone, that we are have a strong showing by the South ways the African dream will already in fact working in tandem with major African national team? have come true when the World Cup governments. Many countries have Well, I watched Bafana Bafana play in trophy is handed over to the winners made pledges running into billions of Germany recently, in a 0-0 draw with in Johannesburg. But of course it has dollars to support programmes such as Korea DPR, and they will obviously have to be more than that. This FIFA World the “1GOAL: Education for All” initiative to start scoring some goals if they are Cup has to be about the legacy that that I am now co-chairing with Queen going to do well at the tournament is left behind. Yes, there will be the Rania of Jordan. When you look at our itself. Their build-up to the competition stadiums, the roads, the airports and offi cial FIFA campaign, “20 Centres may not have been ideal, but of course all those other concrete investments for for 2010”, against the backdrop of the we all know that home advantage can the future. But what is more important challenges facing Africa, you could say work wonders – particularly in African is the activities we are carrying out for it is like a pilot project showing what countries. In Africa there is also a rare football development under our Win in can be achieved in Africa, and with such sense of shared continental identity, Africa with Africa initiative or for social impressive partners working alongside so I am sure the South Africans will development with our various Football us, it is a model that can now be be strongly supportive of all the other for Hope programmes and centres. adopted and spread much more widely African teams. I think many of us would Just bringing boys and girls together, around the continent. like to see an African team reach the organising schooling and health semi-fi nals for the fi rst time, and if so education, providing the tools and the Looking for a moment at the then why not the fi nal, but of course incentive to fi ght against poverty and sporting aspects of the FIFA World there are fewer African teams taking disease – that is the legacy we want to Cup, what are your hopes for what part than European teams and the leave. Our African dream has to carry happens on the pitch? Africans may also be tired from also on long after the tournament is over, so Well as soon as the fi rst whistle goes playing the Africa Cup of Nations at the that everything we have promised and on 11 June, that is something which of start of this year, so it will certainly not everything that the World Cup can bring course I cannot infl uence! But like all be easy for them. to Africa does in fact become a reality.

FIFA WORLD I NEWS 17 BUILDING SIGHTS

When FIFA awarded the 2010 FIFA World In a recent article on the World Cup year’s visitors, there is no shortage of Cup™ to South Africa six years ago, there preparations, Switzerland’s Tages-Anzeiger visual highlights among the other nine was many a cynic who claimed that the newspaper went so far as to liken the World Cup stadiums. The sleek curves of stadiums would never get built. Luckily, the building of Johannesburg’s Soccer City to Cape Town’s Green Point, the distinctive cynics were not the ones put in charge of the the creations of ancient Egypt. “Africa’s “petals” atop Nelson Mandela Bay or the building work...! As South Africa prepares constructors have not produced anything giraffe-inspired steel towers which adorn to host the fi rst-ever FIFA World Cup™ on like this since the pyramids,” the paper Nelspruit’s Mbombela Stadium are just a African soil, the tournament’s organisers gushed. “Eleven million bricks, 80,000 few of the treats awaiting the fans before have in fact surpassed all expectations, cubic metres of concrete along with 16,000 they have even stepped into the state-of- creating or in some cases rebuilding a total tonnes of steel – all brought together by the-art stadium interiors. For those who of ten World Cup stadiums, many of which 750 companies in the space of three years cannot wait for a glimpse, FIFA World takes are now considered to be among the fi nest to form a giant cooking pot or calabash.” a closer look at this year’s ten 2010 FIFA examples of football architecture to be While Soweto’s huge “melting pot”- World Cup stadiums and their nine proud found anywhere in the world. inspired structure will certainly wow this Host Cities…

Two stadium workers show their pride as construction of Johannesburg’s breathtaking Soccer City nears completion in September 2009.

18 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 JOHANNESBURG

Johannesburg, or the “City of Gold” as the country’s most popular football teams green and orientated towards outdoor it is known locally, is the business hub of – historical arch-rivals Kaizer Chiefs and living. It has a wealth of trees creating an South Africa, contributing approximately Orlando Pirates. South Africa’s largest “urban forest”, spread out across more 12% of the country’s GDP. It is also metropolis is also the only 2010 Host City than 2,000 individual parks. The city is considered the main economic engine for with two World Cup stadiums, Soweto’s also a national and international melting the entire Southern African region. Widely newly-rebuilt Soccer City and the legendary pot, laced with all the cultural fl avours of seen as South Africa’s “trendsetting” city, Ellis Park Stadium, which is more centrally Africa and beyond – a rich and exciting Johannesburg boasts a rich cultural and located. Despite the hustle and bustle of blend which has been refl ected in the sporting history, and is home to two of the big city, “Jo’burg” is unexpectedly design of Soccer City.

Soccer City south west and is only a short distance together to build the fi rst international One of the most artistic and awe- from one of the country’s football-crazy football stadium in the country and the inspiring football venues on the African townships, Soweto. About 40 per cent of construction was funded from the football continent, the newly-reconstructed Soccer Johannesburg’s population live in Soweto fraternity’s coffers. Soccer City hosted City Stadium will host the fi rst and fi nal and this proximity is bound to make the the fi rst mass rally of Nelson Mandela matches of the 2010 FIFA World Cup South stadium a hub of activity throughout the after his release from prison in 1990. Africa. The ground’s design is inspired 2010 fi nals. Thousands of mourners lamented Chris by the iconic African pot known as the The stadium is widely regarded as the Hani’s assassination at the stadium in 1993. calabash, and its aesthetic appeal will be heart of football in South Africa as it has It was also the venue for the 1996 CAF heightened when the stadium is lit at night. hosted many important matches through Africa Cup of Nations fi nal, in which South Soccer City is located in Johannesburg’s history. In the mid-1980s, offi cials came Africa triumphed 2-0 over Tunisia.

Ellis Park Stadium union stadium and will always occupy a Ellis Park Stadium is located in the centre special place in the hearts of the country’s of Johannesburg and has hosted many sporting fans after the South African epic sporting events including the fi nal rugby team shocked New Zealand to of the FIFA Confederations Cup 2009 lift the 1995 Rugby World Cup trophy between Brazil and the United States. soon after being allowed back on to the The ground was given a signifi cant face world sporting stage. It was a moment lift before the Confederations Cup fi nals that brought the people of South Africa and now seats just under 62,000 fans, together in celebration as the iconic increasing its capacity by almost nine scenes of Nelson Mandela holding aloft per cent from the previous 57,000. Ellis the trophy at Ellis Park were beamed Park was fi rst built in 1928 as a rugby around the world.

FIFA WORLD I NEWS 19 NELSPRUIT

Surrounded by some of the country’s place which the sun would not want to For those prepared to invest a little most spectacular game reserves and leave. The lookout point at God’s Window, more time, Nelspruit is also a good the famous Kruger National Park, offering almost unending views of rolling base for exploring the nearby Limpopo Nelspruit will offer 2010 FIFA World Cup mountains, or the Blyde River Canyon with Transfrontier Park, which incorporates visitors much more than just a base for its majestic contrast of green hills and blue the Kruger National Park (South Africa), world-class football. The capital of the rivers are just two beauty spots that may Limpopo National Park (Mozambique) Mpumalanga Province with a name which tempt even the most hardened football and Gonarezhou National Park in siSwati means “place where the sun fans away from the stadiums and fan (Zimbabwe). rises”, Nelspruit certainly seems like a zones for at least one afternoon.

Mbombela Stadium “many people together in a small space”. An entirely new structure built for the 2010 Fortunately for fans of Honduras, Chile, FIFA World Cup, the Mbombela Stadium Italy, New Zealand, Australia, Serbia, Korea pays tribute to the region’s safari heritage DPR and Côte d’Ivoire – all of whom are with the incorporation of some playful due to watch group stage matches here – giraffe-shaped towers whose orange the stadium itself boasts a spacious enough “necks” extend gracefully upwards toward 44,000 seats, leaving a wonderful sporting the heavens. legacy for the people of Mpumalanga The stadium takes its name from the Province. Before the stadium’s completion, siSwati language (one of 11 offi cial South Nelspruit had no football venue capable of African languages) and literally means hosting international matches. DURBAN

The largest city in KwaZulu-Natal Durban Stadium Province, the city of Durban, or Ethekwini, Durban’s newly-built stadium has an intense gusto for life and a diverse epitomises the architectural innovation range of cultures. The busiest port in that has gone into the creation of the Africa, Durban is the venue for one of the 2010 FIFA World Cup arenas and takes two semi-fi nals of the 2010 FIFA World its design inspiration from the South Cup and, with its mild winter climate, is African fl ag, with its grand 350-metre bound to be a tourist hot spot during the long arch representing the unity of tournament. this sport-loving nation. The two legs Visitors seeking an unusual means of of the arch on the southern side of transport around the city may like to try the stadium come together to form a rickshaw ride, a truly distinctive Durban a single footing on the northern side, experience with the drivers decorated in symbolising the new common purpose ornate headdresses. At the very heart of a once-divided country. of Durban is the “golden mile”, a four- The 70,000-seater has been kilometre stretch of beaches, promenades, specifi cally designed as a multi-purpose swimming pools and restaurants. The water venue complete with a cable car which is warmed by the Agulhas current and even ascends to a viewing platform located during winter, an average temperature of a breathtaking 106m above the pitch. around 15°C makes it ideal for year-round From this vantage point, visitors can swimming. experience spectacular panoramic views of the nearby shoreline and city and, if they dare, take the quick route down via an exhilarating rope swing from the arch.

20 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 NELSON MANDELA BAY/PORT ELIZABETH

Belonging to Nelson Mandela’s home the “Friendly City”, this thriving port city is a good place from which to discover province, Eastern Cape, and now bearing is surrounded by immaculate beaches the enchantments of the Eastern Cape. the name of the legendary statesman and boasts a rich timeline of impressive Five different ecosystems converge in the and South African icon, Nelson Mandela buildings dating back to the 19th century. province, making it a must for eco-tourists Bay/Port Elizabeth is one of the country’s As well as being an attraction in its own eager to sample South Africa’s diverse most popular destinations. Known as right, Nelson Mandela Bay/Port Elizabeth geography, fl ora and fauna.

Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium roof design, made up of a series of the fi rst football-dedicated ground to be Set on the shores of the city’s North End white “petals” which have already led built in either the city or its surrounding Lake, the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium is to the stadium being nicknamed “The areas. The Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium another building which instantly catches Sunfl ower”. will host a total of eight World Cup games the eye. As well as its scenic location, In keeping with the 2010 FIFA World including the match for third place and one the stadium stands out for its distinctive Cup’s emphasis on legacy, the stadium is of the four quarter-fi nals. MANGAUNG/BLOEMFONTEIN

At the heart of the Free State Province reputation, their friendship, warmth and Mangaung, the SeSotho language version and home to some of South Africa’s openness refl ecting the open feel of the of the city’s name, literally means “place of most fanatical football fans lies the city itself. the cheetahs”, while Bloemfontein means artistic city of Mangaung/Bloemfontein. Mangaung/Bloemfontein is the judicial “fountain of fl owers” in Dutch. The city has When not vociferously supporting their capital of South Africa, housing the a wealth of culture and history, refl ected chosen teams, the citizens of Mangaung/ country’s Appeals Court, and is also in its rich architectural heritage, numerous Bloemfontein have an otherwise laid-back the capital of the Free State Province. museums and monuments.

Free State Stadium the setting for the USA’s shock semi-fi nal As home to some of the country’s most defeat of European champions Spain. fanatical groups of supporters, the Free With its capacity now increased from State Stadium is likely to be one of the 38,000 to 45,000, the Free State Stadium most atmospheric venues during the 2010 is establishing itself as one of South Africa’s FIFA World Cup. Originally built in 1952, leading sporting venues, helped by the recent primarily as a rugby venue, the stadium was emergence of local side Bloemfontein Celtic, given a major overhaul in time for the FIFA who achieved a sixth-place fi nish in South Confederations Cup 2009 when it provided Africa’s Premier Soccer League last season.

FIFA WORLD I NEWS 21 TSHWANE/PRETORIA

Though not as well known internationally inaugurations of Nelson Mandela, Thabo from being a colourless city of bureaucrats. as the likes of Johannesburg, Durban or Mbeki and the incumbent South African Certainly the city boasts a myriad of Cape Town, Tshwane/Pretoria is justifi ably president, Jacob Zuma. For tourists, these museums and monuments, but these are proud of its status as South Africa’s executive sandstone buildings also happen to offer punctuated by contemporary arts and craft capital. The Union Buildings are the seat of beautiful views over the city. markets and lively arts centres, bringing the country’s government and have also Despite its importance when it comes Tshwane/Pretoria alive with a unique blend provided the setting for the presidential to matters of state, Tshwane/Pretoria is far of new and old.

Loftus Versfeld Stadium Renamed after local sports Situated in the heart of Tshwane/Pretoria, organiser Robert Owen Loftus Loftus Versfeld stadium is one of the oldest Versfeld, following his death in sports structures in South Africa, with a 1932, the stadium has staged long history of hosting major events and numerous important games, sporting contests. Sport has been played including matches for the 1995 on the site since 1903 when the ground Rugby World Cup and 1996 was simply known as the Eastern Sports Africa Cup of Nations, as well Ground. The fi rst concrete structure for as putting on concerts for fans was built 20 years later with many international music stars such as Robbie where the national team Bafana Bafana regular upgrades following since, including Williams, UB40 and Celine Dion. Loftus achieved their fi rst-ever victory over a the latest renovation work carried out for Versfeld also occupies an important place European team, beating Sweden 1-0 here the 2010 FIFA World Cup. in South African football history, as the site in 1999. RUSTENBURG

Located in South Africa’s North West Royal Bafokeng Stadium Confederations Cup, most memorably when Province, and in the heart of the savannah Named after Rustenburg’s wealthy native it staged the dramatic third-place play-off bushveld, Rustenburg nestles at the tribe, the Royal Bafokeng stadium was built match, in which European champions Spain foothills of the breathtaking Magaliesburg in 1999, receiving an upgrade in time for the narrowly edged the South African national Mountains. The highest point in this 2010 FIFA World Cup which has taken its team Bafana Bafana 3-2 after extra time. mountain range is 1,852m above sea level, capacity up to almost 45,000. The stadium The stadium is conveniently located making it a natural tactical vantage point has hosted many Premier Soccer League near a number of population centres, 12 for the various battles for land fought games, even though Rustenburg does not kilometres from the centre of Rustenburg, across the region during the early 1800s. have its own Premier League side. The a 25-minute drive away from Sun City and Home to one of the country’s richest stadium was also used for last year’s FIFA a half-hour drive from Pilansberg. tribes, the Bafokeng Nation, the surrounding region is rich in mineral wealth and boasts the most platinum mined in the world. It also has a strong voortrekker (Dutch farming settlers) infl uence, and it was the settlers who fi rst named the city Rustenburg, meaning “place of rest”. Even today the restful connotations remain, since Rustenburg is just 30 kilometres from Sun City, one of Africa’s premier holiday resorts with an array of attractions, including casinos, four hotels, two golf courses designed by Gary Player, a 25-hectare jungle and the Valley of the Waves waterpark.

22 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 CAPE TOWN

One would be hard pressed to fi nd a as far as 200km out to sea and has long base at Simon’s Town has a fascinating past. reason not to fall in love with Cape Town, served as a navigation point for mariners. The Victoria and Alfred (V&A) Waterfront is one of South Africa’s most iconic cities. It The “Mother City”, as Cape Town is a great location for shopping, while a more has one of the most idyllic settings – nestled known in South Africa, offers an abundance sobering experience can be had by taking between the ocean and breathtaking of contrasting activities from lounging on the short boat ride over to the infamous mountains, the most famous of which is the Atlantic seaboard’s popular beaches to former prison on Robben Island, where the awe-inspiring Table Mountain whose exploring the vividly painted area of the Bo- Nelson Mandela and his fellow political fl at top lies 1,086 metres above the city. Kaap. Hout Bay is a hub for fi shing, especially prisoners were incarcerated during the On a clear day the landmark can be seen tuna and crayfi sh, and the historical naval apartheid regime.

Green Point Stadium One of the most artistic 2010 FIFA World Cup venues, the newly-built Green Point Stadium is situated in one of the most sought-after areas in the city of Cape Town. Tickets for games here will also be much sought-after, particularly during the tournament’s closing stages when the Green Point Stadium is due to host one of the two semi-fi nal matches. This multi-purpose venue will also be used to stage major events and concerts. Fans will be a stone’s throw from the ocean and the mountains of Cape Town will provide a stunning backdrop to the football. The location is ideal as it is a short walk from the transportation hub of the city. POLOKWANE

A vibrant, busy and colourful Zimbabwe and Mozambique), the city numerous tribes and civilisations come wonderland in a sea of grass, surrounded boasts a remarkable social diversity, as and go from the arrival of the fi rst Stone by scenic mountains, Polokwane is no less well as being an economic and cultural Age nomads and Iron Age settlers through varied when it comes to its local residents. hub and a major centre for regional to the more recent European migrations. Situated at the centre of the Limpopo investment. It is also the land of the biggest tree in Province and surrounded by three of The surrounding area is steeped in Africa, the “upside down” Adansonia, South Africa’s neighbours (Botswana, history and mythology, having seen better known locally as the “baobab”.

Peter Mokaba Stadium new structure, built next to the old Peter Named after one of the renowned Mokaba Stadium, the ground offers champions of South Africa’s struggle seating for just over 45,000. against the apartheid regime, the Peter Current African Player of the Year Didier Mokaba Stadium takes its design inspiration Drogba has fond memories of the old from the iconic local “baobab” tree (see stadium, having made his international above), with the steel structure supporting debut at the ground in a 2002 Africa Cup the roof plane gathered together at each of Nations qualifi er, with his Côte d’Ivoire corner of the stadium and supported by side going on to win the game against giant “trunk” structures. A completely South Africa 2-1.

FIFA WORLD I NEWS 23

THE “ELEVENTH STADIUM” South Africa’s ten FIFA World Cup™ stadiums are not the only place where fans can gather in their thousands to enjoy the live match experience. Once again FIFA Fan Fests™ will provide a festive meeting point for ticketless supporters – and, for the fi rst time, not just in the host country.

From Table Mountain to the Copacabana Harbour. “There will be no better place Berlin’s Olympischer Platz and Strasse des 17. in Brazil, from Durban Beach to the Eiffel to celebrate the world game,” Keneally Juni, the Jardins du Trocadéro in Paris and Rio Tower in Paris and from Soweto to the insisted. “With the spectacular Sydney de Janeiro’s legendary Copacabana Beach. Sydney Harbour Bridge – more fans than Harbour as a backdrop, our culturally “We are delighted to participate in ever, in more countries than ever, will have diverse city will ensure residents and visitors the International FIFA Fan Fest, which access to the FIFA Fan Fest™ experience. experience all the fun and excitement of will be a great opportunity to start our Born among the spontaneous mass street the 2010 FIFA World Cup taking place in countdown to the 2014 FIFA World Cup parties that took place around giant screens South Africa.” in Brazil,” said Rio’s secretary of tourism when the 2002 FIFA World Cup™ was co- Still, Sydney will face strong competition Antonio Pedro Figueira de Mello. “We are hosted by Korea Republic and Japan, and from its South African and international welcoming everyone to cheer with us at growing up four years later in the organised rivals, who have also chosen a host of the Copacabana Beach – especially those FIFA Fan Fests of the 2006 FIFA World Cup™, stunning locations, from Durban’s New who might want to root for the Brazilian the phenomenon will now reach adulthood Beach and Cape Town’s Grand Parade to team!” in 2010 as the party zones spread beyond South Africa to the watching world. As well as taking place in South Africa’s nine Host Cities, this new “globalised” approach will see International FIFA Fan Fests welcoming crowds at iconic locations around the world. Berlin, Mexico City, Paris, Rome, Rio de Janeiro and Sydney are the six cities partnering FIFA in this exciting next step. “We are aiming to keep the success of these events alive by bringing fans together in even greater numbers,” FIFA Director of Marketing Thierry Weil told FIFA World, “and not only in the host country’s cities but in major cities throughout the world.”

Spectacular settings “As the undisputed football capital of Australia, Sydney is honoured to be selected as an International FIFA Fan Fest City,” Kristina Keneally, State Premier of New South Wales told FIFA World, as the city put the fi nishing touches on a spectacular viewing area which includes a giant screen and stage fl oating on the water of Darling An artist’s impression of how the festivities will look in Sydney.

FIFA WORLD I NEWS 25 Match Schedule 2010 FIFA WORLD CUP SOUTH AFRICATM

Group matches Friday 11 June Saturday 12 June Sunday 13 June Monday 14 June Tuesday 15 June Wednesday 16 June Thursday 17 June Friday 18 June Saturday 19 June Sunday 20 June Monday 21 June Tuesday 22 June Wednesday 23 June Thursday 24 June Friday 25 June

1 16.00 9 13.30 20 13.30 29 20.30 39 20.30 Johannesburg RSA NED ARG BRA GHA v. v. v. v. v. Soccer City MEX DEN KOR CIV GER

3 16.00 14 20.30 22 16.00 32 20.30 41 16.00 Johannesburg ARG BRA SVN ESP SVK v. v. v. v. v. Ellis Park NGA PRK USA HON ITA

15 13.30 28 16.00 40 20.30 46 16.00 Nelspruit HON ITA AUS PRK v. v. v. v. Mbombela CHI NZL SRB CIV

Rustenburg 5 20.30 12 13.30 24 16.00 33 16.00 43 20.30 ENG NZL GHA MEX DEN v. v. v. v. v. Royal Bafokeng USA SVK AUS URU JPN

Mangaung/ 10 16.00 19 16.00 27 13.30 34 16.00 48 20.30 JPN GRE SVK FRA SUI Bloemfontein v. v. v. v. v. Free State CMR NGA PAR RSA HON

2 20.30 11 20.30 23 20.30 30 13.30 44 20.30 Cape Town URU ITA ENG POR CMR v. v. v. v. v. Green Point FRA PAR ALG PRK NED

7 20.30 16 16.00 25 13.30 35 20.30 45 16.00 Durban GER ESP NED NGA POR v. v. v. v. v. Durban AUS SUI JPN KOR BRA

6 13.30 18 20.30 36 20.30 42 16.00 Polokwane ALG FRA GRE PAR v. v. v. v. Peter Mokaba SVN MEX ARG NZL

Nelson Mandela 4 13.30 13 16.00 21 13.30 31 16.00 37 16.00 KOR CIV GER CHI SVN Bay/Port Elizabeth v. v. v. v. v. Nelson Mandela Bay GRE POR SRB SUI ENG

8 16.00 17 20.30 26 20.30 38 16.00 47 20.30 Tshwane/Pretoria SRB RSA CMR USA CHI v. v. v. v. v. Loftus Versfeld GHA URU DEN ALG ESP

GROUP A GROUP B GROUP C GROUP D

1 South Africa 1 Argentina 1 England 1 Germany

2 Mexico 2 Nigeria 2 USA 2 Australia

3 Uruguay 3 Korea Republic 3 Algeria 3 Serbia

4 France 4 Greece 4 Slovenia 4 Ghana

26 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 3rd / 4th place Round of 16 Quarter-finals Semi-finals and final Saturday 26 June Sunday 27 June Monday 28 June Tuesday 29 June Wednesday 30 June Thursday 1 July Friday 2 July Saturday 3 July Sunday 4 July Monday 5 July Tuesday 6 July Wednesday 7 July Thursday 8 July Friday 9 July Saturday 10 July Sunday 11 July

52 20.30 58 20.30 64 20.30 1B 1 Winner I v. v. v. 2A(2) 3 (A) Winner II

54 20.30 60 20.30 1G 6 v. v. 2H (7) 8 (D)

50 20.30 1C v. 2D (3)

51 16.00 1D v. ays ays ays 2C (4) d d d

56 20.30 59 16.00 61 20.30 1H 2 A v. v. v. 2G (8) 4 (B) C (I) Rest Rest Rest 53 16.00 62 20.30 1E B v. v. 2F(5) D (II)

49 16.00 57 16.00 63 20.30 1A 5 Loser I v. v. v. 2B (1) 7 (C) Loser II

55 16.00 1F v. 2E (6)

GROUP E GROUP F GROUP G GROUP H

1 Netherlands 1 Italy 1 Brazil 1 Spain

2 Denmark 2 Paraguay 2 Korea DPR 2 Switzerland

3 Japan 3 New Zealand 3 Côte d’Ivoire 3 Honduras

4 Cameroon 4 Slovakia 4 Portugal 4 Chile

FIFA WORLD I NEWS 27 CENTRES OF HOPE Already being realised in South Africa, the Offi cial Campaign of the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ is designed to leave an African legacy that extends beyond the host country and far beyond football. By Mike Geddes, Johannesburg

The fi rst centre opened its doors in December 2009.

Launched in 2007, FIFA’s 20 Centres for “The children are always eager to be local stakeholders – in other words it is a 2010 project will create 20 community involved, and many of them come from real partnership. This extends even to the centres across Africa, specialising in the a long way off to participate in the construction of the centres, which is being provision of public health and education programme, primarily because it is fun and supported by new FIFA World Cup Sponsor services along with football facilities. The entertaining,” explains Grassroot Soccer Yingli Solar, who will supply solar panel simple but effective concept is that football founder Kirk Friedrich. “The educational roofs. The process is being supervised by can be used as a magnet for young people element is integrated in a way that adds FIFA and streetfootballworld in collaboration who then receive potentially life-changing value to the programme rather than taking with local and international architects lessons once they start to use the centres. it away.” and the whole construction of a centre, Based upon the success of similar Work is already under way on the next including securing the land, engaging the schemes operated by other organisations six Football for Hope Centres in Ghana, community, developing the designs, tailoring in the Football for Hope movement, the Kenya, Lesotho, Namibia, Mali and Rwanda programmes and setting up the centre centres offer a physical location where the and a further centre for South Africa is management, takes approximately one year. movement’s ideas can take root. planned in Alexandra, the host community “We always involve the local NGOs that The fi rst of the 20 centres opened its doors of the Football for Hope Festival 2010 (see will manage the centres in the design and in December 2009, aptly in South Africa, in article on page 30). The locations of the construction process, together with the the township of Khayelitsha near Cape Town. centres are determined by identifying local community, to ensure ownership and The centre is hosted by Grassroot Soccer, a challenges and local organisations that are responsibility – two factors that are vital South Africa-based, non-profi t organisation using football for social development. The for the long-term success of the centres, that integrates football with HIV prevention decision on the location of the centres also which is ultimately what 20 Centres for and life skills programmes that give African depends on support by the community, 2010 is all about, providing a lasting youngsters the knowledge, skills and support the football assocation, the municipal and legacy,” says FIFA’s Head of Corporate they need to remain HIV-free. provincial governments and other relevant Social Responsibility Federico Addiechi.

28 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 FIRST EIGHT How the fi rst eight Football for Hope Centres are shaping up

Baguinéda Football for Hope Centre – Bamako, Mali The Football for Hope Centre in Mali will be situated in the rural area of Baguinéda, 35km from the capital, Bamako. The Centre Host is Association Malienne pour la Promotion de la Jeune Fille et de la Femme (AMPJF), an organisation that provides young women with football, educational and entrepreneurship programmes. The centre will provide literacy Mathare Football for Hope Centre – programmes, vocational training, re-insertion of school drop-outs, reproductive health Nairobi, Kenya education as well as HIV prevention. The opening is scheduled for July 2010. Located in Nairobi’s Mathare slum, the centre is hosted by Mathare Youth Sports Association (MYSA), one of the biggest community organisations in Africa and a pioneer in development through football. A staggering unemployment rate of 42% and the resulting challenges that this creates are the biggest issues affecting the community. The Football for Hope Centre will provide an HIV testing and counselling centre, a library and IT courses. The opening is scheduled for June 2010.

Kimisagara Football for Hope Centre – Kigali, Rwanda In the search for justice and peaceful coexistence, centre host Espérance seeks to fi ght the ethnic Oguaa Football for Hope Centre – divide of the Rwandan population Cape Coast, Ghana through education and social Hosted by Play Soccer Ghana, the Oguaa Football programmes. The organisation has for Hope Centre will target both school and been working in the Kimisagara streetchildren with its educational programmes. community for several years and Activities at the centre will revolve around the Play provides opportunities for the Soccer curriculum, which combines football drills large number of out-of-school with messages about health and hygiene, values children. Activities at the Football and important life skills. The city of Cape Coast, or for Hope Centre will include their Oguaa in the local language, has a long tradition in Football for Peace programme, both football and education, with the country’s fi rst a football theatre programme, offi cial football team and the fi rst secondary school language courses and HIV/Aids established in the town (see May issue of FIFA World). counselling. The opening is The opening is scheduled for December 2010. scheduled for December 2010.

Katutura Football for Hope Centre – Windhoek, Namibia Football for Hope Centre – Mokopane, Mogalakwena, This Football for Hope Centre will be built in a township Limpopo, South Africa – from mid-late 2011 of Windhoek which is heavily affected by poverty and The Football for Hope Centre will be run and managed by illnesses such as HIV/Aids, malaria and tuberculosis. Centre the South African Red Cross Society (SARCS) offering football host Special Olympics Namibia has been supporting people activities combined with health, counselling and testing, fi rst with intellectual disabilities through sports programmes aid, care, life skills, and peer education. since 1998. People with special needs face particularly diffi cult challenges in Namibia and through the Football for Hope Centre Special Olympics will reduce stigmatism Lesotho Football for Hope Centre – Maseru, Lesotho and promote the full integration of their participants in Since 2005, Kick4Life has delivered a health education, HIV society. The opening is scheduled for July 2010. testing and life-skills programme in Lesotho, a country with the world’s third-highest prevalence of HIV infection and extremely high levels of poverty. The Lesotho Football for Hope Centre Khayelitsha Football for Hope Centre – Cape Town, South Africa will be built in the capital Maseru and will provide a wide range The fi rst Football for Hope Centre was opened in December 2009 in of opportunities for young people from all over the country. Khayelitsha, the fastest-growing township in South Africa, located outside Planning of the centre began in March 2010 and the opening Cape Town. The centre host is Grassroot Soccer, an organisation that is scheduled for March 2011. integrates football with HIV prevention and life skills programmes (see January/February issue of FIFA World).

FIFA WORLD I NEWS 29 ALL EYES ON ALEXANDRA

Lionel Messi, Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo are not the only superstars getting ready to perform in South Africa. The Football for Hope Festival 2010 will The Football for Hope Festival is open to bring together young people from around everyone and entrance is free – all day from 4 July to 10 July! Come on down to the world who are improving their No. 3 Square in Alexandra to share the communities using the power of football. excitement! A park and ride service is available from the Altrec Stadium. By Mike Geddes and Thabo Sephuma

The 20 Football for Hope Centres currently areas benefi t from the programmes The festival will culminate in an exciting, being provided for Africa are intended to on offer. At the end of June, though, mixed-gender football tournament being leave a physical legacy for the continent, the emphasis will be purely on fun, as played from 4-10 July in a stadium specially built upon the success of the 2010 FIFA 32 delegations from disadvantaged constructed for the event. And just as World Cup South Africa™ (see previous communities around the world travel Bafana Bafana will be carrying home hopes article). The overall Football for Hope to the Johannesburg township of at the real FIFA World Cup, so too will a movement is a much more global concept Alexandra for the inaugural Football for local team be providing plenty of cheer in however, bringing together more than Hope Festival. Marking the fi rst time Alexandra. “Team Alexandra” is made up 80 social development programmes in that such an event has been included in of boys and girls from the host community, over 50 countries under the umbrella of the offi cial programme of a FIFA World all of whom work as young volunteers for FIFA and its social development partners Cup™, the festival will welcome boys Play Soccer, a project which uses football streetfootballworld. and girls from organisations tackling to teach life skills and health education. For most of the year, the movement social issues as varied as homelessness To get an understanding of what the exists to help its members pool ideas and in the UK, landmines in Cambodia, HIV/ festival means to these youngsters, FIFA experiences with the aim of helping more Aids education in South Africa or the World spoke to the team’s coach Sello and more people in socially deprived integration of refugees in Australia. Mahlangu.

30 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Q+A

talent in Alexandra, but unfortunately of this team. Thanks to Football for Hope most kids drop out from playing football for giving the young people of Alex an because there are limited opportunities. opportunity to shine.

How do you feel about taking part in How do you think this experience the Football for Hope Festival 2010? will help you after the festival has It’s a great opportunity for me to be part finished? of this historic event and I’m extremely Being part of Team Alexandra has excited to be a part of it. It’s a once-in-a- already changed my life, and that of the lifetime opportunity for me to empower whole team, for the better. I now look at myself and learn more about other life with a positive attitude and I hope to cultures. Alexandra has fi nally caught the share this experience with my peers after eye of the world! the World Cup. SELLO MAHLANGU I think that by the end of the festival TEAM ALEXANDRA COACH Why is it important to you to I will have learned to be tolerant and be seen as a role model in your to love others, to have learned some community? coaching and life skills which we can FIFA World: What does football First and foremost, this World Cup isn’t then give back to the community. mean to the community of just about the big stars, but also about There are many young people who are Alexandra? bringing hope, change and opportunities doing bad things here in Alexandra and Sello Mahlangu: You know, I love, live to communities like Alexandra. It’s very I thank God that I am not one of them. and breathe football. It’s an integral important for kids from “Alex” to see Without football I think I would be one part of life for me and my community that, even if you come from a poor of those kids who is mixed up in crime. and this township has produced some background, if you work hard and stay After the festival I want to continue to great players like (former South Africa out of trouble, you can make it too. help young people through education internationals) Brian Baloyi, Shakes Already I am having an impact with kids and soccer, to take kids away from the Kungwane and Maimane Phiri to in my area because they know I am part streets and to change lives. mention just a few. There is a lot of

Alexandra’s No. 3 Square recreation ground will provide the setting for the inaugural Football for Hope Festival.

FIFA WORLD I NEWS 31 INTERVIEW WITH WILLI LEMKE “A HUGE SENSE OF UNITY”

The United Nations established the Millennium Development Goals in 2000, calling upon member associations to act in a spirit of solidarity. Sport is playing an increasingly important role, however, and the FIFA World Cup™ is at the forefront as football now has a cultural, economic, political and social dimension and is closely linked to the United Nations’ development work. Interview by Alexander Koch, Bremen

Willi Lemke has been the Special Adviser to the UN Secretary-General on Sport for Development and Peace since 2008, but before that he was the general manager of Werder Bremen for nearly 20 years so he certainly knows his way around the game as well as just how important football is to modern society. As part of his role with the UN, Lemke was specifi cally asked to focus on the African continent and to support the projects that can use sport to help the UN reach their Millennium Development Goals. With the FIFA World Cup – the world’s biggest single-sport event – now just around the corner, FIFA World asked Lemke how important the tournament will be for the United Nations and their worldwide development work.

32 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 FIFA World: What does the FIFA First and foremost, South Africa has has the perfect opportunity to show the World Cup mean to Africa? been in the glare of the world’s media world its beauty, its animal world, its Willi Lemke: The World Cup is a great for many months already. Every single culture, its diversity and its happy people. opportunity, not just for South Africa, but report – whether positive or negative South Africa can be a beacon of hope for the entire continent. I have travelled – has been down to the FIFA World for Africa. That is why it is so important extensively around Africa, and I have seen Cup. South Africa has to use this unique that this World Cup is a success. Positive just how important the World Cup and communication platform. It is far from reports can give the continent more football is to the people there. You can see being a united country, a country that impetus and confi dence, which in turn just how proud these people are that the has grown together. There are 11 will help development work. World Cup is taking place on their offi cial languages, countless dialects continent. Football brings people and many ethnic groups that have been Can you be more specific? together, not just within a country, but arbitrarily separated or thrown together There are already many projects and across borders. So, for example, everyone by colonial decisions. Forty-six terrible organisations that use sport to drive social on that continent will see themselves as years of apartheid also split the country development. FIFA, with the Football for Africans during this World Cup. There will and created divides that are only healing Hope movement, brings together and be incredible solidarity, and there will be a slowly. Sport, however, can bring these supports projects in which football has a chance for the many ethnic groups in people together. I would hope that role to play. I hope that with the World various countries to grow closer together. the FIFA World Cup can make a huge Cup coming up, the focus of the world’s Solidarity between countries will also contribution in terms of nation-building. media will fall on these projects and on improve. the social aspect of football, which will And how will other African countries result in development work receiving Could you give us any examples? benefit from the World Cup? more attention and support thanks to Yes, take last year’s FIFA U-20 World Cup If the World Cup is a success, it will football. I would therefore encourage all in Egypt, when I happened to be in convince many other African countries representatives of the media to pay a visit Nigeria. As soon as the fi nal between that they too can do great things. A to the Football for Hope Festival in the last Ghana and Brazil started, everything successful World Cup could also give the week of the World Cup in Johannesburg. ground to a halt. And when Ghana won entire continent a huge lift and If they do, they will hear stories that will on penalties, people ran out into the encourage it to once again try and be at least as moving as any of their streets and everyone started hugging attract more investors and tourists. But team’s victories at the World Cup. each other. Everyone was happy that an this would also have the opposite effect African team had won. Only sport – and if the World Cup – for whatever reason And what would you like to see football in particular – can arouse such – were not a success, which is why it is from FIFA in the future? emotions. And then there is the example all the more important that no stone is Football is the only language in the of Côte d’Ivoire. At the height of the civil left unturned to make sure that it is. world that can arouse such emotions and war, someone had the wonderful idea of bring people together. I would like to see organising an international match against What kind of effect can the FIFA FIFA continue to accept its responsibility Madagascar in Bouaké, the area of the World Cup have on development to society, which it does so well at the worst unrest. All of a sudden, everyone work? moment, and to continue to help the came together under the national fl ag, Successful development work is based United Nations reach the Millennium sang the national anthem and forgot their on many things, including commitment, Development Goals in the next few differences, if only for a moment. But we hope and trust. If you are optimistic years. I would be delighted if more and can also look closer to home for other about the future, you are more likely to more associations and clubs followed examples. In Germany, the World Cup be committed and ready to invest, but if this positive example and took an even saw people rejoice in singing the national you are pessimistic, you are more likely to greater interest in the social aspect of the anthem, and thousands upon thousands withdraw and lose investment. That has game. I am a fi rm believer that sport can of people fl ew the national fl ag on their long been a problem in Africa, and when do so much in terms of development. cars. Politics would never have been able the media focus on scandals and other And if we can successfully harness the to do that so easily. I am expecting problems in their reports, that only serves emotions and energy created by football something similar in South Africa. Football to make the vicious circle even bigger. for our development work, and if we can can create a huge sense of unity. This is a continent that has so much to draw the media’s attention to our work offer. It is incredibly important that Africa as well, the relationship between the How important is the FIFA World manages to get people talking about United Nations and FIFA will continue to Cup to South Africa in particular? the positive side for once. South Africa be a success.

FIFA WORLD I NEWS 33 Young participants in a FIFA Grassroots festival in Namibia. A HUGE STEP FORWARD

The 2010 FIFA World Cup™ in South Last March, the Goal Bureau approved funding for four new artifi cial pitches in Africa, the fi rst to be held on the Africa (in Congo DR, Eritrea, Gambia and African continent, will undoubtedly be Sierra Leone), taking the number of such one of the greatest sports events the pitches built throughout Africa between world has ever seen. What is more, 2006 and 2010 to 77. This increase in the event has placed the focus fi rmly the availability of good-quality pitches in Africa is essential, particularly for on football development in Africa over the development of young players and the last four years, thanks to a number national teams, but it is not enough on of far-reaching programmes. its own. FIFA’s development programmes

34 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 in Africa therefore extend to providing Thanks to these initiatives, Tanzania and the 53 African member associations. further infrastructure and delivering new has benefited from no fewer than Football development also includes knowledge and skills to African football. seven courses over the last 40 years – fi nancial support from FIFA. Through its Infrastructure is vital to football on top of the regional seminars that TFF Financial Assistance Programme, FIFA development because without football staff have been able to attend and the invested USD 53 million in Africa between pitches, national technical centres and professionalisation activities undertaken 2006 and 2010, encompassing training association headquarters, the game cannot since 2009. Coaching, refereeing, club and prevention programmes in the area be organised and run in accordance with management, administrative reforms of sports medicine, training sessions for best practices. That is why the Goal and women’s football are just some of representatives of African media – both Programme has been so successful in the focal points of FIFA’s technical and television and press – and partnerships Africa since its launch in 1999. Fifty-two development programmes. “These courses with universities. The initiatives also include African member associations have already have a huge impact, for while it may be those aimed at increasing participation and been allocated a project, 38 can boast two the case that only 30 or so coaches and the standard of the youngest players, who projects, and a further 24 have received a referees attend these three or four days form the base of the football pyramid, third. Indeed, in March 2010, Congo DR of training, they do not hide in a corner. such as the FIFA Grassroots Programme, became the fi rst association to be awarded They communicate the knowledge they targeted at children aged between six a fourth project. have acquired, even if only by example!” and 12 and already a success in Namibia The overwhelming majority of African explains Tenga. Recently, Tanzania became and South Africa, and the Goal Football associations now have the necessary one of the fi rst African countries to benefi t projects, which prepare talented young infrastructure for their development, and from the new FIFA Member Association players aged between 15 and 18 for under- thanks to this progress FIFA has been Professionalisation Programme, as part age national teams and the elite level. able to fund the installation of a player of which an analysis of the association’s All of these programmes and activities registration system over the last few years. organisational structures was carried out. have a common goal – to fundamentally This system is a crucial step en route to This phase of the programme culminates improve all aspects of African football in the professionalising football, particularly at in organisational recommendations that long term. Everyone, including President national league level. Tanzania is one of should enable the association to streamline Tenga, is working towards the future. He the countries which has recently begun its operations and fundamentally improve says: “We still have a lot of work to do. using the system, thus adding another its structures and processes. At present, Here in Tanzania, we have about 200,000 facility to those already installed by FIFA (a 14 African countries are involved in this players, but in reality there are several technical centre and three artifi cial pitches). groundbreaking programme. million playing around the country. We Leodegar Tenga, President of the Tanzania These aspects of football development have to be in a position to welcome them Football Federation (TFF), is delighted: “This in Africa offer just a glimpse of the long- all, teach them, and make sure that the is a huge step towards professionalisation. term work being carried out by FIFA, CAF most talented are not lost to the game.” Even if you have all the will in the world, you can only progress to a certain limit without the necessary facilities. Now that we have all the facilities, football can only continue to grow.”

A tremendous achievement In addition to providing tangible football development facilities, FIFA also contributes intangible resources to boost African football. For example, Africa was the recipient of the very fi rst course in the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Development Programme in 1976. More than 30 years later, the objective remains the same: to equip FIFA’s members with technical and administrative know-how. Only now the volume is far greater. Today in Africa, FIFA organises as many courses in a single year as it organised in a decade 20 years ago. Win in Africa with Africa football turf pitch in Dar Es Salaam (Tanzania).

FIFA WORLD I NEWS 35 20876FIFA NPSD Press210X268Vec.eps 1 21.12.2009 16:15:19 WHAT EVERY PLAYER WANTS When the whistle blows for the opening game of the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ on 11 June, every player will be holding onto the same dream of being back in Johannesburg one month later to hold aloft a certain 36cm tall, 6.175kg statuette made of pure, 18-carat gold. Meet the FIFA World Cup Trophy…

© 1974 FIFA TM

Not many sporting trophies are ever likened to the Mona Lisa, but in a recent interview with the French sports daily, L’Équipe, an appraiser for the French auction house PIASA made exactly that comparison between Leonardo Da Vinci’s world-famous masterpiece and world football’s most prestigious trophy. trophy, this statuette depicting the Greek Offi cially renamed as the Jules Rimet Cup “Because (the trophy) is unique and goddess of victory was created by French in 1946 in honour of the FIFA President because FIFA would never sell it, its price sculptor Abel Lafleur. Crafted out of who had initiated the FIFA World Cup, the is inestimable, a little like La Joconde,” sterling silver and gold plate, it was one original trophy came through a number of Henri-Pierre Teissèdre told the newspaper. centimetre shorter than the current version adventures, starting with the Second World No doubt, many of the world’s top and weighed around 3.8kg. War when Dr Ottorino Barassi, the Italian footballers would also rather have the FIFA Vice-President of FIFA, hid it in a shoebox World Cup Trophy in their possession than “I had it in my mind to under his bed to keep it out of the hands Da Vinci’s legendary lady – not bad going of occupying troops. for a trophy that was fi rst unveiled less than create something that Then in 1966, the cup disappeared while 40 years ago when German captain Franz symbolised effort and on display as part of the build-up to the Beckenbauer had the pleasure of lifting it FIFA World Cup in England and was only at the end of the 1974 FIFA World Cup™. exertion, while at the recovered, buried under a tree, by a little Of course the FIFA World Cup™ same time expressing dog called Pickles. Four years later the tournament has a much longer history, original trophy headed off for what should having started with the fi rst edition in harmony, simplicity and have been a peaceful retirement after Brazil Uruguay in 1930. Back then, however, a peace.” celebrated lifting the famous prize for the different World Cup trophy was in use. FIFA World Cup Trophy designer third time in their history. According to the Widely known now as the Jules Rimet Silvio Gazzaniga regulations of the time, the fi rst team

FIFA WORLD I NEWS 37 to win the competition three times was recalled locking himself away in his studio future in 2038, however. That is the year entitled to keep the trophy on a permanent near La Scala for a week to draw up his in which the space available on the base basis. fi rst outlines. for inscribing the name of each edition’s Unfortunately for the original trophy, “My inspiration for the design came winning team is due to be taken up. its story does not end there. In 1983 it from two basic elements – the athlete and It is a tribute to Gazzaniga’s design was stolen by thieves while on display the world,” Gazzaniga told FIFA Magazine that the trophy is expected to retain its at the Brazilian Football Confederation’s in 2002. “I had it in my mind to create mystique well beyond 2038. Whether it headquarters in Rio de Janeiro. Never seen something that symbolised effort and will endure as long as Mona Lisa’s smile again, it is believed that the prize was exertion, while at the same time expressing is another question, and one which its melted down – a sad demise for what was harmony, simplicity and peace.” creator treats with gentle scepticism. once world football’s most coveted trophy. Gazzaniga’s design clearly struck a “There’s no sense in a comparison chord with the FIFA committee set up like that,” Gazzaniga told FIFA.com in A new beginning specifi cally to select the new trophy, with September 2009 as his famous trophy Returning to 1970, the retirement of the the Italian beating off 52 rival entries to embarked on its latest global trip (see Jules Rimet left FIFA in need of a new see his creation chosen as the new FIFA following article). “The Mona Lisa is of a trophy to adorn its fl agship tournament. World Cup Trophy. different quality and is in a whole different In keeping with the hard-fought qualifying Understandably, given the fate of its category. I appreciate the compliment, but process undergone by the various national predecessor, the current FIFA World Cup that’s an exaggeration. The reason the teams wishing to take part in the FIFA World Trophy is no longer given to the winning FIFA World Cup Trophy may attract similar Cup, a competition was also launched to teams to keep for the four years leading up crowds to the Mona Lisa is perhaps because design the old cup’s replacement. to the next edition. Instead they receive a you need some training or knowledge to In the end, it was Italian sculptor Silvio replica until the next tournament, but one understand all of Da Vinci’s subtleties. Gazzaniga who won through. Now aged which is “only” gold-plated. The trophy is The trophy can be understood by anyone. 89 and still living in his native Milan, also no longer intended to be kept outright Perhaps not completely, but it is still a great Gazzaniga was employed at the time by by any team that wins it three times. A popular symbol which continues to touch the Stabilimento Artistico Bertoni. He later decision will have to be taken about its people.”

Nelson Mandela welcomed the FIFA World Cup Trophy to South Africa in May, along with Local Organising Committee CEO Dr Danny Jordaan and FIFA Secretary General Jérôme Valcke.

38 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 The FIFA World Cup Trophy landed in Jakarta, Indonesia, in January – one of 84 stop-offs around the world. THE TROPHY HAS LANDED… The FIFA World Cup Trophy touched down in South Africa in early May following an incredible global trek through 84 countries and 91 major cities. By David O’Connor

As it prepares to be handed over to the and Nobel Peace Prize winner Nelson said Brazilian legend and three-time FIFA world’s best football team for the tenth Mandela, six years after Mandela had last World Cup winner Pelé as he thrilled time in its 36-year existence, the FIFA World touched the trophy – on the day his country the crowd with an appearance at the Cup Trophy has of course already clocked was awarded the 2010 FIFA World Cup™. Rio event. “Of course I hope that the up plenty of air miles. Nothing could have Following its reunion with the legendary captain of the current Brazilian national prepared the prestigious prize for its latest statesman, the trophy then embarked on team gets to experience that emotion in odyssey though – a 138,902km journey in its fi nal leg – an intense 32-day trip through South Africa.” the space of just nine months. 36 locations, including not only major Host Marco Tardelli, a member of the Italian Kicking off in Cairo on 24 September, Cities such as Durban and Cape Town but team which won the 1982 FIFA World the FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour by Coca- also smaller, rural areas like Mthatha and Cup™ and current assistant manager of Cola has taken in almost half of the Orkney. the Irish national team, welcomed the world’s countries and given hundreds of “The response to the FIFA World trophy to Ireland’s capital city Dublin. “It’s thousands of football fans a once-in-a- Cup Trophy Tour by Coca-Cola has heavier than I remember,” joked Tardelli as lifetime opportunity to see the famous been incredible, particularly in Africa,” he lifted the trophy for a second time, to trophy up close and even get a souvenir said Emmanuel Seuge, Group Director, carry it off the aeroplane. photograph of their special moment. Worldwide Sports and Entertainment Another former World Cup winner The fi rst leg of the tour took place Marketing for Coca-Cola. “We have been caught up in the excitement of the tour exclusively on the African continent, greeted by thousands of passionate fans was Christian Karembeu, a member of visiting 50 countries in 70 days before who have welcomed us to their countries the French team that won world football’s arriving in Cape Town on 2 December, and expressed their excitement and biggest prize in 1998. Born and raised in just in time for the FIFA World Cup Final celebrations at our events.” New Caledonia, Karembeu had the honour Draw. After a well-deserved festive break, While the general public could get a of accompanying the trophy back to his the trophy was soon back on the road rare close-up glimpse of the trophy, they homeland. “I never thought I would be for the international leg of the tour, were not able to get their hands on it – a able to bring the FIFA World Cup Trophy starting in the Indian city of Kolkata on privilege which is reserved exclusively for back to where I was born and grew up,” 15 January 2010. Another 33 countries heads of state and previous FIFA World he said. “I am thrilled.” followed, spanning fi ve continents and Cup™ winners, plenty of whom were The trophy has been in the hands of taking in some truly iconic spots, such as queuing up to rekindle old memories. some true football greats over the past nine Moscow’s Red Square and Rio de Janeiro’s months. Now only one question remains – Copacabana Beach. Pure emotion who will be the next person to lay hands Finally came the return to South Africa, “There are certain things in life that cannot on sport’s most iconic trophy when the where the trophy was welcomed by none be explained, but when a sportsperson 2010 FIFA World Cup reaches its climax other than former South African President touches a trophy, it’s pure emotion,” in Soccer City on 11 July?

FIFA WORLD I NEWS 39 BEAUTY AND THE BEST Vibrant design and high-tech engineering have been brought together by FIFA Partner adidas to create “Jabulani” – the latest in a long line of offi cial match balls for the FIFA World Cup™.

England international David Beckham shows off Jabulani during the ball’s offi cial launch in Cape Town last December.

40 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Not everything was better in the “good which means “to celebrate” in the isiZulu that came back from the tests on Jabulani, old days”, as can be proven by looking language. Produced by FIFA Partner adidas we can defi nitely say that this is the roundest back at the history of match balls at the using state-of-the-art technology along ball we have ever produced. Even if some air FIFA World Cup™. At the very fi rst edition, with design elements aimed to mirror the pressure was lost, this means that the ball played in Uruguay in 1930, the lack of any energy, vibrancy and multicultural make-up would retain a good spherical shape, which offi cially designated tournament ball meant of the tournament’s South African hosts, would not be the case with conventional that the two sides contesting the fi nal – Jabulani is a worthy addition to the lineage 32-panel hand-stitched balls.” the Uruguayan hosts and South American of FIFA World Cup offi cial match balls rivals Argentina – both came to the match produced by adidas since the 1970 FIFA “With the current insisting that their own favoured ball should World Cup Mexico™. modern, fast game it is be used for the showdown. In a compromise Among the key innovations built into unimaginable today, it was decided that Jabulani is the use of thermally bonded 3D essential that we give each side would be able to use their ball for panels which fi t together to form the ball’s the players a ball that is one half of the game each. The arrangement outer surface. This means that the ball is as precise as they are.” seems to have worked out best for Uruguay made up of pieces which are already curved who were trailing 2-1 after using Argentina’s when they are made – unlike traditional adidas innovation team Senior Development Engineer Hans-Peter Nürnberg ball in the fi rst half, before rallying to win models which consist of fl at shapes which 4-2 with their own ball! only “bulge” into a spherical shape once Finer technical details to be found By today’s standards, the discussion over they are stretched by the pumping of air on Jabulani include a newly developed which of those 1930 balls was the better into the ball. “Grip’n’Groove” profi le which uses “aero would be irrelevant since both would be groove” channels on the ball’s surface seen as being equally bad. Made of leather Roundest ever and a smaller microtexture, comprising and inconsistent in their shape and bounce, “This is a major innovation which required an smaller goose-bump-like grips, to provide the balls used in the sport’s early years were entirely new production process, but which unparalleled accuracy and consistency. erratic and heavy – particularly in the wet. really paid off because it gives us pieces “For us, it is really important to keep Fast forward 80 years and hardly any which come together to form a perfect eliminating the imperfections of previous comparison can be made between the sphere and a truly uniform ball response,” balls,” Nürnberg explains. “With the balls of 1930 and the offi cial match ball Hans-Peter Nürnberg, Senior Development current modern, fast game it is essential of the 2010 FIFA World Cup™, known Engineer of the adidas innovation team, told that we give the players a ball that is as more concisely as “Jabulani”, a word FIFA World. “Looking at the laboratory data precise as they are.”

bladder (orange) aero grooves

inner carcass (polyester/ 3D tripod panel cotton fabric)

3D triangle panel aero grooves

Sneak peek: a look inside Jabulani

FIFA WORLD I NEWS 41 By now, the world’s top players will be well-accustomed to Jabulani, with each of the participating teams at the 2010 FIFA MEET THE FAMILY ... World Cup having been sent practice balls. Nürnberg says that the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive – with perhaps one, not altogether surprising, exception. “Some of the goalkeepers seem to be struggling a bit, or have told us they are having to adapt a little, which is often the way with new balls.. The rest of the players like the fact that they can shoot from almost anywhere, but of course the goalies see it a Telstar little differently, because they feel the ball 1970 FIFA World Cup Mexico™ is coming at them a little faster and with a 1974 FIFA World Cup Germany™ Ask any child today to sketch a foot- higher energy. Even if it does turn out to ball and you are likely to end up with Tango favour strikers over goalkeepers, though, something remarkably similar to the 1978 FIFA World Cup Argentina™ the main thing is that this ball will perform Telstar. Drawing its name as well as its Marking another revolution in football consistently for both sides.” pioneering look from the revolutionary design, the Tango included 20 panels space satellites that had recently been bearing a “triad” feature which gave put into orbit, the Telstar was the fi rst an overall optical impression of 12 African inspiration football to use black pentagons on identical white circles. This design Jabulani’s design is no less striking than a white background. Since the 1970 classic was so successful that it formed its technological specifi cations, and draws FIFA World Cup™ was the fi rst to be the basis of the next fi ve FIFA World heavily on the South African host nation broadcast live, the ball was designed Cup™ offi cial match balls. The 1978 for its visual inspiration. to be easier to see on black-and-white ball represented elegance, dynamism televisions. The Telstar was used again in and passion – just like the Argentinian “Everything you see in the design has a 1974, both in black and white and in a dance of the same name. link to South Africa,” explains adidas Senior striking all-white design, named “Chile”. Designer Janneke van Oorschot,. “When our design team fi rst went to the country to get ideas, we were impressed by the whole concept of diversity and unity, of the 11 languages and cultures that have come together in harmony to form the modern South Africa. “We wanted to put that concept across Questra all of our products and of course into the 1994 FIFA World Cup USA™ The technical development stage for offi cial match ball. We started with the this ball, which was made from fi ve main elements, such as the triangle panel different materials, was completed in Tricolore with its rounded edges which we see as the adidas centre for ball development 1998 FIFA World Cup France™ a symbol of unity. Then there are shapes in France before being tested by The last of Tango’s direct descendants, reminiscent of the Soccer City stadium where professional players, amateurs and the 1998 tournament ball was the fi rst multi-coloured ball. France’s fl ag the opening game and fi nal match will be youth teams in France, Germany and the USA. Continuing the evolution from and national colours (the Tricolore) played. And perhaps above all, we have the the original Tango, this ball introduced inspired the ball’s name and design, visual languages of the 11 gold lines running a high-tech, ultra-high energy return which also incorporated the traditional between the panels and the 11 colours used layer of white polyethylene foam, “cockerel” symbol of the French across the ball – all of which refl ects the 11 making Questra softer to the touch nation and football association. On languages and cultures of the country. (more controllable) and much faster the technical side, the ball featured off the foot for more speed. Inspired an advanced “syntactic foam” layer “Beyond the details, though, I think by space technology, high velocity – a tight regular matrix, composed of the name of the ball says it all. Jabulani is rockets and America’s “quest for the gas-fi lled, individually closed and highly a celebration, and the ball is designed to stars”, Questra set new performance durable micro balloons. This additional refl ect colour, positive energy and positive standards. layer helped to further improve the feelings. I think that is the clearest message ball’s durability and energy return and made it more responsive. that we hope the ball brings across.”

42 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 A LOOK AT JABULANI’S ANCESTORS

Azteca 1986 FIFA World Cup Mexico™ The Azteca was the fi rst FIFA World Tango España Cup match ball to use synthetic material 1982 FIFA World Cup Spain™ in place of the traditional leather. It was The design of this ball was only slightly a change that once again revolutionised altered from the original Tango of four the game, increasing the durability of years earlier but there was a major the ball and further minimising water Etrusco Unico technological innovation. Though still absorption. With its never-before- 1990 FIFA World Cup Italy™ made of leather, the Tango España achieved performance on hard ground, The adidas Etrusco Unico evolved the featured revolutionary waterproof at high altitude and in wet conditions, use of synthetic materials further, sealed seams which dramatically the Azteca represented a massive leap creating the first-ever match ball reduced the ball’s water absorption forward for the game. Its elegantly containing an internal layer of black and minimised weight increase during and elaborately decorated design was polyurethane foam, making Etrusco games played in the wet. inspired by the hosting nation’s native Unico fully water-resistant, more lively Aztec architecture and murals. and faster than ever. The name and intricate design took their inspiration from Italy’s magnifi cent, ancient history and the contributions and fi ne art of the Etruscans. Three Etruscan lion heads decorate each of the 20 Tango triads.

Fevernova 2002 FIFA World Cup Korea/Japan™ Experts were quick to praise the Fevernova as “the most accurate ball ever”. Featuring a refi ned syntactic foam layer and a three-layer, knitted chassis the ball was engineered to boast superior performance characteristics Teamgeist and a constantly precise and predictable 2006 FIFA World Cup Germany™ fl ight path. More obviously to the Introducing a radical new 14-panel watching millions, Fevernova was the configuration, which reduced the fi rst ball to break with the traditional amount of three-panel “touch Tango design introduced in 1978. The points” by 60%, Teamgeist was colourful and revolutionary look was designed to give a smoother, rounder entirely based on Asian culture, with exterior, affording players signifi cant the golden elements standing for the improvements in the ball’s accuracy energy of the host nations, while the and control. Decorated in white and red fl ames represented the tradition of black, the traditional colours of the fi re as a driving force. German national football team, and accentuated with the golden colour of the FIFA World Cup Trophy, the ball’s name comes from the German word for “team spirit”.

FIFA WORLD I NEWS 43 TV – BRINGING THE FANS CLOSER

At the FIFA World Cup™, the ratio between fans in the stadium and those watching at home is around 1:10,000. That is a fi gure that explains just why FIFA puts so much hard work into the production of TV footage and strives to be the number one in this area.

Brazil star Luís Fabiano provides viewers with a close-up during last year’s FIFA Confederations Cup.

44 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 At the FIFA World Cup™, the ratio they can watch not only live matches but who want to produce their own reports between fans in the stadium and those also call up replays or store footage in on matches and would also like to show watching at home is around 1:1,000. That their digital archive. These technical and images focusing on the host country, is a fi gure that explains just why FIFA puts visual innovations have been made possible the host city, the teams, the fans or even so much hard work into the production of by the production process, which is now regional culture no longer have to travel TV footage and strives to be number one completely digital. around with their own team to collect in this area. Another innovation of note will be the the necessary material as instead they Hundreds of millions of fans, spread out use of seven special cameras in 25 matches can now get it directly from FIFA. FIFA across the entire world, follow the FIFA to take footage into the “third dimension”. offers the EBIF Show (Extended Basic World Cup on their TV screens and eagerly 3D footage will primarily be used for International Feed Show) for exactly await each and every snippet from both on broadcasts in cinemas, but a number of that purpose, to provide footage and and off the pitch. Fans at home are now TV channels will also offer this service to background information on each game. accustomed to having all the information allow fans who don 3D glasses to get the All of the material is made available on a on screen and at their fi ngertips, and they feeling that they are sitting at the edge of media platform that allows broadcasters expect to see countless replays of the most the pitch and up close to the action. to not only download the material but to exciting and controversial incidents from “The 3D experience of a football match is also upload their own footage and swap every conceivable angle. As demands and something special,” said FIFA Director of TV it with other parties. FIFA will also be expectations increase, so the production Niclas Ericson following a demonstration breaking new ground when it comes to of television coverage becomes ever more of a football match produced in 3D. “The the logistical dimensions of the 2010 FIFA complicated and time-consuming. At the quality of the picture and the movement of World Cup. There were 14 fi lm teams at 2010 FIFA World Cup™ in South Africa, FIFA the ball and the players make viewers feel the 2006 FIFA World Cup, but this time and its long-standing production partner one step closer to being in the stadium.” round there will be no fewer than 42. HBS will introduce a raft of innovations that Events in the stadium will also be Each team will have its own dedicated fi lm all have the same goal: to get the fans as covered in greater detail than ever before. team. All of these teams will be working close to the action as possible and to make Between 29 and 32 cameras will be on hard to overcome the challenges posed by their viewing experience that much better. hand to cover the 90 minutes of action on the long distances and the short deadlines Fans can now use mobile devices, the pitch, but in addition, after each game to provide the pictures that will be beamed particularly mobile phones, to watch vastly there will also be a further 60 minutes back into living rooms or on to market improved World Cup footage that has been of footage covering the build-up to the squares to create the incredible experience produced especially for smaller screens, and match, a summary of the two halves and of watching the FIFA World Cup at a public thanks to a whole new range of functions, images of the fi rst 30 minutes. Those viewing event.

AN ALLIANCE WITH AFRICA

In 2004, FIFA and the African Union of Broadcasting The goal of the Legacy Weeks is to raise the To create the Africa-specifi c feed, the AUB has (AUB) began discussions on bringing the 2010 FIFA standard of football television broadcasts in the identifi ed some of the most promising African World Cup South Africa™ to the televisions and participating countries, allowing the broadcasters commentators and put them in a specially radios of the sub-Saharan Africa region in a way themselves to create a more valuable product, designed training programme, conducted by that would provide lasting benefi ts for the African which they can use to increase their long-term Canal France International, to further improve broadcast community. Now that vision is being revenues. their live commentary skills. The feeds will be turned into reality. In addition, the AUB and FIFA will produce an produced in a specifi c area of the International Over the past four years, FIFA and the AUB have Africa-specifi c feed of all 64 matches of the 2010 Broadcast Centre, and in addition to the live been working together on a number of broadcast- FIFA World Cup in both English and French, as well matches, there will also be Africa-specifi c highlight related projects, providing further incentives for as selected matches in Portuguese – providing shows using specially selected local talent on both broadcasters wishing to air World Cup matches. African viewers with an African perspective on the sides of the camera. The most innovative of these projects are the games they are watching, something which many The cooperation between the AUB and FIFA is a FIFA-AUB Legacy Weeks, which provide top- European, South American and Asian fans have model example of how media rights holders can class training courses where the broadcasters’ long been accustomed to thanks to the unilateral get involved on the African continent, providing employees can receive additional training in the feeds frequently used by major broadcasters in high-quality content while meeting commercial latest best-practice football production techniques. those regions. and development goals at the same time.

FIFA WORLD I NEWS 45 A giant ticket was presented at the ceremony to mark the handover of tickets to construction workers. DREAM TICKETS

Tens of thousands of South Africans who would never normally have the chance to see a FIFA World Cup™ match live will be able to do exactly that at the 2010 tournament, thanks to FIFA’s innovative Ticket Fund programme.

Hundreds of Soccer City construction in order to collect two tickets each for one World Cup tickets, designed to reward workers shrugged off heavy rain and chilly of the eight World Cup matches taking those whose efforts have made the 2010 temperatures on 3 May as they came place at the venue. FIFA World Cup™ possible and ensure the together at the stadium which they had The ceremony, attended by FIFA involvement of local residents who might helped transform for a special celebration. Secretary General Jérôme Valcke, Local otherwise have only dreamed of seeing a Dancing, singing and blowing South Organising Committee CEO Dr Danny match live. Africa’s famed vuvuzela trumpets, the Jordaan and Johannesburg’s Executive First announced in September 2008 builders were given a well-earned break Mayor Amos Masondo, was part of a mass and offi cially launched in August 2009, from their work on the fi nal preparations distribution of 120,000 complimentary the Ticket Fund is the fi rst initiative of its

46 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 kind in the 80-year history of the FIFA which provides portable lap tables for Kia’s focus is also on health, with World Cup. In total, 54,000 tickets will be children whose schools do not possess disadvantaged children from around given out to 27,000 stadium construction conventional desks. As well as promoting South Africa being given the opportunity workers across the nine Host Cities, with education in general, Hyundai have also to participate in street soccer leagues as the remaining 66,000 being distributed via well as an accompanying health education social and human development activities “The chance to sit in programme, implemented by Kia’s chosen supported by FIFA Partners adidas, Coca- partner Sporting Chance. Through this the stadiums we have Cola, Hyundai/Kia, Sony and Visa. programme South African children will “We want to say a big thank you to built to watch a World learn about the importance of nutrition, the men and women whose hard work, Cup match is a perfect hygiene and being active. skill and creativity brought us to the point Adult education takes centre stage for we’re at today. It is amazing what you have reward, something Visa, who have used their Ticket Fund achieved and we hope that you will enjoy we would have never allocation to provide incentives for South your World Cup experience,” said Jordaan, Africans taking part in a fi nancial literacy who together with the FIFA Secretary imagined.” roadshow which again uses the theme of General handed over the symbolic Soccer City construction worker football to impart serious messages about ticket to Patrick Geqeza, representing Patrick Geqeza fi nancial management skills. the construction workers who built and “We have received great backing upgraded the tournament’s ten stadiums. decorated the lap desks with colourful for the Ticket Fund from our partners “I am really proud when I look at the designs aimed at promoting road safety. and already thousands of people across work my fellow workers and I have done Coca-Cola have focused on the South Africa have participated in social over the years. The chance to sit in the environment, rolling out a nationwide development programmes, aimed at stadiums we have built, to watch a World recycling programme in 200 South African empowering them with the knowledge Cup match is a perfect reward, something schools, with World Cup tickets awarded and skills to help shape their futures,” we would have never imagined,” said to schoolchildren taking part in a can- and summarised Valcke. Geqeza, who has been part of the bottle-collecting competition. Sony are Crucially, the Ticket Fund initiative will reconstruction of the Soccer City stadium meanwhile addressing pressing health not end when the fi nal whistle is blown on from day one. and social issues, after pairing up with the 2010 FIFA World Cup. All of the FIFA South African non-profi t organisation Partner projects are based on long-term Funding the future Grassroot Soccer to support programmes partnerships that will continue to create As well as rewarding the essential efforts that combine the fun of football with opportunities for South Africans for years of the construction workers, the Ticket important lessons about HIV and Aids. to come. Fund is also aimed at having a much wider impact on South African society. Hundreds of thousands of children and adults across South Africa have been participating in one of the sustainable Ticket Fund programmes implemented by the FIFA Partners. The complimentary category four tickets are used as further incentives to get involved in a wide range of programmes focusing on three key areas: education, health and the environment. adidas, for example, has teamed up with South Africa’s Department of Education to support the “My 2010 School Adventure” campaign, which uses the huge interest in the 2010 FIFA World Cup to create an exciting programme which combines sport and education. Education is also at the forefront of the campaigns overseen by Hyundai, who are working together with Lapdesk, a company Construction workers will receive nearly half of the 120,000 Ticket Fund tickets.

FIFA WORLD I NEWS 47 FROM MONTEVIDEO TO BERLIN

The 2010 FIFA World Cup™ will mark the turning of a new page in the history of sport in Africa, but when it comes to the history of the tournament itself, we are now getting ready to plunge into the 19th exciting chapter. FIFA World takes a look back at the 18 previous editions, and at the event’s evolution from a humble 13-team competition to today’s 32-team sporting extravaganza…

1930 URUGUAY

The Estadio Centenario in Montevideo was the setting for the fi rst World Cup fi nal – a 4-2 triumph for Uruguay over Argentina in front of an offi cial crowd of 80,000 spectators. With just 13 teams taking part, this invitation competition was played out in three stadiums in a single city. Europe’s representatives – France, Yugoslavia, Romania and Belgium – joined eight teams from Latin America and the USA after many European sides were put off taking part by the arduous 14- day voyage to Montevideo and the severe fi nancial crisis that was sweeping Europe. Romania only travelled to Uruguay after 1934 ITALY King Karol promised that he would allow the Romanian players three months off work This time 16 teams took part, including and keep their jobs open until they returned Egypt, Africa’s fi rst representatives at the FIFA from South America after the tournament. World Cup™. The knockout format meant that, after fi rst-round defeats, the 26,000km round trips made by Argentina and Brazil were rewarded with just 90 minutes of football. The 14-day tournament was again won by the host nation, this time Italy. In the fi nal in Rome, the Italians, who had enjoyed the biggest win of the tournament with a 7-1 thrashing of the USA in the fi rst round, were taken to extra time by Czechoslovakia before securing a 2-1 victory. One of the stars of the Italian team was Giuseppe Meazza, a man since immortalised in the offi cial name of the world-famous “San Siro” stadium in Milan.

48 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 1938 FRANCE

Italy beat Hungary 4-2 in the fi nal to secure a second consecutive World Cup title. Giuseppe Meazza hit the headlines again by converting a penalty in the 2-1 semi-fi nal win over Brazil despite snapping the elastic in his shorts. Holding up his shorts with his left hand, Meazza placed the ball on the penalty spot with the other before fi ring home. Brazil’s 6-5 extra-time defeat of Poland must go down as one of the most exciting games in FIFA World Cup history. Brazil’s Leônidas, who played part of the game barefoot, scored a hat trick but Poland’s Ernst Wilimowski went one better by notching four goals in the match. Switzerland, with a 4-2 win over Germany, and Cuba, who beat Romania 2-1, sprung the biggest surprises of the competition.

1950 BRAZIL

The fi rst World Cup after the Second World War reached a sensational climax. Hosts Brazil lost 2-1 to Uruguay in the deciding game in Rio de Janeiro, with Alcides Ghiggia scoring the winning goal eleven minutes from time. Brazilian goalkeeper Moacyr Barbosa bore the brunt of his home nation’s frustration when he somehow managed to allow a tame shot to beat him. Offi cial records put the crowd for this classic encounter in the Maracanã stadium at 174,000, but other sources suggest that over 200,000 spectators may have been in attendance. After qualifying for the event, India pulled out at the last minute after FIFA banned teams from playing barefoot. The Jules Rimet Trophy was dusted off for the tournament after spending much of the Second World War stowed away in a shoebox under the bed of FIFA Vice-President Ottorino Barassi.

FIFA WORLD I NEWS 49 1954 SWITZERLAND

For the fi rst time ever, players had to wear numbered shirts at the World Cup fi nals. The tournament in Switzerland saw the highest goals-to-games ratio in World Cup history – 140 goals in 26 matches at an average of 5.38 per match. Hungary chalked up the most resounding victory with a 9-0 win over Korea Republic, while the match between Austria and Switzerland saw the most goals of any World Cup game to date with the Austrians coming out on top in a 7-5 thriller. With a legendary line-up that included the likes of Ferenc Puskás, József Bozsik, Sándor Kocsis and Nándor Hidegkuti, Hungary looked invincible and seemed destined to take the title after dishing out an 8-3 drubbing to the West German team they would later face in the fi nal. However, the magical Magyars conceded a two-goal lead to lose a momentous fi nal in Berne 3-2. The West German heroes were team captain Fritz Walter, Helmut Rahn and Max Morlock.

1958 SWEDEN

A 17-year-old called Edson Arantes do Nascimento, who would later enter the history books under his popular name of Pelé, graced the world football stage for the fi rst time. The Brazilian scored six goals, including a hat trick in a 5-2 win over France and two goals in his team’s 5-2 victory over Sweden in the fi nal. The top goalscorer, however, was France’s Just Fontaine, whose 13 goals in one World Cup tournament have never been matched. Nevertheless, Brazil dominated the headlines, completing the fi rst of their fi ve FIFA World Cup titles to date and avenging their defeat at the hands of Uruguay eight years earlier. Garrincha, Vavá and Pelé captivated the fans with magnifi cent displays of attacking football. The Jules Rimet Trophy was presented by new FIFA President Arthur Drewry, following the death of Rimet two years earlier at the age of 83.

50 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 1962 CHILE

The Brazilian squad featured a whole host of star players, including Garrincha, Didi, Pelé, Vavá and Mário Zagallo, and few were surprised when they overcame Czechoslovakia 3-1 in the fi nal to take the title for the second time running, even though Pelé had suffered an injury in the South Americans’ opening group match that would rule him out for the rest of the tournament. The infamous “Battle of Santiago” between Italy and Chile caused quite a commotion. Two Italians were sent off by the English referee, one of them with a broken nose after being punched by a Chilean player. Chile secured third place with a 1-0 victory in the play-off against Yugoslavia.

1970 MEXICO

Yellow and red cards made their World Cup debut at the 1970 tournament, which was also the fi rst to be 1966 ENGLAND covered live on television. Brazil celebrated a third triumph, thereby winning the Jules Rimet Trophy outright. Inspired A few days after being stolen by an opportunist thief in the by Pelé, Carlos Alberto, Jairzinho, Gérson, Rivelino and English capital, the Jules Rimet Trophy was sniffed out of bushes Tostão, the South Americans overcame Italy 4-1 in a trilling in a South London garden by a dog called Pickles. England’s 4-2 fi nal at Mexico City’s Azteca stadium. The tournament win over West Germany in the fi nal also grabbed the headlines. in Mexico will always be remembered for its thrilling, Geoff Hurst scored a hat trick to help England – the birthplace high-scoring matches. The semi-fi nal between Italy and of football – secure the nation’s only World Cup title to date, West Germany was a classic example. After 90 minutes, but Hurst’s controversial second goal remains the topic of many the two teams were locked at 1-1. Thirty minutes later, it heated discussions. Did his shot rebound from the crossbar behind, was 4-3 to Italy. The fi ve goals scored in extra time mark a on, or even in front of the goal line? Millions of football fans still feat that has never been repeated in a World Cup match. ponder this very question. Whatever the answer, the fact is that Gerd Müller of West Germany was the tournament’s top having consulted one of his linesmen, the referee allowed the marksman with ten goals. goal to stand. Eusébio helped Portugal secure third place, while the biggest shock was Korea DPR’s 1-0 defeat of Italy.

FIFA WORLD I NEWS 51 1974 WEST GERMANY

West Germany sealed a second FIFA World Cup crown, 20 years after their fi rst and this time in front of their home fans. Despite a disastrous start to the fi nal in Munich against the Netherlands, when they fell behind to a second-minute Johan Neeskens penalty after Uli Hoeness’s foul on Dutch maestro Johan Cruyff, the home team pulled through 2-1 thanks to the efforts of stars such as Franz Beckenbauer, Gerd Müller, Sepp Maier and Paul Breitner. The Netherlands’ unexpected progress through the competition was matched by another surprise outfi t, Poland. Thanks in no small part to Grzegorz Lato, the competition’s most prolifi c scorer with seven goals, the Poles took third place with a 1-0 victory over Brazil. Zaire, whose results included a 9-0 defeat by Yugoslavia, became the fi rst sub-Saharan African nation to take part in the World Cup fi nals. The 1974 FIFA World Cup™ was the fi rst to be televised in colour, and it marked the fi rst appearance of the new World Cup Trophy designed by Italy’s Silvio Gazzaniga.

1982 SPAIN

Paolo Rossi left an indelible mark on the 1982 FIFA World Cup™, almost single-handedly leading Italy to the title with 1978 a six-goal scoring spree that made him the competition’s top goalgetter. Rossi’s last goal of the tournament was ARGENTINA the opener in his nation’s 3-1 win over West Germany in the fi nal. For many fans, Brazil were the most entertaining Once again, the World Cup was won by the host nation. team in the competition, but the South Americans were Argentina secured the title with a 3-1 extra-time victory over eliminated after losing 3-2 to Italy in a crucial match in the Netherlands, who were forced to accept defeat in a second the second group stage. Diego Maradona, later voted consecutive fi nal. Argentina’s talisman was striker Mario Kempes, FIFA Player of the Century alongside Pelé in an internet whose two strikes in the fi nal helped him top the goalscoring poll, made his World Cup debut in Spain but could not charts with six goals. Brazil took third place with a 2-1 win over prevent the elimination of Argentina in the second group Italy. Famous footballing nations such as England, Yugoslavia and stage. Northern Ireland’s Norman Whiteside became the the USSR did not manage to qualify for the tournament, while Iran youngest player to play in the World Cup fi nals at the and Tunisia made their fi rst appearances at the World Cup fi nals. tender age of 17 years and 42 days. This tournament was also the fi rst to feature 24 teams.

52 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 1990 ITALY

Prior to the tournament, few people knew much about Italian striker Salvatore “Totò” Schillaci, yet by the end of the competition he had achieved world fame. He hit the net six times, more than any other player at the tournament, and shot his team to third place. Argentina and Maradona reached the fi nal again, but this time the Germans turned the tables with Andreas Brehme scoring the only goal of the game from the penalty spot. 1986 MEXICO But it was another player, Roger Milla, who stole the limelight. The 38-year-old, playing This was Diego Maradona’s World Cup. A playmaker and as an amateur on the island of Réunion in goalscorer par excellence, he proved unstoppable en route to the the Indian Ocean, guided Cameroon to the summit of world football. It could be argued that no individual quarter-fi nals with his attacking runs and player has ever had such a decisive infl uence on a FIFA World goalscoring exploits, before England tamed Cup as Maradona did in Mexico. 115,000 fans crammed into the Indomitable Lions in the last eight. Both the Azteca stadium to witness Argentina’s 3-2 fi nal victory over semi-fi nals – West Germany v. England and West Germany. France took third place with a 4-2 win over Argentina v. Italy – were settled by penalty Belgium after extra time. The achievement came as just reward shoot-outs. for a French team that gave an astonishing display of offensive football, thanks in no small part to their star-studded “magic square” comprising Michel Platini, Jean Tigana, Alain Giresse and Luis Fernández. Morocco became the fi rst-ever African team to advance past the group stage.

1994 USA

The fi nal of USA ’94 was the fi rst to be decided by a penalty shoot-out. Brazil rejoiced and Italy wept after Franco Baresi and Roberto Baggio missed from the spot. The group match between Russia and Cameroon set new records – Oleg Salenko became the fi rst-ever player to be on target fi ve times in a single World Cup match, and Roger Milla became the oldest-ever goalscorer at the tournament at the age of 42 years, one month and eight days. Under the captaincy of star striker Hristo Stoichkov, Bulgaria also hit the news, conquering Germany 2-1 in the quarter-fi nals en route to fi nishing in a highly creditable fourth place. Sweden went one better, achieving a sensational third place after losing 1-0 in a closely-fought semi-fi nal with Brazil. USA ’94 also saw an ignominious exit for Diego Maradona after he tested positive in a doping control test.

FIFA WORLD I NEWS 53 2002 KOREA/JAPAN

This was another tournament of fi rsts – the fi rst World Cup fi nals in two countries (ten stadiums in Korea, ten in Japan), and the fi rst FIFA World Cup in Asia. It was a tournament that will be remembered for the exploits of Ronaldo and the Korea Republic 1998 FRANCE team. The Brazilian striker sealed the title with both goals in his country’s 2-0 win After a string of less-than-impressive performances in the early over Germany, capturing the top goalscorer rounds of the competition, Zinédine Zidane raised his game to crown in the process with eight goals. After superhuman levels in the fi nal against Brazil, heading two goals in overcoming a series of serious injuries, it was the Stade de France to sew up the game for the host nation. The an almost miraculous comeback for Ronaldo. third goal by Emmanuel Petit was simply the icing on the cake. Korea Republic, meanwhile, exceeded all Brazil were a jaded outfi t in the fi nal, and they were not helped expectations by claiming a stunning fourth- by the selection of their superstar, Ronaldo, who was clearly unfi t. place fi nish. The thrilling performances of France’s surprise triumph was matched by astonishing displays third-placed Turkey were just as eye-catching. from several other teams, including Croatia, who landed in a Defending champions France, however, were startling third place thanks to a 2-1 win over the Netherlands, the big disappointments, failing to win a single after fi rst defeating Germany 3-0 in the quarter-fi nals. Croatian game or even score a goal as they bowed striker Davor Šuker headed the scoring list with six goals. France out after the group stage. Senegal, Ecuador, ’98 was the fi rst FIFA World Cup to feature 32 teams. Slovenia and China PR all made their World Cup debuts.

54 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 2006 GERMANY

Italy won their fourth world crown in Germany, beating France on penalties in Berlin following a 1-1 draw. If Zinédine Zidane’s red card for headbutting Marco Materazzi was the fi nal’s defi ning image, Italy’s triumph would be remembered as a team effort in which 21 members of their 23-man squad featured, with ten different Azzurri players fi nding the net. In a tournament which was short on goals, particularly in the latter stages, Italy’s defence was also exemplary – conceding only two goals, one an own goal and the other a penalty. It was also a special month for Jürgen Klinsmann’s young Germany side, whose vibrant attacking play thrilled the fans and earned the hosts an unexpected third-place fi nish. While the top-scoring German team dismantled the stereotype of dour German effi ciency on the pitch, their fans were doing likewise for their country’s reputation off it. Huge numbers congregated in fan parks across the country, welcoming their international guests with a warmth and generosity that fully lived up to the tournament’s motto, “A time to make friends”.

FIFA WORLD I NEWS 55 EIGHT DECADES OF INTRIGUE

The past 80 years of FIFA World Cup™ history have thrown up enough anecdotes, strange facts and quirky events to fi ll several record books. Restricting ourselves to just one fact for every year since that fi rst 1930 FIFA World Cup™, FIFA World offers a sample of 80 facts, stats and stories from the greatest show on earth…

1. FIFA’s first in Montevideo. The highest number of 5. The current World Cup format has World Cup trophy stadiums to have been used by a single been in place since 1986, though it was was the Jules Rimet host country was in Spain in 1982: 14 cities expanded to accommodate 32 teams for Trophy, which was and 17 stadiums. At the 2002 FIFA World the 1998 tournament onwards. Earlier permanently awarded to Cup™, when Korea Republic and Japan versions of the format included a straight Brazil after the Selecão’s were co-hosts, the two countries each knockout system (used in 1934 and 1938) third win in 1970. It was provided ten stadiums in as many cities. and the use of two separate group stages later stolen, however, Before Johannesburg this year, only nine for the 1974, 1978 and 1982 contests. never to be seen cities in fi ve countries have provided two again. The World Cup stadiums: Guadalajara, Mexico 6. The 1950 FIFA World Cup™ was the trophy had City, Monterrey, Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, only edition to be played according to a already been Buenos Aires, London and Paris. format that did not provide for a fi nal. stolen once Instead, the winners of four preliminary pools before when 3. Twelve countries have been one- qualifi ed for a fi nal pool. Results in this group it was taken time hosts of the FIFA World Cup, including of four effectively turned the last match from an South Africa in 2010, and 2002 co-hosts between Brazil and Uruguay into the fi nal, exhibition Korea Republic and Japan. Another four however, as only these two teams were still before the nations (Mexico, Italy, France and Germany) in with a chance of winning the tournament 1966 FIFA have had the honour of staging the event on the fi nal day. Uruguay famously upset World Cup™ twice (Mexico in 1970 and 1986, Italy in their Brazilian hosts to win 2-1. in England. 1934 and 1990, France in 1938 and 1998, A small dog and Germany in 1974 – as West Germany – 7. The earliest ever kick-off time was called Pickles later and 2006). To date, ten competitions have 11.30 for the match between Switzerland found it buried under a bush. The current been held in Europe, seven in the Americas and the US hosts at the 1994 FIFA World FIFA World Cup Trophy remains in the and one in Asia, with the 2010 FIFA World Cup™. Conversely, the latest kick-off time permanent possession of FIFA. The winning Cup™ set to herald the tournament’s debut so far has been 21.00, a time at which more association receives a replica until the next on African soil. than 100 World Cup matches have started. tournament, but this is “only” gold-plated. 4. A total of 23 cities have seen action 8. The fi rst offi cial substitution was 2. Three stadiums hosted the inaugural at two separate FIFA World Cups − eight made in the opening match of the 1970 FIFA 1930 FIFA World Cup™ in Uruguay, in Germany, seven in Italy and four each World Cup™ in Mexico between the host including the purpose-built Centenario in Mexico and France. team and the USSR. Soviet coach Gavriil

56 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Kachalin decided at half-time to replace another team’s strip. The French had ended the run. Italy’s upset was nothing, Viktor Serebryanikov with Anatoli Puzach. arrived at Mar del Plata to play Hungary however, compared to the fate of France without a change of strip, only to fi nd in 2002. The defending 1998 FIFA World 9. Red and yellow cards were not that both teams planned to play in white. Cup™ champions not only failed to pass introduced until 1970, although cautions France had to quickly borrow some unusual the opening round, but also became the and dismissals were previously listed in green-and-white striped shirts belonging fi rst reigning champions not to win at least reports. The fi rst player to be sent off was to local team Atlético Kimberley. one game or score a single goal. Peru’s Placido Galindo in the match against Romania in 1930.

10. The most cards ever shown in one match came during Portugal’s 2006 FIFA World Cup™ round of 16 match with the Netherlands when 16 yellow cards were shown, including four second bookings that led to a record four indirect red cards. In contrast, not a single player was sent off during the 1950 and 1970 FIFA World Cups.

Getting shirty

11. Shirt numbers were used for the fi rst time at the 1954 FIFA World Cup™. French forward Dominique Rocheteau sports the hastily-borrowed club colours of Atlético Since then, players wearing number nine Kimberley in 1978. have outscored all other numbers with a total of 235 goals, followed by number 10 14. The 1994 FIFA World Cup in the USA 17. Almost 31 million fans have (213), number 11 (182), number 7 (128) had an unusual number of competition attended the 708 World Cup matches and number 8 (127). Players’ names fi rst changes. It was the fi rst time that three played since 1930, an average of around appeared on shirts in 1994. points were awarded for a win (instead of 44,000 people per game. two), that fourth offi cials were brought 12. The shirt number 23 appeared in to support the refereeing trio, that an 18. More than 100,000 spectators offi cially for the fi rst time at the 2002 indoor match took place (at the Detroit have been recorded at 17 World Cup FIFA World Cup™ when teams were Pontiac Silverdome) and that all squad matches, all of them played either in Rio allowed to name 23 players in their squads. players could be seated on the bench and de Janeiro or Mexico City. The all-time Before that, however, the number made considered as potential substitutes. record was at the Maracanã in 1950 when an unoffi cial debut at the 1962 FIFA 173,850 fans witnessed Brazil’s surprise World Cup™ tournament on the back 15. To date, the host country has defeat at the hands of Uruguay. of Uruguay’s Guillermo Escalada because always made it through the group stage the superstitious Uruguayans had omitted to qualify for the second round. 19. Despite the sizes of the Maracanã the number thirteen from their squad list. and Azteca stadiums, the 1994 FIFA World In 1998, the number made another rare 16. Italy’s fi rst-round defeat by Cup in the USA set an overall attendance appearance when it was worn by South Sweden in 1950 was the fi rst time that record that still stands today. A total African keeper Simon Gopane. Gopane any defending champion had lost a game at of 3,587,538 spectators watched the owed his unusual number to the lateness the FIFA World Cup fi nals, and the fi rst time tournament’s 52 matches – an average of his call-up, being added to the squad that the Italians had tasted defeat during of more than 68,991 per game. following an injury to Paul Evans, who the competition’s 20-year history. After had himself been named as an injury deciding not to take part in the inaugural 20. Football was fi rst televised live by replacement for fi rst-choice goalie Andre 1930 competition, Italy were crowned the BBC in 1938 for the FA Cup fi nal. It took Arendse. champions in 1934 and 1938 without losing another 16 years, however, for the fi rst FIFA a game. The intervention of the Second World Cup to be televised in 1954 thanks 13. In 1978, France became the only World War extended their record reign as to further developments in technology and team so far to play a match wearing world champions before Sweden fi nally the important support of the European

FIFA WORLD I NEWS 57 (1998), Fevernova (2002), Teamgeist (2006) South America’s titles, with Argentina and and Jabulani (2010). Uruguay holding two wins each. Europe’s winning associations are Italy with four 24. The fi rst World Cup Mascot, titles, Germany with three and England introduced in 1966, was Willie – a British and France on one each. lion wearing a Union Jack flag jersey sporting the words “WORLD CUP”. 27. The most successful The following three tournaments teams are those which have each had boys as mascots: participated the highest Juanito (Mexico 1970); Tip & number of times: Brazil Tap (Germany 1974) and (19 World Cups), Italy Gauchito (Argentina 1978). and Germany (17), and Spain’s mascot in 1982 Argentina (15). was Naranjito, an Cool cats: World Cup Willie (above) and orange wearing 28. Ever-present Brazil are Zakumi (right) the Spain team the most prolific team in kit. Pique, a jalapeño World Cup history in terms of Broadcasting Union’s Eurovision Network, pepper with a moustache goals scored (201), followed which had been founded four years earlier. and wearing a sombrero, by Germany (190), Italy (122) The revolutionary breakthroughs of the was Mexico’s mascot in 1986. and Argentina (113). Aside from 1960s, and in particular the arrival of Italia ’90 saw the most imaginative mascot goalscoring, Brazil’s overall World Cup track communications satellites, meant that the yet, a stick fi gure player with a football record is impressive, with their 92 matches 1970 tournament in Mexico was the fi rst for a head and an Italian tricolore body in 18 tournaments yielding 64 victories and FIFA World Cup that could be described as called Ciao. Since then the trend has again an average of 2.2 points per game. a truly global, live event. been for animals, including Striker the dog (USA 1994), Footix the cockerel (France 29. Brazil are also the only team to have Trusted partners 1998), Goleo the lion (Germany 2006) and won the FIFA World Cup outside their Zakumi the South African leopard (2010). own continent, doing so twice – fi rst in 21. Today the FIFA World Cup is by far The exception was Korea and Japan in Sweden in 1958 and then again in Korea/ the biggest TV sports event in the world. 2002 when the mascots were Ato, Kaz and Japan in 2002. The Selecão are still waiting In 2006, a cumulative audience of more Nik, three futuristic, computer-generated to celebrate on home soil, however, having than 26 billion viewers was estimated for creatures. lost to South American rivals Uruguay in the 64 matches. the fi nal of the 1950 FIFA World Cup, 25. Including 2010, a total of 76 but they will have another chance in four 22. FIFA’s fi rst marketing programme teams will have taken part in the World years’ time when Brazil hosts the 2014 was launched at the 1982 FIFA World Cup fi nals. This includes countries which FIFA World Cup™. Cup™. Two of FIFA’s Partners from then, either no longer exist or have undergone adidas and Coca-Cola, are still on board. a transformation. When the FIFA World 30. Of the 75 countries to have Their relationship with FIFA dates back to Cup was expanded to 24 teams in 1982, participated so far in the FIFA World Cup, the 1970s. fi ve countries qualifi ed for the fi nals for the six are yet to score a World Cup goal. fi rst time. Since then, there have always Greece, the Dutch East Indies, Zaire, 23. Telstar was the fi rst offi cial FIFA been three or four new teams, rising to six Canada, Trinidad and Tobago, and China World Cup match ball, and was introduced in 2006. The 2010 FIFA World Cup will be PR are the countries in question. Greece, by adidas for the 1970 FIFA World Cup an exception to this trend as Slovakia will who failed to score at USA 1994, are the in Mexico. Deriving its name from the be the only debutants. only team with a chance to change this pioneering television satellites fi rst launched record in South Africa 2010. in 1962, the ball sported 32 black-and-white All square panels, reminiscent of the satellite design 31. Egypt were the fi rst African team and also intended to show up more clearly 26. Italy’s 2006 victory ensured that to appear in a FIFA World Cup, achieving on black-and-white televisions. Telstar was football’s two continental superpowers, this milestone at the 1934 FIFA World Cup™ used again in 1974 before being succeeded South America and Europe, head into in Italy, when they played just one match by Tango (1978 and 1982), Azteca (1986), the 2010 edition tied 9-9 for previous against Hungary and were eliminated. It Etrusco (1990), Questra (1994), Tricolore tournament wins. Brazil has won fi ve of then took until 1970 for Morocco to become

58 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 the next African participants. The fi rst win without losing a match, Switzerland’s 39. Austria’s 7-5 quarter-fi nal win over for an African side came eight years later record in 2006 will be hard to beat. Four Switzerland in 1954 still tops the list of when Tunisia beat Mexico 3-1 in Argentina. years ago, Jakob “Köbi” Kuhn’s team highest-scoring matches. In 1986, Morocco became the fi rst African went home without conceding a single team to qualify for the second stage, while goal. After managing three clean sheets 40. Three games share the record for the most progress to date has been made in the group stage, they played out a the largest winning margin, with nine by Cameroon and Senegal who made the goalless draw against Ukraine in the round goals separating the sides on each occasion. quarter-fi nals in 1990 and 2002 respectively. of 16 before eventually exiting in a penalty In 1954, Hungary’s star team defeated shoot-out. debutants Korea Republic 9-0, after which 32. The FIFA Statutes recognise the another 20 years went by before Yugoslavia four British associations – England, 36. The Swiss managed another infl icted an identical scoreline on Zaire. In Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland – unwanted fi rst that night in Cologne, when 1982, Hungary were at it again, subjecting as separate members. But the four have they failed to score a single time in the El Salvador to a 10-1 humiliation. qualifi ed for the same FIFA World Cup on shoot-out, a “feat” so far unmatched by only one occasion, in 1958, when they any World Cup team. 41. Two teams have scored fi ve goals found themselves evenly dispersed across in a game and yet failed to win. At the the tournament’s four groups. Surprisingly, 37. Five frequent scorelines have 1938 FIFA World Cup™, Poland lost 6-5 Wales and Northern Ireland made it as accounted for 60% of all World Cup results. to Brazil in a game that had been tied 4-4 far as the quarter-fi nals, with England Every third game has ended either 1-0 (18%) at the end of normal time. In a sweltering and Scotland missing out. Wales were or 2-1 (14%), while 11 per cent have ended match played in 1954, tournament hosts eventually eliminated by Pelé’s fi rst World 2-0. Another ten per cent have fi nished in a Switzerland were defeated 7-5 by their Cup goal, while Northern Ireland conceded 1-1 stalemate, whereas eight per cent have Austrian neighbours. The home side had led four against France, including two of the concluded with the scoreline that pleases 3-0 after nineteen minutes before the stifl ing all-time record 13 goals scored at the only afi cionados of great defending: 0-0. heat and a fl ood of goals overwhelmed tournament by Just Fontaine. Swiss goalkeeper Eugene Parlier. 38. Ten World Cup match fi xtures 33. Two-time world champions have been played at least fi ve times. Sweden German cool Uruguay play with four stars on their and Brazil are the most familiar opponents, shirts: two in recognition of their 1930 and having met each other seven times. At the 42. To date, twenty matches have been 1950 World Cup wins and the other two other end of the scale, the world is still decided by a penalty shoot-out: the fi rst in commemoration of their two Olympic waiting to see several fi rst-time encounters in 1982, when West Germany beat France triumphs of the 1920s. This shows the between major sides. Possible fi rst meetings 5-4 in the semi-fi nals after fi nishing extra- importance attached to the 1924 and in 2010 could include England against time tied at 3-3. The most recent shoot-out 1928 Olympic Football Tournaments, Serbia, France against the Netherlands came in the 2006 fi nal, when Italy beat both of which were great successes and or a tantalising clash between Iberian France 5-3 after a 1-1 draw. Germany, encouraged FIFA to launch their own neighbours Spain and Portugal. France, Argentina and Italy have all competition in 1930.

34. The Republic of Ireland have proved highly effi cient in their three World Cup fi nals appearances to date (1990, 1994, 2002), accumulating 14 points in 13 matches from just ten goals scored (1.4 points per goal). Only Croatia (1.33 points per goal) and Cameroon (1.26) can compete in this respect. England and Italy share the record for the best ratio (1.23) among the seven previous World Cup champions.

Out but not beaten

35. Although many countries have been eliminated from a FIFA World Cup Familiar faces: Brazil and Sweden have met seven times at the FIFA World Cup.

FIFA WORLD I NEWS 59 FIFA Ad_210x268mm.ai 1 12/22/2009 2:34:35 PM

60 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 ©2010 The Coca-Cola Company. COCA-COLA, the Contour Bottle and the Dynamic Ribbon are trademarks of The Coca-Cola Company. Coca-Cola of The trademarks Bottle and the Dynamic Ribbon are the Contour COCA-COLA, Company. Coca-Cola ©2010 The Argentina’s Gabriel Batistuta is the only player to have scored hat tricks at two separate FIFA World Cup fi nals. contested four World Cup penalty shoot- 47. All in all, 154 goals have been net, putting the US 2-0 up. Later, with the outs, though Germany are the only team scored from the penalty spot (7.5% score at 3-1 and 19 minutes still left to play, to have won all four. of all World Cup goals), and 34 have been Jeff Agoos then accidentally gave a goal back own goals (1.6%). to the Portuguese. Fortunately for Agoos, 43. Only three teams have lost a match the Americans held on to book their place at the FIFA World Cup fi nals and then gone Hat-trick heroes in the round of 16 at Portugal’s expense. on to win the tournament. The West German side of 1954 were the fi rst, losing 8-3 to the 48. A total of 47 hat tricks have been 52. The current World Cup goal total Hungarian favourites during the group stage scored in the history of the FIFA World Cup. is 2,063. The last milestone scorer was before exacting a 3-2 revenge in the fi nal. Sándor Kocsis (1954), Just Fontaine (1958), Sweden’s Marcus Allbäck, who headed in Another West German side repeated the feat Gerd Müller (1970) and Gabriel Batistuta the competition’s 2,000th goal in 2006. Prior 20 years later on home soil when they were (1994/1998) are the only players to have to that, signifi cant goals have been scored by dramatically beaten 1-0 at the 1974 FIFA done this twice, Batistuta even managing several famous names, including Gerd Müller World Cup™ by neighbours East Germany the feat at two different tournaments. (the 800th goal in 1970), Rob Rensenbrink before recovering to beat the Netherlands (the 1,000th in 1978), Jean-Pierre Papin (the 2-1 in the fi nal. Four years later, tournament 49. The fastest World Cup hat trick 1,200 th in 1986), Gary Lineker (the hosts Argentina were beaten 1-0 in their was scored by Hungary’s László Kiss against 1,300 th in 1986) and Christian last group-stage match, but bounced back El Salvador in 1982. It took him just seven Vieri (the 1,900th in 2002). to eventually win the fi nal 3-1, with the minutes, three less than Batistuta against Netherlands again the losing fi nalists. Jamaica in 1998. Sizzling strikers

44. 2,063 goals have been scored 50. Dutchman Ernie Brandts is the only 53. Just Fontaine in the 708 World Cup matches played so player so far to have scored a goal for his (1958) and Jairzinho far – an average of nearly three goals per own team and their opponents in the (1970) were in blistering game. The 1954 tournament in Switzerland same match. He did so in the high-pressure form when they both had the greatest average of goals scored setting of the Netherlands’ 1978 second achieved the feat of – 5.4 per match. The lowest average was group-stage meeting with Italy, the winners scoring in all six the 2.2 goals per match scored at Italia ’90. of which would progress to contest the matches played by their tournament fi nal. After scoring in his own net teams. Jairzinho won the 45. During that high-scoring 1954 early in the game to give the Azzurri hopes of FIFA World Cup in 1970 tournament, losing fi nalists Hungary scored an assisted route into the fi nal, Brandts made with Brazil, while Fontaine’s a total of 27 goals in fi ve matches, an amends with a second-half equaliser before goals carried France as far average of 5.4 per game – by far the best team-mate Arie Haan completed the Dutch as the semi-fi nals. In 1990, goal record of any FIFA World Cup so far. recovery with a 75th minute winning goal. Italy’s Salvatore “Totò” Schillaci only narrowly failed to 46. The fastest-ever World Cup goal 51. Only once in the history of the FIFA join this list: he scored in six out came in 2002, when Turkey’s Hakan Sukur World Cup have two own goals been of the seven games but failed to scored after just eleven seconds in the scored in the same match – during the USA’s fi nd the net in the second. third-place play-off against co-hosts Korea 2002 group-stage meeting with Portugal. Republic. Jorge Costa was the fi rst to score in his own Just Fontaine

FIFA WORLD I NEWS 61 54. The widest spread of goalscoring incredible 13 times in 1958. Sándor Kocsis both player and coach: Mario Zagallo as talent was demonstrated by the French has the best goalscoring average with 11 a player for Brazil (1958/62), whom he then squad in 1982 and then by the Italians in goals in just fi ve games. coached to victory in 1970 and Germany’s 2006. These two squads share the record Franz Beckenbauer as a player in 1974 and for having ten different players score 59. Only fi ve players have celebrated a coach in 1990. “Der Kaiser” also featured during their respective campaigns. being the tournament’s top scorer or on the losing side for West Germany in the joint top scorer and also ended up on the 1966 and 1986 fi nals as a player and coach 55. 6,352 players have so far featured winning team. Brazil’s Garrincha and Vavá respectively. Milorad Arsenijević was the in World Cup squads, a quarter (1,545) of were fi rst in 1962, both scoring four goals fi rst person ever to experience both roles whom never made it on to the fi eld. along with four other players. Next came at world football’s biggest event – fi rst as Argentina’s Mario Kempes in 1978, Italy’s a player for Yugoslavia in 1930 and then 56. The two players with the most Paolo Rossi in 1982 and another Brazilian, as the team’s coach in 1950. tournament appearances are Mexico’s Ronaldo, in 2002. goalkeeping legend Antonio Carbajal 63. Only four players have scored in (1950-66) and Germany’s Lothar Matthäus 60. Russia’s Oleg Salenko scored a two fi nals: Brazil’s Vavá (1958/62) and (1982-98), each of whom played at fi ve record fi ve goals in his side’s 6-1 win Pelé (1958/70), Paul Breitner of West FIFA World Cups. Matthäus appeared in over Cameroon in 1994 – the most goals Germany (1974/82) and Zinédine Zidane a record 25 World Cup matches, although ever scored by one player in a single World of France (1998/2006). Italy’s Paolo Maldini spent more time on Cup match. The list of those who have the pitch – playing a total of 2,217 minutes scored four in a game is also short and 64. Not many players have won an in 23 matches. consists of several players who also rank Olympic Football Tournament and a near the very top of the all-time goalscorer World Cup. Ten Uruguayans and three 57. Pelé is the only player with three list (Poland’s Ernst Wilimowski, Brazil’s Italians, however, managed this achievement World Cup wins to his name (1958, 1962 Ademir, Hungary’s Sándor Kocsis, France’s during the fi rst three World Cups of the and 1970), although he missed most of the Just Fontaine, Portugal’s Eusebio and Spain’s 1930s and the Olympic Football Tournaments 1962 tournament, including the fi nal, due Emilio Butragueño). of 1924, 1928 and 1936. In 1954, Ferenc to injury. His compatriot Cafu is the only Puskás and Sándor Kocsis were part of the player to have played in three consecutive Absent friends Hungarian team who had previously won fi nals (1994-2002). the 1952 Olympic title. But the “Miracle of 61. Although Alfredo Di Stefano is Berne” (West Germany’s unexpected 1954 58. Brazil’s Ronaldo is not only the regarded by many as one of the greatest World Cup triumph) prevented them from World Cup’s all-time top scorer with 15 players of all time, he never played in also lifting the Jules Rimet Trophy. goals, but also the player who has scored a FIFA World Cup. He travelled to Chile in the most matches: 11. He is followed by with the Spanish team in 1962 but a 65. Six players have so far achieved the Germany’s Jürgen Klinsmann who scored last-minute injury meant that he did not mixed fortune of both scoring and being his 11 goals in ten different matches. The play. Barcelona’s Hungarian star László sent off in the same game. Amongst these record for a single tournament is held by Kubala had the same destiny in 1962 and players are Brazil’s Garrincha in 1962 and Frenchman Just Fontaine who scored an only fi nally “appeared” at a World Cup Ronaldinho during the 2002 tournament. in 1978 as Spain’s coach. The last player to manage this “double” Other great players who were was Zinédine Zidane in the 2006 fi nal unfortunate to miss the World against Italy. Cup because of their teams’ failures to qualify are George 66. Italy’s Gianluca Pagliuca is the only Best (Northern Ireland), Allan World Cup goalkeeper ever to have Simonsen (Denmark), Liam been sent off. After 21 minutes of his Brady (Republic of Ireland), side’s 1994 meeting with Norway, he was Eric Cantona (France), Abedi given a red card by German referee Hellmut Pelé (Ghana), George Weah Krug but Italy still won 1-0. (Liberia) and Ryan Giggs (Wales). Young and old

62. Only two men have 67. When Cameroon’s Roger Milla Old friends: Pelé and the Jules Rimet Trophy won a FIFA World Cup as scored a consolation goal for the

62 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Indomitable Lions in a 6-1 trouncing by Russia in 1994, he became the oldest goalscorer in World Cup history at 42 years and 39 days. At the other end of the age scale, Pelé was almost a quarter of a century younger (17 years, 239 days) when he claimed his fi rst World Cup goal against Wales in 1958.

68. At 17 years and 41 days, Northern Ireland’s Norman Whiteside became the youngest World Cup player of all time when he took to the fi eld against “Bora” Milutinovic was the fi rst coach to lead fi ve different countries at the FIFA World Cup. Yugoslavia in 1982. Again, Roger Milla holds the record for being the oldest player, setting the benchmark in the same 74. Serbia’s Velibor “Bora” Milutinovic semi-fi nal once (1970). The 1978 tournament match in which he scored his last World not only coached at fi ve World Cups was the only one to end in disappointment, Cup goal. between 1986 and 2002 but he also did with the defending champions exiting after it with fi ve different teams (Mexico, the second group stage. 69. Marcelo Trobbiani is one of eight Costa Rica, USA, Nigeria and China PR). In players to have offi cially played for just one 2010, Carlos Alberto Parreira will embark 78. The youngest World Cup coach of minute of a FIFA World Cup – but what upon his sixth World Cup campaign and all time is Argentina’s Juan Jose Tramutola. a minute! Trobbiani was an 89th minute match Milutinovic’s list of fi ve different In 1930, aged just 27 years and eight substitute for Argentina during their 3-2 teams as this time he will be taking charge months, he managed a team containing win over West Germany in 1986, coming of the South African hosts following earlier a number of players who were older than on to the pitch just moments before assignments with his native Brazil (twice), him. Conversely, Cesare Maldini, at 70, was receiving his World Cup winner’s medal. Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates old enough to have been the grandfather and Kuwait. Josef “Sepp” Herberger (West of many of his Paraguayan charges in 2002. 70. England’s Peter Shilton managed Germany), his successor Helmut Schön, a total of ten clean sheets at the FIFA Walter Winterbottom (England), Lajos 79. French referee Joel Quiniou offi ciated World Cup between 1982 and 1990. Baróti (Hungary) and Henri Michel (France, a record number of eight matches Fabien Barthez reached the same number Morocco, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire) all between 1986 and 1994. When it comes during his spell between the French posts coached at four different FIFA World Cups. to individual tournaments, Benito Archundia from 1998 to 2006. (Mexico) and Horacio Elizondo (Argentina) 75. Five coaches have reached the fi nal both took charge of a record fi ve matches at 71. Brazilian “super-sub” Denílson can on two occasions: Vittorio Pozzo (Italy, the 2006 FIFA World Cup. Mexican referee be considered one of the most successful 1934/38), Helmut Schön (West Germany, Arturo Brizio Carter holds the record for substitutes in World Cup history, having 1966/74), Mário Zagallo (Brazil, 1970/98), dismissals, sending off seven players in the six come on as a replacement in 11 of the Franz Beckenbauer (West Germany, matches that he offi ciated in 1994 and 1998. 12 matches he played in 1998 and 2002, 1986/90) and Carlos Bilardo (Argentina, fi nishing as a runner-up in 1998 and a 1986/90). Only Pozzo won both times. 80. In 2006, Elizondo also became winner in 2002. the fi rst referee to offi ciate at both the 76. Guus Hiddink and Luiz Felipe Scolari inaugural match and the fi nal of a FIFA Foreign assignments are the only two coaches to have made it World Cup. He refereed Germany’s opener to the semi-fi nals with two different against Costa Rica on 9 June before taking 72. A foreign coach has never teams. Dutchman Hiddink did so with charge of the decisive game between Italy managed a World Cup winning team. the Netherlands in 1998 and the Korea and France exactly one month later. In 1950, Republic co-hosts in 2002, Scolari with England’s George Reader oversaw the 73. Hungarian Jószef Nagy became Brazil in 2002 and Portugal in 2006. opening match between Brazil and Mexico the fi rst coach to compete against his and also the last match of the fi nal group home association when his Swedish side 77. Helmut Schön coached West between Uruguay and Brazil, although the reached the 1938 semi-fi nals, only to crash Germany in 25 World Cup matches. He latter game is not technically considered a out 5-1 to Nagy’s countrymen. reached the fi nal twice (1966, 1974) and the fi nal (see fact number 6).

FIFA WORLD I NEWS 63 64 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 FROM SAMOA TO SOCCER CITY

What began with an original fi eld of 206 national teams, and a qualifying tournament played back in August 2007 on the outskirts of the Samoan capital Apia, has now reached the fi nal phase with the world’s best 32 sides now descending upon South Africa for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™.

New Caledonia celebrated the fi rst win in that South Africa’s automatic spot in the competition long sequence of qualifying matches, beating as tournament hosts has also ensured that more Oceania rivals Tahiti 1-0 at the Toleafoa J.S. African teams than ever will be taking part in this Blatter Complex during a 2007 South Pacifi c FIFA World Cup – with Cameroon, Nigeria, Algeria, Games competition which doubled as the fi rst Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire carrying the continent’s section of regional qualifying for the FIFA World hopes as world football’s most prestigious Cup™. competition fi nally touches down on African soil. With the exception of New Zealand match On the following pages, we take a look at each referee Michael Hester, who oversaw that 2007 of the teams still dreaming of glory, recapping encounter and has now been selected among this their route to the tournament, summing up their year’s World Cup offi cials, none of the opening strengths and assessing the individual players who game’s participants were able to make it all could just make the difference between heartbreak the way to South Africa – Tahiti fell at the fi rst and glory. The fans of football’s traditionally hurdle while New Caledonia had to settle for successful teams will of course be hoping that their the runners-up spot behind eventual Oceania sides’ experience and pedigree can help see them champions New Zealand. through the group stage. But until the opening While there was of course disappointment for game has been played between the South African many, the intervening three years have whittled hosts and Mexico in Soccer City on 11 June, the down the long list of contenders to a highly hopes of all the teams will remain equal. competitive and experienced-looking fi nal 32. One month later, will we see an upset, perhaps Among the fi nal line-up are all seven of the even an African world champion? Or will the tournament’s previous winners (Uruguay, Italy, sport’s established giants again hold sway? The Germany, Brazil, England, Argentina, France) answer of course is almost irrelevant compared and only one debutant, in the form of Slovakia. to the fun we will all have in fi nding out…

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 65 GROUP A – SOUTH AFRICA

South Africa have experienced both highs and lows in the build-up to their home tournament.

As they prepare to stage the biggest the match for third place, the home side FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking would event in their footballing history, South took a 73rd-minute lead against Spain, only suggest. Great things will be expected Africa can look back on a build-up period for the European champions to claw their of Everton winger Steven Pienaar, whose in which they have been, at varying points, way back with a late equaliser, eventually creativity could be vital to strikers such both fantastic and wretched. The country’s going on to win the match 3-2 in extra time. as Katlego Mphela and, if he is called supporters, and a good deal of sympathetic The Confederations Cup highs are only upon, veteran forward Benni McCarthy. neutrals, will take comfort in the fact that part of the story, however, and need to be Wingbacks Siboniso Gaxa and Tsepo by far the biggest highlight came on home considered against the disappointment of Masilela could also keep opposition soil, during the FIFA Confederations Cup failing to qualify for the 2010 Africa Cup defences busy. 2009 – an indication perhaps of how of Nations and the run of eight defeats And then there is the “twelfth man” Bafana Bafana will perform when they in nine games which fi nally saw Santana in the form of the vociferous, vuvuzela- host the most important tournament of ejected from his post. blasting South Africa supporters, whose them all. infl uence was seen not only at the FIFA Under the guidance of then coach Parreira’s return Confederations Cup but also in 1996, when Joel Santana, South Africa exceeded all Now back under the tutelage of former South Africa stepped in to stage the Africa expectations at the 2009 event, reaching boss Carlos Alberto Parreira, himself a Cup of Nations before promptly going the semi-fi nals before fi nally succumbing former FIFA World Cup™ winner with on to win it. A repeat of that feat at the to Brazil, and even then only thanks to a his native Brazil, Bafana Bafana certainly 2010 FIFA World Cup™ may be asking single Daniel Alves goal, scored in the 88th possess a combined talent that adds up too much, but just try telling that to the minute of the match. Three days later, in to more than their current position in the ever-optimistic home fans.

66 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Star player: Steven Pienaar Coach Imaginative, innovative and hard-working, Steven Pienaar is undoubtedly South Africa’s Now in his second best talent at the moment. Since joining English Premier League side Everton, the 28-year- stint as South old midfi elder has re-invented himself and grown both in stature and confi dence. A lot Africa coach, Carlos will be expected from him as he prepares to steer South Africa’s engine and command Alberto Parreira’s his country’s attack. return was greeted A product of the South African School of Excellence, Pienaar is currently the country’s with mixed feelings most successful overseas export. When he is on top form, he has an ability to lift the in South Africa, outfi t and coach Carlos Alberto Parreira will be pinning his hopes on Pienaar’s high although the work-rate and knack for scoring crucial goals. Brazilian’s many supporters are adamant Working in tandem with fellow midfi eld schemer Teko Modise, Pienaar has the that he is the man to lead this side to the ability to dismantle his opponents’ best-laid plans through a rare combination of skill “Promised Land” in 2010. Parreira certainly and composure. Pienaar also boasts valuable experience, having been a member of has the pedigree, having led his native the Bafana Bafana squad that travelled to the 2002 FIFA World Cup Korea/Japan™, country to the beautiful game’s ultimate South Africa’s last appearance prize at the 1994 FIFA World Cup USA™. at the fi nals. Now considered by many Possible line-up to be a genuine South African GK Itumeleng KHUNE football great, Pienaar has D Siboniso GAXA silenced some of his remaining D Tsepo MASILELA detractors by putting in D Aaron MOKOENA a number of powerful D Matthew BOOTH performances in the national MF Kagisho DIKGACOI team colours. It was perfect MF Teko MODISE timing for a man who will MF Siphiwe TSHABALALA shoulder most of the country’s MF Steven PIENAAR hopes as South Africa attempts F Katlego MPHELA to exploit home advantage and F Benni McCARTHY progress to the knockout stages for the fi rst time. Group-stage opponents, head-to-head record MP W D L GF GA FRA 3 0 1 2 1 5 MEX 3 1 0 2 4 9 URU 2 0 1 1 3 4

How they qualifi ed What they said “We are all aware that it is a huge honour to play in a World Cup on home soil; not many players have had such a privilege. South Africa qualifi ed automatically as hosts. We are also aware of the task that lies ahead. For us, the World Cup is our priority, it’s our biggest goal. We need to represent our country with pride.”

Aaron Mokoena, South Africa captain

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 67 GROUP A – MEXICO

Mexican rave: goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa celebrates during last year’s qualifying match win over old rivals, the USA.

If experience counts for anything, then World Cup™, and he was soon picking recalled to international duty by Aguirre, Mexico should certainly be a force to be up where he left off. Taking over with the veteran Veracruz playmaker Cuauhtémoc reckoned with in Group A. Although they team languishing fi fth in the fi nal six-team Blanco seems set for a pivotal role. The have never won the FIFA World Cup™, CONCACAF Zone qualifying group, Aguirre 37-year-old has proved an inspiration unlike group rivals France and Uruguay, produced fi ve wins, one draw and just one to younger players such as goalkeeper they have qualifi ed for the fi nals 14 times defeat to lift Mexico up to second place Guillermo Ochoa, right-back Efrain – more than any other side from the and earn a place in South Africa with one Juárez, left-winger Andrés Guardado and CONCACAF region. This year’s edition game to spare. attacking midfi elder Giovani dos Santos, will be their fi fth fi nals in a row. while Barcelona centre-back Rafa Márquez Continuity was certainly not a theme of All change has skippered the side and helped to the latest qualifying campaign, however, The constant turnover of coaches has been restore discipline and organisation on with three different coaches taking up the refl ected in the vast number of players the pitch. reins since the departure of Hugo Sánchez who have received national team call-ups In addition to France and Uruguay, the in March 2008. Jesús Ramírez lasted for in the past two years – more than 60 in prospect of facing hosts South Africa – and just four games (despite three wins) before all. No fewer than 18 different players their passionate fans – in the tournament’s the arrival of Sven-Göran Eriksson, who contributed goals during the qualifying opening match could be daunting. But now himself managed just 13 matches (and campaign. that the ship has been steadied, Mexico a less impressive six wins) before being Under their latest coach, however, will be hoping to sail into the second round replaced by Javier Aguirre. Mexico have enjoyed something of a and perhaps start plotting a course for Aguirre was the man who ensured return to stability and the core of the team the quarter-fi nals to match their best-ever Mexican qualifi cation for the 2002 FIFA appears to have been decided. After being performances in 1970 and 1986.

68 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Star player: Andrés Guardado Coach After only six months as a professional, this fast left winger shot to fame when, against Javier Aguirre is all odds, and at the age of only 19, he received a call-up to the Mexican senior team Mexico’s most from Ricardo La Volpe for the 2006 FIFA World Cup Germany™. Following an even more successful coach unexpected decision, he was in the starting line-up for the key match against Argentina. of recent times. This irresistible left-footer is a product of the prolifi c youth system at Atlas de He took over at Guadalajara, where he became a key player after his return from Germany. His excellent the helm during performances for Atlas and Mexico soon caught the attention of a number of European Mexico’s faltering clubs, but it was Deportivo la Coruña that managed to secure his services at the beginning bid to qualify for of the 2007-08 season. Korea/Japan 2002. Not only did he manage Thanks to his speed, individual technique to secure a ticket to the World Cup, but and shots from midfi eld, Guardado quickly he steered Mexico to the round of 16. became a starter for the Galician team, Following his departure from Atlético and since then he has become one of the Madrid in early 2009, Aguirre returned club’s major stars, to the extent that he is to Mexico, who were once again in crisis. considered one of the best foreign players He is now preparing for a lengthy stay in in the Spanish Liga. South Africa. Since his breakthrough into the national team, Guardado has been a regular in the Possible line-up Tricolor’s line-up, despite a succession of GK Guillermo OCHOA coaches in the last few years. As well as the D Efrain JUAREZ 2006 FIFA World Cup, he has also played in D Carlos SALCIDO one Copa América and one Gold Cup, as D Rafael MARQUEZ well as the whole qualifying competition for D Ricardo OSORIO South Africa 2010, during which he played MF Israel CASTRO a key role in ensuring Mexico’s qualifi cation. MF Andres GUARDADO Although still only 23, Guardado has MF Giovani DOS SANTOS notched up a total of around 50 appearances MF Gerardo TORRADO in the green shirt, and is known for his fast MF/F Cuauhtemoc BLANCO pace and excellent vision. But he is not only F Alberto MEDINA a playmaker – he can also take advantage of the opportunities he creates himself. He Group-stage opponents, has always made it clear that his objective is to make history with Mexico, and South head-to-head record Africa 2010 will be the perfect setting to achieve that. MP W D L GF GA FRA 6015415 RSA 320194 URU 17 7 7 3 25 21 How they qualifi ed CONCACAF Fourth Round

Mexico v. Home Away USA 2-1 2-0 Costa Rica 2-0 0-3 Honduras 1-0 3-1 What they said El Salvador 4-1 2-1 Trinidad and Tobago 2-1 2-2 “I feel relaxed. Whenever you reach an objective you’ve been brought in to achieve you have the satisfaction of knowing that

Rank Team MP W D L Points you haven’t let down the people who put their faith in you. I am 1 USA 10 6 2 2 20 happy and proud. When I came into the job we were fi fth and nine 2 Mexico 10 61319 points away from fi rst place, and now we’re in the World Cup.” 3 Honduras 10 51416 4 Costa Rica 10 51416 Javier Aguirre 5 El Salvador 10 2 2 6 8 6 T & T10 1366

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 69 GROUP A – URUGUAY

Can the current Uruguay squad emulate their famous forebears?

Uruguay are two-time winners of the FIFA at the regional level there have been 14 home to Argentina, Uruguay picked World Cup™ and will be contesting their Copa América titles, the last of those came themselves up admirably to secure their 11th fi nals in South Africa this year. All very 15 years ago. No wonder the football- place with a 2-1 aggregate play-off win impressive stuff, especially for a country of obsessed Uruguayans are aching for just over Costa Rica. less than four million people, but there is a glimmer of those past glories. In South Africa, the team will hope no hiding from the fact that most of the to show not just grit, but also fl air, with team’s glory lies far in the past. Fighting back Atlético Madrid marksman Diego Forlán The South Americans’ fi rst tournament Progressing to the knock-out stages would one of the likeliest to provide the latter, triumph came as early as it gets, at the be seen by many supporters as cause for especially if his seven goals in qualifying very fi rst 1930 FIFA World Cup™, played celebration, and there are reasons to are anything to go by. Uruguay’s infl uential in Uruguay itself. They then famously upset believe that this target is attainable. It is captain Diego Lugano is meanwhile Brazil when the Brazilians had their own true that qualifi cation was a laboured affair, expected to epitomise both characteristics chance to stage the competition in 1950, with Óscar Tabárez’s men looking all but as a hard-working defender who also likes silencing the packed-out Maracanã stadium out of contention following a defeat to to press forward. by beating the sport’s superpower 2-1 in bottom side Peru in September 2009. But If they are to rekindle memories of their the tournament’s decisive game. the side showed plenty of their country’s illustrious past, the Uruguayans may have It is 40 years since La Celeste (the Sky legendary garra or “grit” (see article on to break the hearts of the tournament Blues) got beyond the last 16, with a run page 74) to claw their way back into the hosts, who they face in their second game. to the semi-fi nals of the 1970 FIFA World running. They have done it before of course, as Cup Mexico™. They did not even make it Although they missed out on any Brazilian who has lived long enough to the 2006 edition in Germany, and while automatic qualifi cation after losing at will recall.

70 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Star player: Diego Forlán Coach Diego Forlán is one of the undisputed leaders of Óscar Tabárez’s Uruguayan side, and Óscar Washington arrives at South Africa 2010 having reached full footballing maturity and conscious that Tabárez is preparing this could be the World Cup that sees him established as an elite goalscorer. for his second His 40 goals in 91 matches for Independiente inspired Manchester United’s Sir Alex appearance at Ferguson to sign him in early 2002. However, Forlán did not live up to expectations, the FIFA World and although United won three titles during his period Cup finals with there he left in August 2004 for Spanish side Villarreal. Uruguay. Tabárez Forlán recovered his form there and in his fi rst season was the man in the his 25 goals earned him the Pichichi award for the hotseat when Los Charrúas were knocked Liga’s top goalscorer and the European Golden Shoe. out in the round of 16 at Italia ‘90 by the Following another two successful seasons, he transferred host nation. Since then he has worked at to Atlético Madrid, where he scored 23 goals in the some of the biggest clubs in world football, 2007-08 season and 35 in 2008-09, earning him another among them Peñarol, Boca Juniors and AC Pichichi award and the Golden Shoe. At the end of the Milan. Now, 20 years on from Italia ‘90, El season just completed, he inspired Atlético to their fi rst Maestro is set to return to the big stage major European trophy in over three decades, scoring with a youthful and resilient side. both the team’s goals in May’s 2-1 UEFA Europa League victory over Fulham. Possible line-up He made his debut for Uruguay under Víctor Púa on GK Juan CASTILLO 27 March 2002 in a friendly against Saudi Arabia in Ad- D Maximiliano PEREIRA Damman, during which he scored his fi rst international D Martin CACERES goal (2-3). A few months later he took part in his fi rst FIFA World Cup™, Korea/Japan D Diego LUGANO 2002, and scored a goal in the only match he played, against Senegal on the day D Diego GODIN Uruguay were eliminated (3-3). MF Walter GARGANO Since then, Forlán has been a regular on the national team. Óscar Tabárez included MF Sebastian EGUREN him in the starting line-up from the beginning of the qualifying competition for South MF Diego PEREZ Africa 2010 and he responded as he does best: he was Uruguay’s top scorer, with MF Jorge RODRIGUEZ seven goals in 13 matches. F Luis SUAREZ F Diego FORLAN How they qualifi ed, South American Group / Play-off* Group-stage opponents, Uruguay v. Home Away head-to-head record Bolivia 5-0 2-2 MP W D L GF GA Paraguay 2-0 1-0 FRA 5 2 2 1 7 4 Chile 2-2 0-0 MEX 17 3 7 72125 Brazil 0-4 2-1 RSA 2 1 1 0 4 3 Venezuela 1-1 2-2 Peru 6-0 1-0 Colombia 3-1 0-1 Ecuador 0-0 1-2 Argentina 0-1 2-1 Costa Rica* 1-1 0-1

Rank Team MP W D L Points What they said 1 Brazil 18 9 7 2 34 “We had to work hard to qualify, especially in the games in 2 Chile 18 10 3 5 33 Montevideo. Luckily for us, though, the World Cup’s taking place 3 Paraguay 18103533 far away from home! I know we have to improve a lot if we are 4 Argentina 1884628 5 Uruguay 1866624 to perform well in South Africa but we do have a lot of strong 6 Ecuador 1865723 points and we hope to be able to show them.” 7Colombia 1865723 8Venezuela 1864822 Óscar Tabárez 9 Bolivia 18 4 3 11 15 10 Peru 18341113

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 71 GROUP A – FRANCE

The French players celebrate after scoring in the fi rst leg of their play-off against the Republic of Ireland.

By their own lofty standards, France was the fact that France had secured four times in 11 games. Chelsea’s Nicolas had a poor qualifi cation campaign, and their fourth successive FIFA World Cup™ Anelka and Bayern winger Franck Ribéry even when they had made sure of their appearance – a fi rst for the country. And should also provide plenty of attacking place in South Africa, the celebrations with qualifi cation campaigns often having threat. were overshadowed by the furore that little bearing on how a team performs at William Gallas should be as strong as followed that play-off goal against the the tournament itself, only a fool would ever at the back, while Jeremy Toulalan Republic of Ireland. write off French chances, four years on and Lassana Diarra have made the midfi eld Thierry Henry’s “helping hand” to set up from their defeat on penalties to Italy in their own. Relative youngsters like Yoann the extra-time winner scored by William the 2006 fi nal. Gourcuff could really announce themselves Gallas provided an unsavoury end to a to the world, but much depends on which stuttering run of results which had also Talented Thierry France side turns up in South Africa. included an embarrassing 3-1 defeat in Although his hand ball dominated the post- In April, Domenech called for his players Austria and uninspiring draws in Romania qualifi cation headlines, it is still Henry’s to set their egos to one side and work for and Serbia, the latter going on to secure feet that opposition defences will want to the greater good of the team. If they heed a surprise fi rst spot in France’s qualifying pay most attention to in South Africa. The those words, a repeat of their success at the group. Barcelona striker was joint top-scorer with 1998 FIFA World Cup™ is certainly possible. What many overlooked in all the fuss Toulouse forward André-Pierre Gignac If not, the disarray of their disastrous 2002 surrounding the nature of their qualifi cation during the qualifying campaign, fi ring in performance could also be repeated.

72 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Star player: Thierry Henry Coach Following his role in France’s controversial qualifi cation play-off against the Republic of “Paradoxical” Ireland, Thierry Henry will no doubt be keen to write more positive headlines when it is probably the comes to the tournament proper. Whether or not he succeeds in doing so, his impact adjective that best on French football has already been monumental. defines how the As a World Cup and European championship winner and France’s all-time top French public have goalscorer, he boasts a long list of achievements. By the age of 17, Henry was already perceived Raymond playing for French fi rst division side AS Monaco. While he was there, he accumulated Domenech since playing time, gained experience and excelled in his appointment the 1997-98 UEFA Champions League during an in 2004. Praised for his communication exceptional season that also included his debut for skills on his arrival, he was later criticised for the French national side, with which he would go errors in precisely that area after a chaotic on to win the FIFA World Cup a few months later. showing at EURO 2008. And although As the World Cup-winning team’s top goalscorer he has yet to win a trophy, he does boast (with three goals), he signed for Juventus a few the longest reign in the history of the months later, but failed to make an impact there. national squad, with a World Cup fi nal as Criticised for his inability to establish himself within its highlight. the ranks of the “Old Lady”, he then joined Arsenal, managed by his mentor Arsène Wenger. Possible line-up Once with the Gunners, Henry moved to the GK Hugo LLORIS position of centre forward and the goals just kept D Bakari SAGNA on coming, turning him into a living legend at D William GALLAS Highbury where he surpassed the total number D Eric ABIDAL of goals scored by Ian Wright, until then the top scorer in the club’s history. He won D Patrice EVRA two English Premier League titles and three FA Cups. Meanwhile, he had established MF Yoann GOURCUFF himself as the spearhead of Les Bleus’ attack, experiencing both success by winning MF Lassana DIARRA EURO 2000 and disappointment at the 2002 World Cup. MF Jeremy TOULALAN His only regret during his time at Highbury was that he never won the prestigious MF Franck RIBERY Champions League, despite coming very close in 2006 against Barcelona. Yet, three F Thierry HENRY years later, it was in Barca’s colours that he fi nally held aloft the famous trophy, having F Nicolas ANELKA joined the Catalan side in the summer of 2007. Alongside Lionel Messi and Samuel Eto’o he formed part of an explosive trio and was part of Josep Guardiola’s armada Group-stage opponents, which collected six titles in 2009. So will the insatiable Henry treat himself to yet another head-to-head record World Cup title in 2010? MP W D L GF GA MEX 6 5 1 0 15 4 RSA 3 2 1 0 5 1 How they qualifi ed URU 5 1 2 2 4 7 European Group 7 / Play-off*

France v. Home Away Austria 3-1 3-1 Serbia 2-1 1-1 Romania 1-1 2-2 Lithuania 1-0 0-1 Faroe Islands 5-0 0-1 What they said “The objective was to qualify. We knew it wouldn’t be easy, but Republic of Ireland* 1-1 a.e.t. 0-1 I never had any doubts. We’ve had diffi culties for two years now,

Rank Team MP W D L Points but everyone kept believing and they were justifi ed in doing so. 1 Serbia 10 7 1 2 22 We worked hard to earn our right to take part in something 2 France10 63121 exceptional – a World Cup in South Africa.” 3 Austria 10 4 2 4 14 4 Lithuania 10 4 0 6 12 Raymond Domenech 5 Romania10 33412 6 Faroe Islands10 1184

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 73 RECONNECTING WITH THE PAST

A glorious past: Juan Schiaffi no scores Uruguay’s opening goal in their famous 2-1 upset of Brazil at the 1950 FIFA World Cup™.

By Pablo Aro Geraldes, Montevideo

“Where on earth is Uruguay?” the of the nation: Uruguay was not a mistake. competition in 1950 following the Second Parisian crowd was reported to have Football pulled this tiny country out of World War, and once again the festivities wondered aloud back in 1924 as they the shadows of universal anonymity,” took on a sky-blue hue, even if today we watched the South Americans playing wrote Eduardo Galeano in his classic book can only look back on it in black and white. Yugoslavia off the park to the fi nal of Football in Sun and Shadow. Sixty years later, Uruguay’s footballing the Olympic Football Tournament 7-0. It The Uruguayans repeated their Olympic supremacy can only be found in history seemed the tournament’s organisers were victory four years later in Amsterdam, books or in the fond narratives of equally in the dark. Before the match they proving what some had started to suspect grandfathers who reminisce about the had displayed the Uruguayan fl ag upside in 1924: Uruguayan football was the best exploits of José Nasazzi, the fi rst legend down, with the sun at the bottom, and on the planet. This was confi rmed in of South American football, back in 1930. played a Brazilian march instead of the 1930, when the country hosted and won They recall with nostalgia the confi dence Uruguayan national anthem. the fi rst-ever FIFA World Cup™. After and composure of team captain Obdulio Nevertheless, Uruguay’s ability on the boycotting the 1934 and 1938 tournaments Varela before leading his men to one of the football pitch was incontestable. “The in retaliation for several European no- sport’s greatest-ever upsets in the cauldron sky-blue shirt was proof of the existence shows in 1930, Uruguay returned to the of Brazil’s packed-out Maracanã stadium.

74 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 While the Uruguayans seemed to have players who emerged in subsequent years, Although the performances may have shot almost inexplicably to the top of the those who were unable to match the dipped, the passion and belief of the fans footballing ladder in those early years, a technical prowess of their predecessors. is still best summed up in the words of closer look at the country’s social make-up Galeano, who wrote that “Uruguayan back then helps to explain the puzzle. A matter of defi nition football is a far cry from what it used to Between these extremes, there is plenty of be … Nevertheless, there is no Uruguayan African seeds scope for individual Uruguayans to form who does not consider himself a Ph.D in The seeds of Uruguay’s winning spirit their own defi nitions of garra – or indeed tactics and strategy, and a scholar of its were sown when they won the fi rst South to reject the concept altogether. history. Uruguayans’ passion for football American tournament in Buenos Aires in “Obviously you have to have spirit, but comes from those days long ago, and its 1916. This was the fi rst-ever continental I’m not a believer in garra,” top scorer of deep roots are still visible. Every time the tournament, and Uruguay was the only the current Uruguay team Diego Forlán told national team plays, no matter against country in the world to have black players, FIFA World. “Garra is misinterpreted. You whom, the country holds its breath. the great-grandsons of slaves, on its team. always have to give it your all on the pitch, Politicians, singers and street vendors shut Uruguay was a tiny and united country, but a lot of countries play very well, even their mouths, lovers suspend their kisses brought together by European immigrants though they don’t have Uruguay’s garra and fl ies stop fl ying”. who arrived on the banks of the River Plate and determination, and they win more Despite the malaise in Uruguayan with no greater ambition than to work important titles than us. By misinterpreting football, the national team’s participation and build themselves a future. This small garra, we have been achieving poor results. in the FIFA World Cup is an opportunity for country was known as “the Switzerland Football changed, but we didn’t and if we Uruguayans to stand proud and hold their of the Americas”: it had the strongest don’t start to change, things are going to heads high, particularly when they see democracy in the South, and after the two keep getting worse, and all the garra in the their fl ag raised once again alongside the world wars extended credit to European world won’t help us. We can’t always be other former champions of Italy, Germany, countries. Uruguay was an educated, on the counter-attack, we have to be the Brazil, England, Argentina and France. orderly and free nation, and Montevideo protagonists.” And there it will always fl y, thanks to the was seen as a “European” city transplanted Forlán would appear to have an triumphs of 1930 and 1950. Although to the River Plate. Ahead of its time, offi cial important ally in the form of Uruguay Forlán’s rocker look is far removed from state policy promoted physical education coach Oscar Tabárez, who also takes a the tango style of gentlemen such as in public schools and built sports fi elds more pragmatic approach to the fans’ Nasazzi and Varela, the 2010 edition will around the country. The heroes from the insistence on garra. allow Uruguayans to once again recall sepia photos would not have got to where “It means insisting on footballing their glorious past and dream that it might they were without these conditions. concepts regardless of the kind of situation be resurrected, if not in the present then Since then, it seems, the rest of the that presents itself,” Tabárez told FIFA perhaps in the near future. world has caught up and even overtaken World. “It means coming through in the Uruguayans. With football a passionate diffi cult moments against top-class rivals. pastime in almost every country in the That’s garra, not the misinterpretations, world, this small nation of just 3.3 million like terrifying opponents, lashing out in inhabitants can no longer aspire to hold frustration or forgetting how to play the their own against the likes of Brazil or ball. I wish we had more young, talented Argentina – or at least not on a regular players coming through but our problem basis. is demographic. We just don’t have the And then there is the concept of “garra” quantity of good players that is available – a term that can perhaps best be loosely in much bigger countries like Argentina translated as “grit”, something which many or Brazil.” of the country’s fanatical fans insist upon seeing in anyone wearing the Uruguayan A return to glory? shirt. It is a term that some have imbued Although there are less than 3.5 million with romanticism, expanding it to include Uruguayans, it seems, when you walk the the resolve of the supposed underdogs streets of the country’s biggest cities, that who became world champions in 1930 and almost every one of those – man, woman 1950. For others it can be a negative term, and child – will be piling their expectations more often applied to the aggressive style of on the national football team in South Present danger: Uruguay’s current top scorer play resorted to by many of the Uruguayan Africa this year. Diego Forlán

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 75 GROUP B – ARGENTINA

Gabriel Heinze, goalscorer Sergio Agüero and Esteban Cambiasso celebrate during the fi rst of two vital wins over South American rivals Uruguay.

Until the late reprieve, it was a FIFA The roller-coaster ride continued in April Atlético Madrid striker Sergio Agüero hit four World Cup™ qualifying campaign which when a pride-restoring 1-0 home win over in 12, while Boca Juniors midfi elder Juan most Argentine fans would rather forget. the Colombians was followed four days Riquelme scored four in nine. Astonishingly, Starting it under the leadership of coach later by a 2-0 away defeat to Ecuador. In Manchester City goal machine Carlos Tévez Alfi o Basile, La Albiceleste (the Sky Blue and September, Brazil got only their second- got just one goal in 12 run-outs. Whites) began well with wins against Chile, ever away win (1-3) in Argentina, and Argentina last won the FIFA World Cup Venezuela and Bolivia, but an away defeat the fi rst calls were heard for Maradona in 1986 and before that they were the to Colombia in November 2007 damaged to step down. He clung on, however, victorious hosts in 1978. They won the the side’s confi dence. Four draws followed, even despite a further 1-0 defeat in FIFA Confederations Cup in 1992, but their including a creditable 0-0 with Brazil in Belo Paraguay, before hard-fought wins over only major success since then came in the Horizonte, but the delight of a 2-1 home win Peru and Uruguay in October last year 1993 Copa América. over Uruguay in October 2008 faded when fi nally secured Argentina’s place at South Despite the diffi culty of their path to Argentina suffered their fi rst-ever defeat (1- Africa 2010. South Africa, the Argentina squad is 0) to Chile. The humiliation led coach Basile clearly blessed with immense talent, and to resign, but spirits were lifted when Diego Problems scoring if Maradona proves his doubters wrong by Maradona took charge the following month. Ironically, for a side coached by such a turning out to be just a fraction as good a In March last year, El Pibe de Oro (the supreme former attacker, a lot of Argentina’s manager as he was as a player, the South Golden Boy) got a dream start when problems have stemmed from their inability Americans could yet be the tournament’s Argentina beat Venezuela 4-0. But in to score. In 18 games they conceded 20, surprise package. Maradona may have to April came a 6-1 humbling by Bolivia in but found the net only 23 times. Barcelona start as he means to go on, however. Their La Paz – equalling Argentina’s record defeat maestro and FIFA World Player of the Year tournament begins on 12 June at Ellis Park (against Czechoslovakia at the 1958 FIFA Lionel Messi featured in all 18 qualifi ers, yet against Nigeria, probably their toughest World Cup™). La Pulga (the Flea) scored only four goals. Group B opponents.

76 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Star player: Lionel Messi Coach Several Argentinian footballers have had to pursue their careers under the weight of Considered by many being labelled the next Diego Maradona. But few, perhaps even none, have had as to be the finest many of the qualities necessary to live up to that label as Lionel Messi. player ever to have He is left-footed, has good vision, feints that unbalance the opposition, and sublime set foot on a pitch, technique. He is a constant threat to the opposing defence. Diego Armando He was just 13 when his family emigrated to Spain, at the Maradona now has height of Argentina’s economic crisis. Once in Barcelona, Messi the opportunity to was invited to a trial at Camp Nou, where he was spotted by repeat as a coach youth team coach Carles Rexach. “I noticed him straight away, his greatest achievement as a player. and just to make sure I made him sign for the club on the back Straight-talking, impulsive and a born of a paper napkin,” he would later recall. winner, Maradona retains the same aura Barça offered to pay for the medical treatment he needed he exuded during his playing days. Having to stimulate his growth hormones, which Argentinian clubs steered his side into the fi nals, albeit with had been unable to afford, preventing them from signing him. diffi culty, he now faces a challenge he has Messi made his offi cial debut in La Liga at the end of 2004, already risen to once in his career. but 2005 was the year his career really took off. With his fi rst goal, in May against Albacete, he became the youngest Possible line-up goalscorer in the club’s history, a record that was not broken until 2008 by Spanish GK Sergio ROMERO player Bojan. D Nicolas OTAMENDI Between 2009 and 2010, Messi fi rmly established himself with Barcelona, with whom D Gabriel HEINZE he has now won four Spanish league titles, the Copa del Rey, the European Super Cup, D Martin DEMICHELIS three Spanish Super Cups, two UEFA Champions Leagues, the FIFA Club World Cup D Nicolas BURDISSO and the FIFA World Player of the Year award. MF Javier MASCHERANO With Argentina, Messi participated in the 2006 FIFA World Cup Germany™, although MF Maxi RODRIGUEZ he watched their elimination against Germany from the substitutes’ bench. He won MF Juan Sebastian VERON Olympic gold in Beijing in 2008, but had to content himself with second place in the MF Lionel MESSI Copa América in 2007. Already revered both as one of the world’s most talented players, F Carlos TEVEZ if Argentina win the FIFA World Cup in South Africa, Lionel Messi will become a legend. F Sergio AGUERO

How they qualifi ed Group-stage opponents, South American Group head-to-head record MP W D L GF GA Nigeria v. Home Away GRE 1 1 0 0 4 0 Chile 2-0 1-0 KOR 2 2 0 0 4 1 Venezuela 4-0 0-2 NIG 3 2 1 0 3 1 Bolivia 3-0 6-1 Colombia 1-0 2-1 Ecuador 1-1 2-0 Brazil 1-3 0-0 Paraguay 1-1 1-0 Peru 2-1 1-1 Uruguay 2-1 0-1 What they said “I tell my players that 30 days of sacrifi ce for the chance to kiss Rank Team MP W D L Points the World Cup is nothing in the life of a man. An achievement 1 Brazil18 97234 like that is like touching the sky. I played in World Cups and I 2 Chile 18 10 3 5 33 reached two fi nals. I know what it takes. I know how to lead the 3 Paraguay 18103533 4 Argentina 1884628 group and how to coach the players. I’ve earned the right to talk 5 Uruguay 1866624 about the subject. I didn’t come eighth, ninth or get knocked out 6 Ecuador 1865723 in the fi rst round. I know something about this.” 7Colombia1865723 8Venezuela1864822 Diego Maradona 9Bolivia18431115 10Peru18341113

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 77 GROUP B – NIGERIA

The only 2010 FIFA World Cup™ participants whose qualifying campaign included a victory in South Africa, Nigeria were unbeaten in 12 games as they swiftly went about making sure of their return to the country for this year’s fi nals. Under the direction of then coach Shaibu Amodu, the Nigerians beat South Africa home and away when they entered the fray in the second stage of African qualifi cation – and indeed won all six of their matches to top their group by a whopping 11-point margin. The decisive third stage proved a much closer affair. Although remaining unbeaten, Nigeria did drop points – most surprisingly when they were held to a goalless draw in Mozambique. Two further draws with nearest rivals Tunisia then saw Amodu’s men locked in a tight tussle with the North Africans, which only ended in Nigeria’s favour after a come-from-behind 3-2 away win over Kenya. Altogether, Nigeria recorded nine wins in qualifying and three draws, scoring 20 goals and conceding just fi ve. Inter winger Victor Obinna and Real Zaragoza striker Ikechukwu Uche each hit four, while Yakubu Aiyegbeni, Peter Odemwingie, Obafemi Martins and team skipper Joseph Yobo each got two.

Amodu misses out Nigeria were one of the tournament favourites going into the 2010 CAF Africa Cup of Nations, a tournament they won in 1980 and 1994. A disappointing 1-0 semi- fi nal defeat to Ghana cost Nigeria boss Shaibu Amodu his job, however, prompting memories of 2002 when Amodu also steered Nigeria to World Cup qualifi cation only to be dismissed after the team “only” fi nished third in the continental Nigeria were unbeaten throughout their qualifying campaign for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™. championship. In Amodu’s place comes Swedish trainer Lars Lagerbäck, who happened to coach his home country top-class midfi eld anchor in the shape of falling at the fi rst hurdle in 2002), Nigeria against Nigeria at the 2002 tournament. Chelsea’s Jon Obi Mikel. Having reached are unlikely to give any opponent an easy Although in a tricky group, Nigeria have the last 16 in two of their three previous ride this time around, especially now that some impressive fi repower upfront and a FIFA World Cup™ appearances (before they are playing on their home continent.

78 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Star player: Joseph Yobo Coach The most consistent central defender in Nigeria’s squad, Joseph Yobo has been a mainstay Lars Lagerbäck is in the side since making his debut as a 20-year-old against Zambia in 2001. Fast, strong, a new addition to good in the air and relatively comfortable on the ball, Yobo is one of Africa’s fi nest the Nigeria set-up, back-line products. He also occupies a leadership position for the Super Eagles and is having taken over capable of inspiring the team all the way forward from the back. from previous coach After helping the U-20 national team reach the quarter-fi nals of the 1999 FIFA Shaibu Amodu in U-20 World Cup, the emerging player proved he was ready for the full national team February following in time for the 2002 FIFA World Cup™. He played in all three matches for the Super the Super Eagles’ Eagles in Korea and Japan, and though they were eliminated from the so-called third-place fi nish at the 2010 CAF Africa “group of death” with just one point Cup of Nations. The 61-year-old Lagerbäck and one goal, he provided the assist led his native Sweden for over a decade, for that solitary strike against Sweden part of the time as co-manager with and generally gave a good account of Tommy Söderberg, taking them to the himself throughout the tournament. knockout stages of the 2002 and 2006 His impressive showing earned him FIFA World Cups™ as well as to three attention from several big clubs before consecutive European Championships. he was snapped up by English Premier League side Everton. Possible line-up Though the highly fancied West GK Vincent ENYEAMA Africans missed out on a place at the D Chidi ODIAH 2006 FIFA World Cup Germany™, D Taye TAIWO Yobo was a key fi gure in the teams D Joseph YOBO that fi nished third at the CAF Africa D Danny SHITTU Cup of Nations in 2002, 2004, 2006 MF Kalu UCHE and 2010 and reached the quarter-fi nal MF Sani KAITA stage in 2008. MF John Obi MIKEL His value for Nigeria was again MF Victor OBINNA shown in the qualifying campaign for F Nwankwo KANU the 2010 FIFA World Cup™. Making F Yakubu AIYEGBENI a total of nine appearances, Yobo’s personal highlight was back-to-back Group-stage opponents, matches against Sierra Leone and head-to-head record Equatorial Guinea where the defender scored the only goal in each encounter. He was MP W D L GF GA also in the side that came from behind to win 3-2 in Kenya to book Nigeria’s place in ARG 3 0 1 2 1 3 the South Africa fi nals. GRE 2 1 0 1 2 2 In his personal life, he is married to a former Miss Nigeria, and has formed the Joseph KOR 3 0 1 2 3 5 Yobo Foundation to help under-privileged youngsters in his homeland.

How they qualifi ed African Third Round, Group B

Nigeria v. Home Away Mozambique 1-0 0-0 What they said Kenya 3-0 2-3 “We know that we will have a tough job at the World Cup. We Tunisia 2-2 0-0 are up against some tough teams like Argentina, with top players like [Lionel] Messi. It’s important for us to prove that we can play Rank Team MP W D L Points our own game against the best.” 1 Nigeria 6 3 3 012 2 Tunisia 6 3 2 111 Nigeria forward Chinedu Obasi 3 Mozambique 6 2 1 37 4 Kenya 6 1 0 53

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 79 GROUP B – KOREA REPUBLIC

Promising winger Lee Dong-Gook celebrates after scoring in his team’s March friendly win over Côte d’Ivoire.

Korea Republic’s fans endured a team had reached the semis, with the often missed the killer touch and ended lengthy wait of more than three decades South Koreans bettering North Korea’s up drawing half of their 14 matches. between their fi rst FIFA World Cup™ fi nals quarter-fi nal showing at the 1966 FIFA As they look once again to up their game appearance in 1954 and their second at World Cup™. in South Africa, they will of course be Mexico 1986. Since then, however, they At the 2006 FIFA World Cup™ in heavily reliant on South Korea’s undisputed have been ever-present at world football’s Germany, under another Dutch boss in football star, ball-playing skipper Park fl agship event – an impressive run which the shape of Dick Advocaat, Korea Republic Ji-Sung, who netted five goals in 11 now sees the team preparing for their then achieved their fi rst World Cup win qualifi cation matches. Plenty of others will seventh consecutive tilt at glory. outside Asia, a 2-1 victory over Togo in be looking to impress, however, including Despite their regional superiority, the Frankfurt. Thanks to a late equaliser by 21-year-old midfi elder Ki Sung-Yueng, who South Koreans have generally struggled Manchester United star Park Ji-Sung, they is considered one of his nation’s brightest in the global arena, with the one huge even secured a creditable 1-1 draw with young talents, along with pacy winger Lee exception of their 2002 showing when eventual runners-up France, but were Chung-Yong, another 21-year-old who will co-hosting the tournament with Japan. unable to get anywhere near repeating celebrate his 22nd birthday in South Africa With Guus Hiddink as coach, the the heroics of 2002 after crashing out if his team get as far as the quarter-fi nals. Taeguk Warriors got that year’s 2-0 to Switzerland in their fi nal group- Expecting another last-four fi nish may be campaign off to a great start with a stage match. unrealistic, but the Koreans will certainly be 2-0 victory over Poland, before upsetting keen to show that they have learned from such major European sides as Portugal, Seven draws their early exit four years ago. Something Italy and Spain to reach the semi-fi nals, Although rarely in danger of missing out in between the highs of 2002 and the low where they fi nally succumbed 1-0 to on this year’s edition during a qualifying of 2006 would surely satisfy the majority Germany. It was the fi rst time an Asian campaign free of defeat, the Koreans of the team’s fans.

80 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Star player: Park Ji-Sung Coach As nicknames such as “oxygen tank” and “three lungs” indicate, Park Ji-Sung is a The appointment of workhorse who never stops running. Now a regular member of Manchester United’s Huh Jung-Moo in superstar line-up, the 29-year-old attacking midfi elder has become an icon of Korean December 2007 put football since his meteoric emergence from virtual obscurity. an end to the Dutch Park fi rst caught the eye of current Korea Republic coach Huh Jung-Moo in 1999, influence under when Park was turning out for Myongji University for a friendly against the national the likes of Guus team which Huh was managing at the time on an interim basis. The coach surprised Hiddink and Dick many of the country’s supporters Advocaat. Despite when he decided to take Park to the a sluggish start to their AFC qualifying following year’s Olympic Football campaign, the former Korea Republic Tournament in Sydney, where the midfi elder silenced his critics by guiding player went on to feature in all three his experimental side into the fi nals with of his team’s matches. two games to spare. Huh was an interim Two years later he had established coach of Korea Republic twice before, and himself as a regular in the senior led the U-23 side at the Men’s Olympic team, in time to play a key role in Football Tournament Sydney 2000. Korea Republic’s groundbreaking success under the guidance of Guus Possible line-up Hiddink at the 2002 FIFA World Cup GK LEE Woon Jae Korea/Japan. The tireless midfi elder D OH Beom Seok played in Korea Republic’s seven D LEE Young Pyo matches on home soil, scoring the D CHO Yong Hyung only goal of their fi nal group stage D KANG Min Soo win over Portugal before helping the MF PARK Ji Sung Taeguk Warriors to a shock fourth- MF CHO Won Hee place fi nish. MF KI Sung Yueng Following Hiddink to PSV MF LEE Chung Yong Eindhoven before making his high- F LEE Keun Ho profi le switch to Manchester United, F LEE Dong Gook Park then returned to World Cup action in 2006. The Koreans were Group-stage opponents, unable to match their heroics of four years earlier, but again Park was an integral member head-to-head record of the team, scoring the equaliser in a hard-fought 1-1 draw with eventual fi nalists France. MP W D L GF GA Now captaining the national side, and top-scoring for them during the qualifying ARG 2 0 0 2 1 4 campaign for South Africa, Park will be relishing the chance to write more footballing GRE 2 1 1 0 2 1 history on his third showing at the FIFA World Cup™, particularly since he has already NIG 3 2 1 0 5 3 indicated that this could be his last appearance at world football’s biggest event.

How they qualifi ed Asian Fourth Round, Group B

Korea Rep v. Home Away Iran 1-1 1-1 Korea DPR 1-0 1-1 UAE 4-1 0-2 Saudi Arabia 0-0 0-2 What they said Rank Team MP W D L Points “This will be the last chapter in my football life. I will put all my 1 Korea Rep.844016 energy into achieving good results in the World Cup.” 2 Korea DPR833212 3 Saudi Arabia833212 Huh Jung-Moo 4 Iran825111 5 UAE 80171

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 81 GROUP B – GREECE

Will Greece be able to score their fi rst-ever World Cup goal in South Africa?

It seemed almost unthinkable that When the Swiss famously slipped up at He will of course be keener to remind Greece could part company with their home to Luxembourg, Greece appeared to his men of their achievements of six years legendary German coach Otto Rehhagel be in a commanding position. But Rehhagel ago, and indeed still counts a surprising following the heroics of their totally then lost out in a clash of German trainers, number of the 2004 heroes among the unexpected European Championship as Switzerland coach Ottmar Hitzfeld list of players who contributed to the triumph together in 2004. But failure to turned the tables by infl icting home and successful qualifying campaign for 2010. qualify for the 2006 FIFA World Cup™ away defeats on the Greeks in Piraeus and The most obvious is skipper Angelos followed by a lacklustre Euro 2008 – Basel. As the Swiss celebrated top spot in Charisteas, the man who scored the in which the Greeks became the fi rst the group, Rehhagel’s men were forced to winner in the 2004 fi nal against Portugal, reigning champions not to earn a single come through a tight play-off with Ukraine. but there are also the experienced point in defence of their European midfi elders Georgios Karagounis and crown – certainly heaped the pressure Pointless in 1994 Kostas Katsouranis, as well as goalkeeper on Rehhagel’s bosses at the Greek FA. The Greek fans do not have fond memories Konstantinos Chalkias, an understudy Their decision to stick with the wily of their side’s previous FIFA World Cup fi nals to Antonios Nikopolidis in Portugal six 71-year-old tactician has paid off, however, appearance, when they came home early years ago. with Rehhagel having now steered the from USA ’94 without managing either Greece could certainly do with making national team to only their second-ever a point or a single goal. Some have seen a good start against Korea Republic in FIFA World Cup™ finals. Again the worrying similarities in the opposition faced their opening game on 12 June. Recent campaign was not without its critics, in that tournament (Argentina, Nigeria and history, however, is on the side of the many of whom believed Greece should Bulgaria) and in the upcoming campaign Asians who managed a 1-1 draw and 1-0 have been more convincing in a group (Argentina, Nigeria and Korea Republic) but win over Rehhagel’s men in two friendly containing Switzerland, Latvia, Israel, Rehhagel has shrugged off any comparison matches played on neutral territory in 2006 Luxembourg and Moldova. between events 16 years apart. and 2007.

82 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Star player: Angelos Charisteas Coach The forward Angelos Charisteas will of course be remembered in the history of Greek South Africa 2010 football as the scorer of the only goal in the fi nal of EURO 2004 against Portugal, will be coach Otto earning the Greeks the title of European champions. Rehhagel’s fi rst FIFA The towering striker (1.91m) started his professional career in 1997 and has since played World Cup finals, for some of the best clubs in Europe. He started out with non-league side Strimonikos where, at 71, he Serron before moving to Aris Thessaloniki, where his goals contributed to the club’s is set to be the promotion to the top division in Greek football that same year. oldest strategist His good scoring rate resulted in a transfer to German club Werder Bremen in on show. After 2002, where he continued improving his statistics, both in the Bundesliga and the a glittering career in his homeland, the then UEFA Cup. 2004 was his year, German boss has earned recognition for and in addition to the European his achievements with the Greek national Championship, he also won the team. Six years after winning their only Bundesliga and the Cup in Germany. European title and 16 years after their last But he was not a regular on the fi rst participation in a World Cup, King Otto team, and therefore moved to Dutch has returned Greece to the football elite. side Ajax in the hope of making more appearances. GK Alexandros TZORVAS Henk Ten Cate’s arrival at the D Vasileios TOROSIDIS club meant that Charisteas was D Nikos SPIROPOULOS now considered the fi fth forward D Vangelis MORAS in the squad, and so he decided to D Sotirios KYRGIAKOS move to Germany or England, but MF Alexandros TZIOLIS in the end signed for neighbouring MF Kostas KATSOURANIS club Feyenoord, where he also failed MF Georgios KARAGOUNIS to settle in. Finally, his current club MF Dimitrios SALPINGIDIS Nuremberg signed him in 2007, F Theofanis GEKAS although they loaned him to Bayer F Angelos CHARISTEAS Leverkusen for a year in 2009. He made his debut for the Greek national side in 2001, and has scored 23 goals in Group-stage opponents, 82 appearances, making him top scorer among his country’s active players. As well as head-to-head record scoring the winning goal to claim the European title in Portugal 2004, he was included MP W D L GF GA in the team of the tournament. The Nuremberg forward will now be hoping to once ARG 1 0 0 1 0 4 again go down in his country’s footballing history, this time as the fi rst Greek to score KOR 2 0 1 1 1 2 at a World Cup. NIG 2 1 0 1 2 2

How they qualifi ed European Group 2 / Play-off*

Greece v. Home Away Israel 2-1 1-1 Switzerland 1-2 2-0 Moldova 3-0 1-1 Latvia 5-2 0-2 Luxembourg 2-1 0-3 Ukraine* 0-0 0-1 What they said

Rank Team MP W D L Points “The players have been rewarded for their incredible passion 1 Switzerland10 63121 and competitive spirit. We said that before achieving success you 2 Greece 10 62220 need to have the Gods on your side.” 3 Latvia 10 52317 4 Israel10 44216 Otto Rehhagel 5 Luxembourg101275 6 Moldova 10 0373

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 83 AFRICAN REUNION FOR 1994 GROUP RIVALS

Maradona heads for the ground after a tussle with Nigeria’s Sunday Oliseh at the 1994 FIFA World Cup™. Argentina went on to win the group-stage encounter 2-1.

By Rex Gowar in Buenos Aires

Argentina, Nigeria and Greece could year too. Nevertheless, it was Nigeria who A 2-1 win over the Nigerians followed, be forgiven a feeling of déjà vu in South topped the 1994 group, with Bulgaria but it was at that point that Argentina’s Africa as they line up together in the same taking second spot and Argentina scraping dreams started to unravel following the group, just as they did at the 1994 FIFA through in third place, after all three teams shock news of Maradona’s positive drugs World Cup™. Another thing they have had fi nished level on points. test. With their star player and on-pitch in common is that all three countries will The South Americans had begun leader thrown out of the tournament, be hoping to do better than they did 16 strongly, routing Greece 4-0 thanks to a Argentina lost their last group-stage years ago. Gabriel Batistuta hat trick and a goal from encounter with Bulgaria 2-0, before In 1994, the group was completed Diego Maradona, the legendary former crashing out in the second round, courtesy by Bulgaria, a role that will fall to Korea captain who will now be overseeing the of a 3-2 defeat to Romania. Republic in 2010, and Argentina were seen 2010 campaign in his new role as head Two days later, Nigeria were also heading as the favourites – as they likely will be this coach. home, despite having looked on course

84 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 for a place in the quarter-fi nals for long For a long time during Argentina’s team is busy, which will also help me to spells of their second round meeting with inconsistent qualifying campaign, it looked make a quick assessment of the players.” Italy. A 25th minute goal from Emmanuel as though Messi was the only player With only two teams progressing to Amunike had put the Africans ahead certain of a call-up for South Africa, with this year’s knockout stages unlike in 1994, but Roberto Baggio struck back to break Maradona summoning more than 100 when Argentina were one of four third- Nigerian hearts, fi rst with an 88th minute players in his fi rst 18 months in charge of placed teams to also go through, Nigeria equaliser and then with a decisive penalty the team. Now, however, it appears that would no doubt be happiest to see a repeat during extra time. a core team has taken shape. In March, of the early results from the USA campaign. Greece came off worst of all, heading Maradona secured a morale-boosting Indeed before being replaced, Amodu home from their fi rst FIFA World Cup™ friendly win over Germany in Munich with suggested that the performances of 1994 with neither a point nor a goal to show almost the same line-up as the one he had might have played a motivational role in for their efforts. used to secure World Cup qualifi cation in his planning for this year’s edition. Of course, 16 years is a long time in Montevideo in October, and then kept “It is a similar group to the one we football and few of the current stars will faith with the vast majority of those players had at the 1994 World Cup and I don’t be worrying too much about what their when naming his 30-man preliminary want to talk about history but people predecessors achieved – or failed to achieve squad in May. will remember how we performed at – at a tournament played when many of that tournament even though people today’s players were still in school or even Nigerian shake-up thought we wouldn’t do well,” Amodu kindergarten. While a sense of continuity would now told reporters in Cape Town immediately Greece in particular will arrive in appear to be settling upon the Argentina after the Final Draw. “This World Cup is an South Africa with a much stronger squad, Nigeria will come to the 2010 FIFA opportunity for African teams to showcase footballing reputation than in 1994, World Cup™ with many wondering what their ability to the rest of the world. We thanks predominantly of course to their effect their late change of coach has had have played against some of our opponents unexpected triumph at the 2004 European on preparations. before and we have an idea of what we Championship but also to the sense of After “only” finishing third at this are up against.” discipline and organisational awareness year’s Africa Cup of Nations, Nigeria While Amodu will not be there to oversee that they have acquired under the astute parted company with Shaibu Amodu and that next step, Nigeria will now be lining leadership of German coach Otto Rehhagel. replaced him in February with Swede Lars up with Argentina and Greece once more Lagerback. as well as new rivals Korea Republic. All of Full circle “Of course I wish we had more time for them will know that history can be useful When it comes to Argentina, Maradona preparations,” Lagerback acknowledged – for inspiration, for providing lessons, or is of course the most obvious link to the in an April interview with FIFA.com. “The simply for the joy of remembering great campaign of 1994 and the meeting with Nigeria Football Federation has really events – but that it will also be largely Nigeria in Ellis Park on 12 June will see done a good job, however, by planning irrelevant as the chance now comes to the former star making his World Cup for friendly matches and ensuring that the write new chapters in South Africa. fi nals coaching debut against the same opponents he faced in that fateful last match in an Albiceleste shirt. Naturally, the Argentinian supporters will be much keener to recall memories of 1986, when Maradona captained the country to its second ever World Cup triumph, or indeed the 1990 fi nals when he was again skipper of a side that made it all the way to the fi nal before losing 1-0 to West Germany. Of course the main difference between 1986 and the present day is that Argentina can no longer call upon Maradona as a player, but in Barcelona wizard Lionel Messi many now believe that Argentina have at last found a worthy successor to their Greece were on the back foot for much of the 1994 campaign, leaving the USA with no legendary former number ten. points and no goals scored.

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 85 GROUP C – ENGLAND

The England team celebrate one of the 34 goals scored during their impressive 2010 qualifying campaign.

Such is his importance to club and last year after qualifi cation was assured, almost unthinkably, England failed to country, an entire nation held its collective ending a run of ten consecutive FIFA qualify for UEFA EURO 2008 in Austria- breath in March when talismanic striker World Cup™ qualifi cation wins that dates Switzerland, further increasing the Wayne Rooney limped off during back to 2005. pressure to make a strong showing in Manchester United’s UEFA Champions South Africa this year. League defeat in Munich against Bayern. A long wait At their best, England under their Thankfully for England fans, already Still, many England fans will be mindful charismatic Italian coach are solid in having to come to terms with the injury of their team’s longer-term history, which defence thanks to John Terry and Rio that ruled superstar midfi elder David has yielded just one FIFA World Cup Ferdinand, strong yet creative in midfi eld Beckham out of the 2010 FIFA World success, all the way back in 1966 when thanks to Steven Gerrard and Frank Cup South Africa™, the Liverpool-born as host nation they defeated Germany 4-2 Lampard, and lethal up front because 24-year-old marksman suffered only a after extra time in the fi nal at Wembley. of Rooney, scorer of nine goals in nine minor ankle ligament injury. The closest they have come since 1966 qualifi ers. Along the way, Spurs strikers Managers such as Kevin Keegan, Sven- was at the 1990 FIFA World Cup™ in Peter Crouch and Jermain Defoe have Göran Eriksson and Steve McClaren Italy, when the late Sir Bobby Robson also shown their ability to fi nd the back have come and gone, but under strict guided England to the semi-fi nals, only of the net. Italian Fabio Capello England have an to lose on penalties to eventual winners Should England progress beyond this impressive qualifi cation record – gaining West Germany. year’s group stage, as many expect, a nine wins from ten Group 6 games, After the disappointments of UEFA round-of-16 meeting with old rivals netting a European zone high of 34 EURO 2004 and the 2006 FIFA World Germany is possible – which for England goals, while conceding only six. Their Cup Germany™, when England lost to fans would again raise the dreaded only defeat came in Ukraine in October Portugal on penalties on both occasions, prospect of penalties.

86 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Star player: Wayne Rooney Coach If Italia ’90 is remembered in England as Gazza’s tournament, there are high hopes A winner of Serie A that South Africa 2010 will go down in history as “Wazza’s”. Wayne Rooney, as he is with AC Milan, AS better known, has already surpassed the achievements of the talented maverick Paul Roma and Juventus, Gascoigne in all ways bar one – he has yet to light up a FIFA World Cup™ with his as well as a two-time talent. The signs are that this could be the year for the 24-year-old Merseysider, who La Liga champion at was England’s nine-goal top scorer in qualifying and arrives in South Africa after his Real Madrid, Italian best season yet in front of goal. Handed a central striking role at Manchester United disciplinarian Fabio following Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure, Rooney has revelled in the responsibility, passing Capello wasted the 30-goal mark for the fi rst time. little time in instilling a renewed work When he was still in his teens and ethic and squad spirit in an England squad playing for his boyhood club Everton, packed with big-name stars and equally Rooney became his country’s youngest large egos. Qualifi cation for South Africa international when he made his senior 2010 with two games to spare and a debut at 17 years and 111 days in a solitary competitive defeat speak volumes February 2003 friendly against Australia. for Capello’s impact in his relatively short Making the step up to international time in charge. football with apparent ease, just as he later did with his high-profi le Possible line-up transfer from Everton to Manchester GK David JAMES United, Rooney is now a veteran of D Glen JOHNSON two major international tournaments D Ashley COLE and, with United, a winner of three D John TERRY Premier League titles and the 2008 D Rio FERDINAND UEFA Champions League. MF Frank LAMPARD His importance to England was MF Gareth BARRY underlined at EURO 2004 when he MF James MILNER scored four goals before limping out MF Shaun WRIGHT-PHILLIPS of the tournament with a fractured MF/F Steven GERRARD metatarsal injury during the quarter- F Wayne ROONEY fi nals which also dealt a decisive body blow to England’s chances. Two years later, at the 2006 FIFA World Cup™, Rooney – and England – suffered another quarter-fi nal Group-stage opponents, exit, this time by virtue of a red card for stamping on Portugal’s Ricardo Carvalho. head-to-head record Four years on from Gelsenkirchen, Rooney has matured impressively. He became a MP W D L GF GA father last October and the following month captained England for the fi rst time in a SVN 110021 Dubai friendly against Brazil. For all his star quality, he still works tirelessly for his team USA 9702358 and no defence will look forward to facing him in South Africa. ALG 000000

How they qualifi ed European Group 6 England v. Home Away Andorra 6-0 0-2 What they said Croatia 5-1 1-4 “I think we’ve put the record straight, to some extent. Since the Kazakhstan 5-1 0-4 manager arrived, there has been nothing but hard work, our Belarus 3-0 1-3 confi dence has come on a million miles in the way the team is Ukraine 2-1 1-0 playing. It is the fi rst step and we’ve qualifi ed now but there’s

Rank Team MP W D L Points still a long way to go.” 1 England 10 9 0 1 27 2 Ukraine 10 6 3 1 21 England midfi elder Frank Lampard following the 5-1 home 3 Croatia 10 6 2 2 20 win over Croatia which sealed qualifi cation for South 4 Belarus 10 4 1 5 13 Africa 2010 5 Kazakhstan 10 2 0 8 6 6 Andorra 10 0 0 10 0

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 87 GROUP C – USA

US goalkeeper Tim Howard is in full song after his team’s fi nal qualifying match against Costa Rica.

Those with any lingering doubts about wins and two draws in 18 run-outs, scoring apiece. Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard the USA’s footballing credentials would 42 goals, while conceding just 16. also remains a key infl uence, while coach do well to remember that the 2010 FIFA Victories came against Barbados, Bradley will be hoping that Milan’s Oguchi World Cup™ in South Africa will mark the Guatemala, Trinidad and Tobago, El Onyewu recovers from knee injury in time Americans’ sixth successive World Cup Salvador, Cuba (including a 6-1 mauling to fi gure at the heart of the US defence. fi nals. Buoyed by a convincing qualifi cation in Washington) and Honduras, where a The USA are currently well-placed within campaign and a notable 2-0 semi-fi nal 3-2 win in San Pedro Sula ensured that the top 20 of the FIFA/Coca-Cola World win over the mighty Spain in the FIFA the US would be heading for South Africa. Ranking, having reached their best-ever Confederations Cup 2009 in South Africa, Arguably, the highlight of the campaign showing of fourth place in April 2006. the USA will now be aiming to emulate came in Columbus in February last year, Their best showing in the FIFA World Cup™ their unexpected journey to the 2002 FIFA with a memorable 2-0 triumph over Mexico, came at Uruguay 1930, when they reached World Cup™ quarter-fi nals. although the USA were later thrashed 5-0 the semi-fi nals. In 1950, they also recorded In the FIFA Confederations Cup 2009 by El Tri in the Gold Cup fi nal in July. a famous 1-0 victory over current Group fi nal, the US even took a two-goal lead C opponents England in Belo Horizonte, against Brazil before the fi ve-time world In-form Altidore although it would be 40 years before they champions asserted their superiority to The Americans have been helped by the would again reach the fi nals of international score three. Nonetheless, the competition form of marksman Jozy Altidore, who netted football’s premier tournament. Mexico is perfectly illustrated the USA’s self-belief, six times to become his country’s top scorer the only CONCACAF nation with more determination and ability. in the qualifying rounds, while Fulham’s FIFA World Cup fi nals appearances than The Americans reached the 2010 FIFA Clint Dempsey and inspirational midfi elders the USA. This being their tenth fi nals, the World Cup after securing fi rst place in Landon Donovan of LA Galaxy (all-time Americans will be hoping to improve on the fi nal six-team qualifying phase for the leading scorer and most-capped current US their showing at the 2006 FIFA World North, Central America and Caribbean zone, player) and Borussia Mönchengladbach’s Cup™, when they failed to progress from beating arch-rivals Mexico into second place. Michael Bradley (the 22-year-old son of US the group stage, despite a creditable 1-1 En route to South Africa, the US recorded 13 coach Bob Bradley) all weighed in with fi ve draw with eventual winners Italy.

88 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Star player: Landon Donovan Coach In 1999, a 17-year-old Landon Donovan picked up the Golden Ball as best player at the Bob Bradley was FIFA U-17 World Championship in New Zealand and soon afterwards he earned his fi rst originally appointed call-up to a United States national team training camp. The supremely skilled attacking national coach midfi elder has since earned over 100 caps and become the USA’s all-time top scorer. on a caretaker Not bad for a man who is still just 28. basis, though an Making his senior international debut in 2001, Donovan earned himself a place in unbeaten run of Bruce Arena’s squad for the 2002 FIFA World Cup™ in Korea/Japan where, at barely 20 ten games soon years of age, he played a signifi cant role in the USA’s run to the quarter-fi nals. Roaming saw him given between the midfi eld and front-runners, he scored twice in a successful campaign, against the job on a permanent basis. Anyone Poland in the fi rst round and Mexico who still doubted his credentials would in the Stars and Stripes’ memorable have been silenced by events at the FIFA round-of-16 triumph. Confederations Cup 2009, where the USA It took Donovan a little longer to fi nd ousted favourites Spain in the semi-fi nals his feet in club football. He became one before going down to a narrow 3-2 fi nal of the youngest American players in defeat to Brazil. history to sign a professional contract with an overseas club when agreeing Possible line-up to join German Bundesliga side Bayer GK Tim HOWARD Leverkusen in 1999, but he was to D Steve CHERUNDOLO spend the next few years yo-yoing D Carlos BOCANEGRA between the US and Germany, picking D Oguchi ONYEWU up league titles during loan spells in his D Jonathan BORNSTEIN homeland but struggling to establish MF Michael BRADLEY himself in the Leverkusen set-up. MF Landon DONOVAN After a relatively poor showing by MF Clint DEMPSEY the US team at the 2006 FIFA World MF DaMarcus BEASLEY Cup Germany™, there were some who F Edson BUDDLE questioned if the young player’s best F Jozy ALTIDORE days were already behind him, but impressively it was at this point that Donovan rediscovered his form, following up on Group-stage opponents, another loan spell (this time with Bayern Munich) by fi nally securing a regular starting head-to-head record place after signing for English Premier League side Everton. MP W D L GF GA Blessed with an ability to press forward and get goals by the barrow-load, and already ENG 9207835 rated as one of the most technically gifted American players of his generation, Donovan ALG 000000 could fi nally be ready to bring all of his talents to the table in South Africa. SVN 000000

How they qualifi ed CONCACAF Fourth Round

USA v. Home Away Mexico 2-0 2-1 El Salvador 2-1 2-2 What they said Trinidad & Tobago 3-0 0-1 “We’re very proud to have fi nished at the top of the fi nal Costa Rica 2-2 3-1 Honduras 2-1 2-3 (qualifying round). It was a great effort and required a great deal of determination on our team’s part. Every time we took

Rank Team MP W D L Points the fi eld we spoke about proving to the world what we were 1 USA10 62220 capable of and I think we did just that.” 2 Mexico 10 61319 3 Honduras 1051416 Bob Bradley after his side claimed top spot in CONCACAF 4 Costa Rica10 51416 qualifying 5 El Salvador10 2268 6 T & T 10 1366

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 89 GROUP C – ALGERIA

Algeria’s Karim Matmour skips past Mali’s Mohamed Sissoko during the group stage of January’s Africa Cup of Nations.

It was a stop-start campaign that saw The Desert Foxes fi nished only one point Algeria’s international footballing Algeria book their place – after a 24-year- ahead of Gambia, Senegal and Liberia in highpoint came in 1990, when the country absence – at this year’s FIFA World Cup™ their fi rst qualifying group, before tying hosted the CAF Africa Cup of Nations and but the nature of their eventual triumph, with the Pharaohs in the second stage to duly went on to win the competition for in a highly-charged play-off against arch- set up the thrilling play-off. the fi rst time, convincingly beating Nigeria rivals Egypt will certainly have felt as good (5-1), Côte d’Ivoire (3–0), Egypt (2–0) and as a World Cup title win for many of the Third time lucky? Senegal (2-1) on the way. Some 200,000 Algerian fans. Now preparing for their third appearance fans crammed into the Stade 5 Juillet 1962 A stunning Marco van Basten-esque in the fi nals of a FIFA World Cup, where to witness Algeria beat Nigeria for a second volley by France-born Anther Yahia from they will be the only representatives from time in the fi nal, thanks to a solitary Cherif an impossibly tight angle in the 40th minute the Arabic world, the North Africans are Oudjani goal. gave Algeria the vital win in Sudan last yet to make it beyond the competition’s When it comes to the current squad, November over their old foes and reigning group stage. In 1982 in Spain, Algeria had Yahia is already a national hero thanks CAF Africa Cup of Nations champions. obviously not read the script, stunning to his wonder strike against Egypt. It proved a nail-biting climax to a patchy West Germany 2-1 and Chile 3-2 before Other undisputed stars of coach Rabah 13-game campaign that brought the suffering an improbable 2-0 defeat to Saadane’s team include Rangers centre- Algerians eight wins, two draws and three Austria which swiftly brought the curtain back Madjid Bougherra, Portsmouth losses. There was no stand-out goal hero, down on their promising campaign. Four wing-back Nadir Belhadj and super but Rafi k Saïfi , Wolfsburg’s Karim Ziani years later in Mexico, Algeria managed a athletic 32-year-old goalkeeper Lounes and Khartoum hero Yahia all scored three 1-1 draw against Northern Ireland, before Gaouaoui. The Algerian skipper is Yazid times, while AEK Athens’ Rafi k Djebbour sustaining predictable losses against Brazil Mansouri, who, although a defensive and Abdelkader Ghezzal, who plays for (1-0) and Spain (3-0) and once again midfi elder, likes to the spread the play Siena in Serie A, each hit two. exiting at the fi rst hurdle. with his impressive passing.

90 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Star player: Madjid Bougherra Coach Algeria’s impressive record of conceding only three goals in seven World Cup qualifying Since leaving his matches is down largely to Madjid Bougherra. The French-born centre-back makes post in 1986, life extremely diffi cult for opponents, fi ghting for every ball and tirelessly driving his Rabah Saâdane team forward from the back. As well as being elegant in possession, he pops up in has returned to unexpected positions and rescues his team when all seems lost. In recognition of this, coach the Algerian fans have dubbed him “Magic”. national team Bougherra had already played for FC Gueugnon, Crewe Alexandra, Sheffi eld several times. His Wednesday and Charlton Athletic by the time he signed for Rangers in 2008. The latest stint at the 1.88m defender’s fi rst season at Ibrox could hardly have gone any better – he won the helm began in 2007. During his time as a Scottish league and cup double with club coach, the 64-year-old, a cult fi gure his team and was voted player of the on account of his famed calmness and year by the club’s fans. composure, led Raja Casablanca to the Bougherra chose to represent CAF Champions League title in 1989 and Algeria rather than France at triumphed in the Arab Champions League international level and made his in 2007 with ESS Sétif. debut for the Desert Foxes in 2004. He has since gone on to win more Possible line-up than 40 caps, scoring three goals GK Lounes GAOUAOUI in the process. His goal to make it D Rafi k HALLICHE 2-0 to Algeria in their World Cup D Nadir BELHADJ qualifying match against Zambia in D Madjid BOUGHERRA Chililabombwe was crucial to the D Anther YAHIA North African country’s hopes of MF Yazid MANSOURI clinching a berth in the fi nals of the MF Mourad MEGHNI 2010 FIFA World Cup™. MF Hassan YEBDA Bougherra was suffering from MF Karim ZIANI a knee injury throughout the F Rafi k SAIFI campaign, yet rather than show F Abdelkader GHEZZAL any sign of weakness, “Magic” conjured up a string of commanding Group-stage opponents, performances and proved to be a head-to-head record linchpin for his team, particularly in the two decisive matches against Egypt that sealed MP W D L GF GA qualifi cation. This, added to his outstanding club form, suggests that he will be a key ENG 000000 fi gure in the Algerian line-up when the FIFA World Cup™ kicks off in South Africa. USA 000000 SVN 000000

How they qualifi ed African Third Round, Group C / Play-off*

Algeria v. Home Away What they said Rwanda 3-1 0-0 “With this qualifi cation, our country is back on the world stage. Egypt 3-1 2-0 Zambia 1-0 0-2 It is a joy and a great honour for me to have played such a part in this. When I see the immense happiness that World Cup Egypt* 1-0 qualifi cation has brought our people, I am extremely moved. This Rank Team MP W D L Points is a shining example for our young generation.” 1 Algeria6 41113 2 Egypt 641113 Rabah Saâdane 3 Zambia61235 4 Rwanda 60242

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 91 GROUP C – SLOVENIA

Slovenia celebrate November’s unexpected play-off triumph over Russia.

Slovenia’s away-goal play-off victory over comfortable two-goal cushion. Slovenia’s independence from Yugoslavia in 1991. Russia in November perhaps caused more Nejc Pečnik stole a vital away goal, The team reached UEFA EURO 2000 and of a shock than it should. After all, they however, with just two minutes left. In the 2002 FIFA World Cup™ in Korea and had already ended the World Cup dreams the second leg in Maribor four days later, a Japan, but suffered early elimination on of Poland and the Czech Republic in Group Zlatko Dedič strike meant that, against the each occasion, with all three of their 3, even though both had qualifi ed for odds, it was Slovenia who were heading to World Cup group stage matches ending Germany 2006 and UEFA EURO 2008 South Africa as the tournament’s smallest in defeat. Despite failing to qualify for and were seen as heavy favourites for participating country. the 2006 World Cup fi nals, Slovenia the group’s top two spots. Yet both the again showed their potential when they Poles and the Czechs underperformed Reliable Novakovič became the only team to beat eventual and it was the contest between Slovenia In their 12-game qualifi cation campaign, World Cup winners Italy in the qualifi ers. and Slovakia that was to prove the more Slovenia chalked up seven wins and Slovenia manager Matjaž Kek has fascinating. only lost three times (all away), scoring deflected any expectations for his Following wins over Northern Ireland, 20 goals and conceding just six in the own team by tipping group opponents San Marino and Poland, and creditable process. Top scorer was Cologne striker England as a team he believes can go draws in Wroclaw against the Poles and Milivoje Novakovič, an ever-present who all the way at the 2010 FIFA World in Maribor against the Czech Republic, hit fi ve goals during his dozen appearances. Cup™. The only time the sides have the battle for top spot went to the wire. Goalkeeper Samir Handanovič also met previously was in a friendly last Slovenia were vying for top spot with featured in every qualifi er, while captain September at Wembley, a game that Slovakia – a team they had beaten home Robert Koren, a skilful attacking midfi elder England won 2-1. Slovenia have never (2-1) and away (0-2). Yet Slovakia earned who plays for West Bromwich Albion in played the USA or Algeria, whom they a decisive 1-0 away win in Poland, which England, adds much to a Slovenian side meet in their fi rst match on 13 June. meant Slovenia had to battle it out via the that is now ranked in the world’s top 30 But having exceeded the hopes of all play-offs against Guus Hiddink’s Russia. and widely respected by those in the know but the most optimistic Slovenian fans The fi rst leg in Moscow saw winger as a highly organised outfi t. during the qualifying stages, Kek’s men Diniyar Bilyaletdinov score either side of Slovenia’s footballing history is will of course be hoping to pull off more half time to give the Russians a seemingly not long, as the country only gained shocks in South Africa.

92 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Star player: Samir Handanovič Coach Italian legend Gianluigi Buffon has hailed him as “one of the best goalkeepers in Italy”, Earning just one while Slovenian fans already consider him to be among the fi nest in the world. For Samir international cap as Handanovič, the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ offers a chance to show the rest of planet a player for Slovenia football just why he is considered one of goalkeeping’s rising stars. in 1992, shortly Still just 25, the Udinese goalie has earned his starting place in the national team, after his country’s thanks in particular to a World Cup qualifying campaign in which Handanovič marshalled independence, one of the meanest defences in the entire UEFA zone. A fi gure of three goals conceded Matjaž Kek has in eight group matches gives some indication of the heroics which culminated in an all- proven far more important clean sheet in Slovenia’s decisive play-off victory over Russia on 18 November. successful as a coach – working his way Though his family are of Bosnian up the ranks via the national U-15 and U-16 descent, Handanovič was born in teams before taking over as senior coach in Ljubljana and took his first steps January 2007. Exceeding all expectations towards a professional career with when he steered his unfancied team Slovenian minnows Slovan Mavrica back to the game’s greatest stage, Kek and Zagorje between 2002 and 2003. acknowledged afterwards that “Slovenia His promise already evident, the 1.96m has realised a dream.” keeper was picked up by top-fl ight outfi t Domzale, but made just seven Possible line-up appearances for the club before GK Samir HANDANOVIC Udinese swooped in the summer of D Miso BRECKO 2004. D Bojan JOKIC Handanovič had just turned 20, D Marko SULER but within just a few months, on 17 D Bostjan CESAR November 2004, he had made his MF Robert KOREN international debut, keeping a clean MF Andraz KIRM sheet in a friendly meeting with MF Aleksandar RADOSAVLJEVIC Slovakia. Following a series of loan MF Valter BIRSA spells in Serie B, Handanovič was F Zlatko DEDIC recalled to Udinese in 2007 and has F Milivoje NOVAKOVIC been the club’s fi rst-choice keeper ever since, with his assured performances, aerial ability and penalty-saving prowess earning him the nickname “The Doorkeeper”. Group-stage opponents, Supported by elder cousin Jasmin Handanovič as his understudy in the Slovenian head-to-head record goal, Handanovič could now fi nd plenty of doors opening for him if he continues to MP W D L GF GA impress in South Africa. ENG100112 USA 000000 How they qualifi ed ALG000000 European Group 3 / Play-off*

Slovenia v. Home Away Poland 3-0 1-1 Slovakia 2-1 0-2 Northern Ireland 2-0 1-0 Czech Rep. 0-0 1-0 San Marino 5-0 0-3 What they said “For a small country like ours, it’s an incredible achievement to Russia* 1-0 1-2 qualify for a World Cup. Before this qualifi cation series started,

Rank Team MP W D L Points nobody was giving this young team a hope. But now, the players 1 Slovakia10 71222 and the whole country are proud of our success. We want to 2 Slovenia 10 62220 show that, small as we are, we can compete with the best.” 3 Czech Rep. 10 44216 4 N. Ireland 10 4 3 3 15 Milivoje Novakovič, Slovenia striker 5 Poland 10 32511 6 San Marino 10 0 0 10 0

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 93 HISTORY IN THE REMAKING?

Goalscorer Joe Gaetjens is carried off the pitch by cheering fans following the USA’s shock 1950 win over England.

By Michael Lewis

The USA’s group stage meeting with victory must have seemed. The supposed little as USD 5 a game. Needless to say, England on 12 June will of course evoke gulf between the two countries before players needed a real job to make ends memories of the Americans’ shock victory the game was so immense that John meet for themselves and their families, at the 1950 World Cup™ – but the US Thompson of England’s Daily Mail which made the Americans’ upset of class of 2010 are keen to write their own newspaper reported watching his national England that much more incredible. chapter in footballing history. side losing to a “team I never knew played Incredible, but true. The match was “1950 is ancient history. You don’t want football.” played in what was then the tiny north to live in it. But you don’t want to forget Widely hailed as the inventors of the Brazilian mining town of Belo Horizonte, about it either.” That is how former US game, England were playing in their now a bustling city of 2.4 million residents. international Walter Bahr sums up the first FIFA World Cup™, where they Reports of the time describe the US team current nostalgia surrounding his team’s were installed as co-favourites along as having taken a pummelling throughout sensational 1-0 group stage win over with the Brazilian hosts. Coach Walter much of the fi rst half before a 37th-minute England at the 1950 FIFA World Cup, a Winterbottom had an array of stars in header by Haitian-born striker Joe Gaetjens match which returned to the media a squad which had reportedly been coupled with some inspired goalkeeping at spotlight in December when the two sides insured by Lloyd’s of London for USD 3 the other end of the pitch by Frank Borghi were again pitted against each other in the million, an enormous sum in those days. produced a previously unimaginable result group stage for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™. The Americans on the other hand were – for fans and players alike. For those unfamiliar with the football glorifi ed amateurs and semi-pro players “At the time, I didn’t realize how big a set-up of the 1950s, it is hard perhaps who performed in the American Soccer victory it really was,” recalled Bahr, now to comprehend just how unlikely the US League and local leagues, some for as 83, in April. “We weren’t that familiar with

94 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 the World Cup. The United States wasn’t squad which provided the backbone of As well as the history factor, there will familiar with the whole concept of the the team which reached the second round of course be many players in the US squad World Cup. It was only as the years went of the 1994 FIFA World Cup™ on home who know the English game well, from by that the signifi cance of that victory has soil. Perhaps even more signifi cantly, that either now playing or having recently played become more apparent.” tournament provided the impetus for for English clubs – something that will add What is sometimes forgotten in the creating Major League Soccer (MLS), the extra spice to the fi xture for the likes of Tim hype surrounding the match itself is the domestic professional league stipulated Howard, Landon Donovan (both Everton), fact that neither team had their fate at the by FIFA as one of the legacies that the Clint Dempsey (Fulham), Stuart Holden tournament sealed by that one result. The tournament should leave behind. (Bolton) and Jozy Altidore (Hull City). English, who had begun with a 2-0 victory MLS is now halfway through its 15th “I’m sure it will get pretty intense, over Chile, could still have turned things season. While it has endured many especially in the world we live in today around, but instead limped out after a growing pains, many of the Americans with blogs and the internet and stuff 1-0 defeat to eventual group winners preparing for the 2010 FIFA World Cup like that,” Donovan has acknowledged. Spain. The US had got off to a bad start either play for clubs within the league, or “Obviously our job is to try to stay after also losing to Spain in their opening started their careers there. insulated and just worry about the team. match, and the win over England was But for the fans it’s going to be a lot of to prove their sole victory at the event, Less shocking fun, and I’m excited about this game as followed up by a comprehensive 5-2 loss With US soccer on a much fi rmer footing much as a fan as a player.” to the Chileans. than it was 60 years ago, a repeat of While the internet and blogs were as that famous scoreline would certainly unimaginable in 1950 as a US soccer Wake-up call provoke less of a shock this time around victory over England, one thing unites Nor did the match mark any seismic shift in – even if England are again entering the these two vastly different sporting eras: the balance of footballing power between tournament among the favourites. For sure, the sanctity of the result as the fi nal word the Old and New World. Indeed, many the Americans will not be underestimated on any encounter. No matter which team football historians have described England’s as they were in 1950, having established boasts the greater overall statistics, it is calamitous debut appearance at the FIFA themselves since 1990 as regional the score on the day that counts. World Cup as a wake-up call that fi nally heavyweights who, on a good day, can mix Asked if he would take the 1-0 score alerted the game’s inventors to the fact it with the very best. England will of course again when the sides meet on 12 June, that the rest of the world had caught have noted the current US squad’s surprise Bradley does not hesitate, stating with a up, and indeed overtaken, them. Within run to the fi nal of the FIFA Confederations big smile, “We would.” another 16 years, England were world Cup 2009, where they led Brazil 2-0 at champions and it was US soccer that was half-time, before eventually succumbing struggling. 3-2. That tournament, which also included It did not take long for the ecstasy to a shock semi-fi nal win over a supposedly wear off. When he returned home from invincible Spain, will have also helped the Brazil, Bahr said he expected a crowd at Americans familiarise themselves with the the airport, but was greeted only by his South African winter and environment wife. Worse, his beloved sport did not and the variations of altitude in their three go forward, but rather backwards over group stage venues. the next four decades. Most notably, US coach Bob Bradley has been a professional league came and went understandably reluctant to dwell on past – the North American Soccer League, glories, either from 2009 or 1950, but he which boasted the likes of Pelé, Franz acknowledges that the Belo Horizonte Beckenbauer, Carlos Alberto and Johan match still holds a special place in the Cruyff, among other stars and superstars hearts of US soccer fans. from the football galaxy during that era. “We tried to make sure the team has a Following the highs of 1950, it would little sense of history, and the win in 1950 take another ten World Cup qualifying is a moment we are proud of,” he recently campaigns before the USA fi nally took said. “The opportunity to now open our their place back among the world’s elite, 2010 World Cup campaign against England successfully reaching Italia ’90 with a brings new attention to our team and our The USA’s current stars impressed during group of recent college graduates. Despite sport. The fi rst round is about three games, last year’s run to the FIFA Confederations Cup fi nal. making another fi rst-round exit, it was this but it starts with England.”

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 95 GROUP D – GERMANY

Lukas Podolski is in the thick of German celebrations during an emphatic 6-0 start to their qualifying campaign in Liechtenstein.

Expectations were unusually low when FIFA World Cup™, recording eight wins and Pointing to the overall effi ciency and Germany started the last FIFA World Cup™ two draws with 26 goals scored and only technical profi ciency of the performance, as under-rated tournament hosts. Despite fi ve conceded. Poland-born Bayern Munich Russia boss Guus Hiddink tipped the a pedigree in the competition which has striker Miroslav Klose hit an impressive Germans as a force to be reckoned with seen them compete in all but two fi nal seven goals in eight run-outs while fellow at this year’s fi nals. competitions and win three times – a record “Pole” Lukas Podolski of Cologne got What remains to be seen, of course, is bettered only by four-time winners Italy and six in nine. Chelsea midfi elder Michael how well the Germans can cope without record fi ve-time champions Brazil – Jürgen Ballack provided another four, with Bayern Ballack following their infl uential captain’s Klinsmann’s untested young squad were Munich midfi elder Bastian Schweinsteiger heartbreaking injury in the English FA Cup generally seen as a pale imitation of the great scoring three. Final just weeks before the start of the national teams that had gone before them. tournament. Germany of course confounded their Both ruthless and effi cient? Löw’s men will be expected to win their critics, just as they have done so often in Some critics damned Germany with group comfortably and they begin their the past, fi nishing the 2006 tournament faint praise when they described the campaign in Durban on 13 June against in third place and as the highest-scoring qualifi cation campaign as effi cient and Australia, a side they have beaten twice. team. Now coached by Klinsmann’s former single-minded. Still, they wrapped up Germany thrashed Ghana 6-1 in the sides’ deputy, Joachim Löw, and with four years’ qualifi cation comfortably and showed only previous meeting and have only lost more experience, including a runners-up a ruthless streak when they beat seven times in 31 meetings with Serbia. spot at the 2008 European Championship, Liechtenstein by an aggregate score of No European team has yet won the FIFA Germany are unlikely to be underestimated 10-0 in their two encounters. They also World Cup outside of the old continent, by anybody this time around. handed Russia their fi rst-ever defeat in but Germany certainly have the talent, Die Nationalmannschaft (national team) front of their home fans in a FIFA World experience and determination to put that were unbeaten in qualifying for the 2010 Cup qualifying campaign in October. statistic to rest.

96 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Star player: Bastian Schweinsteiger Coach Having long since graduated simply from being the “next big thing” in German football, Joachim Löw has Bastian Schweinsteiger has hit peak form again just in time for the 2010 FIFA World long since stepped Cup™. The exceptionally talented 1.83m Bayern Munich midfi elder switched position out of the shadow of from the left of midfi eld to the centre last season and possesses all of the qualities predecessor Jürgen needed to pull the strings for the three-time world champions and take over the role Klinsmann, whom vacated by the injured Michael Ballack. he assisted at the Schweinsteiger made his international debut for Germany in a 2-0 friendly defeat 2006 World Cup in to Hungary in Kaiserslautern in June 2004. A mere four years later, in May 2008, his homeland. This, he gained his 50th cap for his country despite falling short of the goal that he set at the tender age of 23 – a record in himself upon taking the job on 12 July 2006 the history of the German Football of winning the European Championship Association. He fi rst came to the world’s and maintaining the attacking philosophy attention at the FIFA Confederations which Klinsmann adopted for the German Cup 2005 in his homeland, when he team. However, the man who continues to won a place in German fans’ hearts hold SC Freiburg’s goalscoring record has with his outstanding performances and earned respect from all sides thanks to his care-free attitude. A year later, at the calm, professional and friendly approach 2006 FIFA World Cup™ in Germany, he with star players and the media. provided a creative outlet on the left side of the pitch for national coach Jürgen GK Manuel NEUER Klinsmann and stood out in particular D Andreas BECK in Germany’s 3-1 victory over Portugal D Philipp LAHM in the match for third place, in which he D Heiko WESTERMANN scored two goals and set up the third. D Per MERTESACKER Schweinsteiger is technically gifted MF Piotr TROCHOWSKI and blessed with an ability to read the MF Marko MARIN game well. He has vastly improved his MF Sami KHEDIRA tackling ability in recent months and with MF Bastian SCHWEINSTEIGER a haul of over 70 caps, now counts as a F Lukas PODOLSKI highly experienced player. A stalwart for F Miroslav KLOSE Bayern Munich, he is now also capable of taking games by the scruff of the neck in the colours of the Nationalmannschaft and of driving Joachim Löw’s men on to new heights. Group-stage opponents, head-to-head record MP W D L GF GA AUS 220073 GHA110061 How they qualifi ed SRB 27 16 4 7 49 32 European Group 4

Germany v. Home Away Liechtenstein 4-0 0-6 Finland 1-1 3-3 Russia 2-1 0-1 What they said Wales 1-0 0-2 Azerbaijan 4-0 0-2 “Germany have been very successful in the past, and that’s an inspiration to the next generations. We’re defi nitely among a

Rank Team MP W D L Points group of countries with a chance of taking the trophy. We were 1 Germany10 82026 third at the World Cup and second at the EURO, so our goal for 2 Russia 1071222 2010 is to make the fi nal and win the trophy.” 3 Finland 10 53218 4 Wales 10 40612 Philipp Lahm in an exclusive interview with FIFA.com 5 Azerbaijan 10 1275 6 Liechtenstein 10 0282

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 97 GROUP D – AUSTRALIA

Now holding sway in Asia, Australia are back for their second successive World Cup campaign.

The old adage about London buses – that Confederation, Australia appear to have FIFA World Cup qualifi ers after keeping you wait ages for one to turn up and then found their groove. seven consecutive clean sheets. two come along at once – could equally Building on a 2006 campaign which had The side is also not without fi repower be applied to the history of successful seen them take eventual champions Italy at the other end. As well as conceding Australian FIFA World Cup™ qualifying all the way up until the 95th minute penalty just four goals in the 14 qualifying games, campaigns. Having fi rst seen their side of a bad-tempered round-of-16 encounter, the team also scored 19. Underlining his qualify for world football’s biggest event in Australia also faced some diffi cult moments importance to the side, Everton’s Tim Cahill 1974 with a team of amateurs which lost on the road to the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ hit four in six games. Blackburn Rovers’ to both East and West Germany but did but fi nally came through as group winners, Brett Emerton achieved the same tally while manage a 0-0 draw against Chile, Aussie fi ve points clear of nearest rivals Japan. Nagoya Grampus striker Joshua Kennedy and fans had to wait 32 years to see their team Galatasaray’s Harry Kewell each hit three. compete at the highest level. And then just Tight at the back Australia have experience and they another four years for them to do it again. Now coached by Pim Verbeek, who was certainly have talent, but the side faces Between 1974 and the 2006 FIFA eventually named as the successor to a tough opener in Durban on 13 June, World Cup™ there were plenty of near- fellow Dutchman Guus Hiddink, Australia when they take on Germany – the team misses, including play-off defeats to owed much of their latest success to a that beat them 3-0 all the way back in Scotland (1986), Argentina (1994), Iran miserly defence commandeered by Lucas 1974. If Germany reassert their authority (1998) and Uruguay (2002). Now though, Neill, one of the game’s toughest central in that clash, then Australia’s key game after successfully making the switch defenders. Fulham shot-stopper Mark could come against Ghana in Rustenburg from Oceania to join the Asian Football Schwarzer claimed a national record for seven days later.

98 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Star player: Lucas Neill Coach Regardless of club form, Australia captain Lucas Neill has been a highly consistent After a lengthy performer in his country’s back line since shoring up his fi rst-team position fi ve years apprenticeship under ago. His leadership on the fi eld remains inspirational and his presence has been a key Guus Hiddink, Pim contributor to Australia’s strong defensive record of recent years. Verbeek stepped Assuming the captaincy in October 2006, and becoming Australia’s 50th captain in out of the shadows the process, Neill is very strong in the tackle, good in the air and links well with his to take Korea midfi eld. Although now entrenched in central defence with the national team, he can Republic to the also fi ll a number of other roles, dating back to his younger days when he was utilised 2007 AFC Asian in numerous capacities for both club and country. Cup before assuming the reins for Australia Neill is yet another graduate of in December 2007. Building upon a rock- Australia’s golden generation which solid defence and considerable fl air on the played at the Olympic Football fl anks, Verbeek has instilled a strong sense Tournament on home soil in Sydney ten of teamwork to forge a highly motivated years ago. But it was his performance for and focused unit. the Socceroos in the two-legged play-off victory over Uruguay in November 2005 Possible line-up which was perhaps the major turning GK Mark SCHWARZER point in his international career. Neill D Luke WILKSHIRE performed majestically at home, showing D David CARNEY coolness in an intense environment both D Jade NORTH home and away. He also casually slotted D Lucas NEILL home a spot kick as Australia triumphed M Brett HOLMAN in the tensest imaginable backdrop for a M Brett EMERTON penalty shoot-out. M Tim CAHILL The fi ne form continued at the 2006 M Marco BRESCIANO FIFA Word Cup™ with Neill rock solid F Harry KEWELL across all four of Australia’s matches. F Joshua KENNEDY Unfortunately however, the defi ning moment of the campaign came when Neill was deemed to have fouled Fabio Grosso, Group-stage opponents, allowing the eventual world champions to slot home a last-gasp penalty. head-to-head record Now playing his club football for Istanbul giants Galatasaray, alongside fellow MP W D L GF GA Australian hero Harry Kewell, Neill will be keen to build on some impressive defensive GER 200037 performances in a 2010 FIFA World Cup™ qualifying campaign which saw Australia SER 000000 concede just four goals in 14 matches. GHA641173

How they qualifi ed Asian Fourth Round, Group A

Australia v. Home Away Uzbekistan 2-0 0-1 Qatar 4-0 0-0 Bahrain 2-0 0-1 What they said Japan 2-1 0-0 “We have to go there and do it better than last time. I think you have to make targets in life and the players are going to do

Rank Team MP W D L Points that also. We want to do better than last time, and we will do 1 Australia862020 everything possible to do that.” 2 Japan 843115 3 Bahrain 831410 Australia coach Pim Verbeek 4 Qatar 81346 5 Uzbekistan 81164

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 99 GROUP D – SERBIA

Star defender Nemanja Vidić (centre) enjoys success at the other end of the pitch, after scoring during Serbia’s March 2009 qualifying win over Romania.

Known as the White Eagles, in reference comprised of three straight defeats to the last September’s head-to-head in to the white double-headed eagle on their Netherlands, Argentina (a 6-0 drubbing) Belgrade, Radomir Antic’s side kept national coat of arms, Serbia could just as and Côte d’Ivoire. their cool to register a 1-1 draw before easily turn out to be the “dark horses” of Now appearing for the fi rst time simply ensuring that they clinched top spot in Group D. Pitted against the experience of as Serbia, the team made their offi cial the group with a 5-0 home victory over Germany and the athleticism of Ghana, debut as an independent nation less than Romania. In ten games, Serbia won the small European state was never likely four years ago, in August 2006, with a seven, drew one and lost two. to be among the tournament favourites, 3-1 friendly win over the Czech Republic. It was a qualifying campaign that but few would argue against the quality It was their 5-0 thrashing of Romania in demonstrated the collective potential of of the individual talent contained within October last year, however, that sealed an a squad, whose individual talents have the squad. unlikely World Cup qualifying place ahead never been in doubt. Certainly any side Serbia are not without their own World of hot favourites France, who instead had boasting the spine of Vladimir Stojković Cup experience, when you include their to book their own spot via the European in goal, Manchester United’s Nemanja previous appearances under the umbrella of play-offs. Vidić in defence, versatile Inter Milan the now-collapsed Yugoslavia. They were star Dejan Stanković in midfi eld and also present at the 2006 FIFA World Cup™, Cool fi nish new Liverpool striker Milan Jovanović though still coupled with neighbours Leading the 1998 FIFA World Cup™ is going to be hard to crack. Just ask Montenegro, for a disappointing campaign champions by four points going into France.

100 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Star player: Nemanja Vidić Coach Fierce in the tackle and formidable in the air, Nemanja Vidić is widely regarded as one Radomir Antić’s of the best centre-backs in the world. playing career Signed by Belgrade giants Crvena Zvezda at the age of just 14, Vidić wasted little time included an in establishing himself as a fi rst-team regular and eventual team captain. After leading impressive eight- the club to a league and cup double in 2003-04 he was soon on the move to Spartak year spell with Moscow. The Moscow giants were able to hold on to him for just a couple of seasons Partizan, and stints before Manchester United came knocking at the start of 2006. in Turkey, Spain Vidić quickly formed a superb partnership with Rio and England, but Ferdinand at the heart of the Red Devils’ defence, it was as a coach with Zaragoza, Real which proved pivotal to the club’s capture of three Madrid, Oviedo and Atlético Madrid that straight Premier League titles and, in a memorable he truly began to excel – improbably 2008, the UEFA Champions League and FIFA Club guiding Atlético to a league and cup double World Cup. during the fi rst of three spells at the club. His international debut came six years earlier Antić had been out of the game for four when he helped Serbia and Montenegro beat Spain years when he was appointed Serbia coach to top spot in their qualifying group for the 2006 in 2008 but showed no sign of rust in FIFA World Cup™. Alongside Goran Gavrančić, quickly leading the team to World Cup Mladen Krstajić and Ivica Dragutinović, Vidić was qualifi cation ahead of group favourites part of a formidable rearguard that conceded just France. one goal in ten qualifi ers. During fi nal training for the tournament itself, however, the 1.88m defender Possible line-up suffered an agonising injury and was forced to watch GK Vladimir STOJKOVIC his team crash out after three straight defeats, D Antonio RUKAVINA including a 6-0 humbling at the hands of Argentina. D Ivan OBRADOVIC With Vidić back on board for a 2010 FIFA World Cup™ qualifying campaign that D Branislav IVANOVIC included four clean sheets in his eight appearances, a repeat of 2006 seems unlikely. D Nemanja VIDIC “I think we’ll be better prepared than we were four years ago,” Vidić recently told MF Dejan STANKOVIC FIFA.com. “It won’t be easy, but we have a good feeling and believe we’ll give a decent MF Nenad MILIJAS account of ourselves.” MF Milos KRASIC While Serbia will not underestimate a group that includes Germany, Australia and MF Milan JOVANOVIC Ghana, nor will any of those teams take lightly a defence which boasts the 2008-09 F Nikola ZIGIC Premier League player of the season – a man already hailed by his club manager Sir F Marko PANTELIC Alex Ferguson as the best defender in the world. Group-stage opponents, head-to-head record MP W D L GF GA How they qualifi ed GER 27 7 4 16 32 49 European Group 7 AUS 000000 GHA110031 Serbia v. Home Away Faroe Islands 2-0 0-2 France 1-1 2-1 Lithuania 3-0 2-1 Austria 1-0 1-3 Romania 5-0 2-3 What they said “We’re thrilled to have booked a place in South Africa. We’ve Rank Team MP W D L Points 1 Serbia10 71222 proven ourselves to be a strong team. I am sure that we will play 2 France 10 63121 the best we can and not let our fans down at the World Cup.” 3 Austria 10 42414 4 Lithuania 10 4 0 6 12 Serbia forward Nikola Žigić 5 Romania 10 33412 6 Faroe Islands 10 1184

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 101 GROUP D – GHANA

Goalkeeper Richard Kingson is exultant as Ghana head for victory over Nigeria in this year’s Africa Cup of Nations semi-fi nals.

Aside from the South African hosts, without reply. But it was a respectable Much of what makes Ghana a Ghana were the fi rst African nation to enough campaign and one which should formidable force is their world-class qualify for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ give confi dence to the more experienced midfield trio of Essien, Inter Milan’s thanks to a convincing 12-match Ghanaian class of 2010. Sulley Muntari and Bologna’s Stephen qualifi cation campaign that brought eight Appiah, who captains his country. As well wins, one draw and only three defeats. African heavyweights as using their strength to break down Joined at the finals by five other Already well established among the opposition moves, each can provide top- African countries eager to improve on the top teams from their continent, Ghana drawer service to an impressive forward continent’s relatively modest record at the have won the Africa Cup of Nations line chosen from the talents of Stade tournament, Ghana will be looking to build four times (1963, 1965, 1978 and 1982) Rennais’ Asamoah Gyan, Hoffenheim on their experiences of four years ago. The – a record bettered only by seven-time marksman Prince Tagoe and NAC Breda youngest squad to compete at the 2006 champions Egypt. Indeed it was the side’s striker Matthew Amoah. FIFA World Cup™, the Black Stars were disappointing (by their own high standards) Strengthened at the back by centre- unsurprisingly brushed aside 2-0 by eventual third-place fi nish in the competition’s 2008 backs John Mensah and John Pantsil and champions Italy, but showed strong spirit to edition which led to coach Claude Le Roy goalkeeper Richard Kingson, all of whom bounce back with a 2-0 win over the Czech losing his job. Milovan Rajevac eventually play their club football in the English Republic and a 2-1 victory against the USA. replaced him and has now been handed Premier League, Ghana look like being a Lacking Chelsea star Michael Essien due the unenviable task of guiding his charges very tough team to beat. Germany may to suspension, Ghana saw their campaign into the fray against his own Serbian be Group D favourites but there are many end abruptly in the second round when a countrymen (see “Compatriots, friends who believe that the Ghanaians will not rampant Brazil put three goals past them and World Cup rivals” article on page 104). be far behind.

102 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Star player: Michael Essien Coach The muscular frame of Michael Essien, his box-to-box prowling and the menacing The departure of nature of his 100 per cent effort has made Ghana’s current midfi eld king a genuine Claude Le Roy after star of world football. Already viewed by many as being on the same level as previous Ghana’s relatively Ghanaian greats such as Abedi Pele and Tony Yeboah, he is without doubt his country’s disappointing third- most popular current player. Essien is also the vital engine of his country’s national team place finish on as well as a midfi eld linchpin with top English Premier League club Chelsea. home soil at the Now 27 years old, Essien has already amassed a veritable trophy chest of winners’ 2008 Africa Cup medals, including two championships in France, as well as two English Premier League of Nations allowed and cup successes. His GBP 26 million transfer to England in 2005 was a Chelsea record surprise Serbian candidate Milovan Rajevac and still stands as the record for a move to take charge of the Black Stars. A former involving an African international, one defender best known for a brief coaching million pounds more than Manchester stint with Red Star Belgrade, Rajevac has City paid for Togo’s Emmanuel worked wonders before – such as when he Adebayor before last season. Essien led perennial Serbian strugglers FK Borac to earned an instant international profi le their fi rst-ever qualifi cation for a European as Africa’s most expensive footballer tournament – and will be eager to cause when he moved to Chelsea, only a further upsets in South Africa. month later engineering his country’s qualifi cation to their fi rst-ever FIFA Possible line-up World Cup™ fi nals. GK Richard KINGSON At the tournament itself, Essien D John PANTSIL played in all three group-stage matches D Samuel INKOOM as Ghana became the only African side D Eric ADDO to survive, but was then suspended for D John MENSAH the round-of-16 match against Brazil MF Stephen APPIAH and could only watch from the stands MF Anthony ANNAN as his countrymen went down 3-0. MF Michael ESSIEN Something of a reluctant star, Essien MF Sulley MUNTARI could fi nd himself fi rmly in the spotlight F Asamoah GYAN if he can take Ghana to even greater heights in South Africa. The biggest obstacle may F Matthew AMOAH be the knee injury which dogged him throughout last season. Certainly, Ghana’s fans will be praying for a fully fi t Essien come his team’s opening match against Serbia on 13 June. Group-stage opponents, head-to-head record MP W D L GF GA AUS 6 1 1 4 3 7 GER 1 0 0 1 1 6 SRB 1 0 0 1 1 3

How they qualifi ed African Third Round, Group D

Ghana v. Home Away Benin 1-0 1-0 Mali 2-2 0-2 What they said Sudan 2-0 0-2 “This team is very hungry to play in the fi nals again. My players are aware of what they can achieve, and we have the quality to Rank Team MP W D L Points go far. I am very confi dent about the future.” 1 Ghana641113 2 Benin 631210 Milovan Rajevac 3 Mali 62319 4 Sudan 60151

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 103 Antić and Rajevac shake hands after seeing their teams drawn together in Group D at December’s Final Draw. COMPATRIOTS, FRIENDS AND WORLD CUP RIVALS By Vladimir Novak, Belgrade

Group D (Germany, Australia, Serbia, coaches’ shared nationality. But Antić, of years ago, after I fi nished my house in Ghana) promises to be one of the most 61, and Rajevac, 56, have much more in Cajetina (also in the Zlatibor region), I made interesting and unpredictable groups. common than just being compatriots. a similar pitch, so we started organising Not only because the four participants Both were brought up in the same region home and away matches.” all fi nished their qualifying campaigns in of the country (Zlatibor), both turned out As the two men prepare to pit their fi rst place but also because it is the only as left-backs during their playing careers wits against each other on the sport’s group where two national coaches are (although Antić also played in midfi eld), biggest stage, Rajevac can certainly see compatriots – with Serbs Radomir Antić both were appointed as national coaches of the funny side. (Serbia) and Milovan Rajevac (Ghana) going their respective teams in August 2008, and, “I am glad that we are friends and rivals, head-to-head for a place in the knock-out last but not least, they are friends. When but the rivalry in our veteran games is, stage. they meet up in Zlatibor, they regularly play of course, much bigger than the rivalry The pairing together of Radomir Antić’s fi ve-a-side football games together before between Serbia and Ghana,” he adds with Serbia and Milovan Rajevac’s Ghana in indulging in an obligatory “third half”. a laugh. Group D during December’s Final Draw “When Antić built his house in Zlatibor, Nevertheless, neither coach was for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ garnered he also made a 40m x 20m football pitch,” particularly happy following the draw plenty of attention in the two participating Rajevac told FIFA World. ”So, we started in Cape Town. Ironically, both of them countries, primarily because of the two playing veterans’ games there. A couple were the subject of media reports or

104 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 supporters’ comments claiming that the Everyone a winner So nobody should underestimate the pairing was bad for their respective teams. The only man to have coached Spanish Australians.” Some Serbian fans felt that it was a major giants Real Madrid, Barcelona and handicap for their team to have Rajevac, Atlético Madrid, Antić stresses the fact African improvements who worked in his native country until two that all four teams qualifi ed for the 2010 Nor, Rajevac adds, should people years ago and knows everything about FIFA World Cup as group winners, that underestimate Africa. As the continent the Serbian team, pitted against them. Ghana further proved their strength by prepares to host the FIFA World Cup for But Antić does not share those concerns. fi nishing as runners-up at the Africa Cup the fi rst time, the Ghana coach says he has “I think that in the times we are living of Nations, that Australia are a team on seen vast improvements in the way African in, there are no unknown things and no the rise and that Germany, due he says to football is run, even in the two years he secrets,” Antić shrugs. “Through the their mentality, always fare well at major has been there. media and scouting networks, everybody tournaments. “It is true that things are getting better, knows everything about their opponents “As far as our prospects at the that there is more and more investment in nowadays. So I don’t see any problem with tournament are concerned,” he concludes, infrastructure and that every time a country Rajevac guiding Ghana.” hosts an Africa Cup of Nations now we “Before the last team in see four or fi ve new, modern stadiums Anyone but Serbia our group had to going up. On the Ghanaian side, it was evident “Having said that, I think Africa has yet after the draw that Rajevac was not in be drawn, I said to to exploit its huge potential. I would say the best of moods and he did not hide myself ‘just not Serbia’. that at this point African football is using his disappointment about facing his up only 10 to 15 per cent of its possibilities. countrymen. But then that is exactly For example, youth work is still quite “Before the fourth and last team in our who we got.” disorganised. It’s still not uncommon for group had to be drawn, everything was scouts to be taking talented youngsters Ghana’s Serbian coach Milovan Rajevac on good. We got Germany and Australia. I the “luck” of the Group D draw. virtually off the streets and packing them was thinking and I said to myself ‘just not off to foreign countries. There are even two Serbia’. But then that is exactly who we “I am not one of those people who makes players in my team, Matthew Amoah and got and I was quite upset. Firstly, they are promises and puts his players under Eric Addo, who are both at Dutch clubs and a very diffi cult opponent. Secondly, I have increased pressure.” have never played in Ghana.” to play against my compatriots. And third, Relatively unknown outside Serbia before Of course, Rajevac has also heard I knew that in Ghana I would be under his somewhat surprising appointment as the criticisms levelled by some African- pressure.” Ghana coach, Rajevac believes that his born coaches who claim that their own Similarly to Antić, Rajevac was soon team also have a chance of reaching the development and employment chances hearing reports that the pairing was to knockout stage. But he insists that Germany are being hampered by the fashion for the detriment of his team, with some radio and Serbia are the group favourites. African associations to “import” European stations even calling for the coach to be “Germany are clearly the favourites or South American trainers. But the Serb replaced, arguing that it could not be good on paper,” he acknowledges. “They are feels this too will change over time. for a Serbian coach to lead Ghana out traditionally strong at big tournaments. “For now I think that it is because there against his homeland. Whenever they play a World Cup, they are is still much more trust in coaches from “Later, of course, the situation calmed always good at least for the semi-fi nals. Europe and South America because of down,” Rajevac says. “As a matter of fact, They are physically excellent and strong their greater experience and also due to it was not that serious. But it seems like in their heads. their better knowledge of international they have millions of radio stations there, “I know Serbia very well of course. I even football,” he says. “I am more than happy who have 24 hours of programming only trained some current national team players though to have succeeded in guiding on football. So I understand that they must during my time with Red Star Belgrade. I Ghana to their second World Cup and also make up stories.” think that this team is one of the strongest that it has happened for the second time When it comes to their teams’ World in Europe and they have players who are in a row with coaches from Serbia, fi rst Cup chances, both men choose their words starters and key players at some big clubs with Ratomir Dujković and now with me. carefully. in top leagues. In that way we are the best ambassadors “First of all, I consider that our “Then you have Australia, who almost for Serbian football in Africa and can participation itself, for the fi rst time as made it to the quarter-fi nals in Germany also hopefully help improve the image of Serbia, is a privilege and a source of great in 2006. They are also physically strong African football in general.” happiness,” says Antić. and most of their players play in Europe.

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 105 GROUP E – NETHERLANDS

The Dutch were in irrepressible form during their qualifying campaign for 2010.

As one of the biggest footballing nations latest crop of talent. Admittedly, Bert van campaign. Otherwise, it has been business still waiting for their fi rst FIFA World Cup™ Marwijk can point to just one international as usual for the Dutch, with AC Milan title, the Netherlands demonstrated their cap as a player. But as a coach, he has hitman Klaas-Jan Huntelaar and Liverpool’s huge potential once again during the shown a fi ne sensitivity for handling his energetic Dirk Kuyt leading the scoring in latest qualifying campaign – winning all various superstars and turning them into qualifying with three goals each. eight of their games to become the fi rst a devastatingly effi cient collective. Things are no less impressive at the back European team to book their ticket to Taking over from Van Basten as coach where skipper Giovanni van Bronckhorst South Africa. following a EURO 2008 campaign which and the central defensive pairing of André The Dutch experienced heartache at the crackled with potential energy and fantastic Ooijer (PSV Eindhoven) and Joris Mathijsen 1974 FIFA World Cup™ in Germany and fan support throughout the group stage, (Hamburger SV) hold fort. Together again four years later in Argentina, fi nishing only to fi zzle out in the quarter-fi nals with Van der Sar’s successor Maarten as beaten fi nalists on both occasions against Russia, Van Marwijk has not Stekelenburg, they let in just two goals in despite their awe-inspiring “total football”. made massive changes from the squad those eight qualifi ers. In 1988, they achieved their only UEFA he inherited. Whether the current Oranje stars can European Championship triumph, when do what Dutch legends such as Cruyff, goals by Dutch masters Ruud Gullit and Business as usual Neeskens, Krol, Van Basten, Rijkaard, Marco Van Basten gave the side victory He has had to bring in replacements Gullit and Bergkamp failed to do remains over the Soviet Union in Munich. for goalkeeper Edwin Van der Sar and to be seen, but they certainly have the Though Gullit and Van Basten have long prolifi c striker Ruud van Nistelrooy, both potential, prompting many to see this as since hung up their boots, another former of whom announced their retirements the Netherlands’ greatest chance of World Dutch international is now overseeing the from international football after the 2008 Cup glory in years.

106 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Star player: Arjen Robben Coach This brilliant yet injury-prone winger has just completed his most prolifi c season with A modest player in his Bayern Munich, and one season is all it took him to join Franck Ribéry in the hearts of day, with only one the supporters at the Allianz Arena. The former Real Madrid player, aged 26, has lit international cap to up the Bundesliga and the UEFA Champions League. Since his transfer from Real last his name, Bert van summer, viewer ratings in Munich have soared. Marwijk boasts After joining FC Groningen, Arjen Robben made his fi rst appearance in the Eredivisie a much more in December 2000. His speed, ball control and dribbling skills caused havoc in many impressive CV as a a defence. coach, particularly At the age of 18, he was transferred to PSV where he quickly established himself as with Feyenoord Rotterdam, a club he led one of the club’s top players during his fi rst season there in 2002-03. Chelsea pulled out to UEFA Cup glory in 2002. Calm, affable all the stops to sign the prodigious talent and approachable, Van Marwijk, 56, has a and he made his English debut at the age relaxed manner and is close to his players. of 20. A string of injuries followed, but While his style may be different from that Robben was nevertheless able to console of Marco van Basten, nothing seems to himself with the Premier League title. have changed at the tactical level. His In the 2005-06 season, he became record is impeccable. an integral part of the attacking system introduced by José Mourinho and won Possible line-up a second consecutive Premier League GK Maarten STEKELENBURG championship, before being relegated D Gregory VAN DER WIEL to the bench after the return of his D Giovanni VAN BRONCKHORST injury woes. A move to Real Madrid in D Andre OOIJER summer 2007 was supposed to offer the D Joris MATHIJSEN Dutchman a new start, but instead the MF Dirk KUYT injuries persisted and prevented Robben MF Mark VAN BOMMEL from showcasing the full scope of his MF Rafael VAN DER VAART talents with any consistency – something MF Arjen ROBBEN he has fi nally been able to do at Bayern. F Ryan BABEL Robben won his fi rst international cap F Klaas-Jan HUNTELAAR for the Netherlands on 30 April 2003. At the 2006 FIFA World Cup™ in Germany in 2006 he was twice named man of the Group-stage opponents, match, once against Serbia and Montenegro, and then against Côte d’Ivoire, becoming head-to-head record one of only eight players to have achieved this double honour. MP W D L GF GA He arrives in South Africa at the top of his game and his partnership with Wesley CMR 211010 Sneijder and Rafael van der Vaart will give Bert van Marwijk a trio of strikers that the DEN 28 11 10 7 56 40 Oranjes are relying on in their bid to collect their fi rst ever World Cup trophy. JPN 110030

How they qualifi ed European Group 9

Netherlands v. Home Away Macedonia 4-0 1-2 Iceland 2-0 1-2 Norway 2-0 0-1 Scotland 3-0 0-1

Rank Team MP W D L Points What they said 1 Netherlands880024 “We have a mission: that mission is to be world champions.” 2 Norway 824210 3 Scotland 831410 Frank de Boer, assistant coach 4 Macedonia82157 5 Iceland81255

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 107 GROUP E – DENMARK

Denmark’s fans had plenty to cheer as their side pushed qualifying group favourites Portugal into second place.

Already tanning themselves on the beach, progress was fi nally ended by Brazil in an hit two. Other squad members playing at least according to a slightly exaggerated unexpectedly tight 3-2 defeat. at the highest level in Europe include version of events, when they received a A fourth appearance looked against classy Liverpool centre-back Daniel late call-up and improbably went on to the odds when Denmark opened their Agger, midfi elder Daniel Jensen (Werder win the 1992 European Championship in bid for South Africa with a dour 0-0 draw Bremen) and skilful Ajax winger Dennis Sweden, Denmark are well accustomed to in Hungary but a shock 3-2 win against Rommedahl. springing surprises in international football. Portugal in their next outing – after being Formerly of AC Milan, Stuttgart and And yet few experts were backing them 2-1 down with four minutes remaining – Villarreal, 33-year-old Danish skipper Jon in their latest FIFA World Cup™ qualifying set Olsen’s men on their way to automatic Dahl Tomasson has returned to play up campaign, particularly after Morten Olsen’s qualifi cation. Portugal were left to fi ght front for Dutch giants Feyenoord and will side were drawn into a challenging group it out in the European play-offs, while no doubt have some tips for his compatriots alongside Portugal, Sweden and former Sweden (beaten 1-0 home and away by as they prepare for their opener against the greats Hungary. the Danes) were left reeling in third place. Netherlands in Soccer City on 14 June. Although their unlikely triumph in The Danes have beaten the Dutch a Gothenburg 18 years ago remains Experienced squad remarkable seven times, although they have Denmark’s most memorable sporting Denmark’s ten games brought 16 goals also lost out on 11 occasions. Even if that achievement to date, they have a for and fi ve against. MSV Duisburg striker becomes 12 in Johannesburg, the Danish reasonable World Cup record with three Søren Larsen scored fi ve and Arsenal’s Dynamite may still have enough explosive previous appearances, including a run to Nicklas Bendtner three, while Juve’s energy to blow away Cameroon and Japan the quarter-fi nals of France ’98 before their defensive midfi elder Christian Poulsen in their remaining Group E fi xtures.

108 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Star player: Jon Dahl Tomasson Coach Look at the current Denmark line-up and one name stands out above all the others: Jon Morten Olsen is set Dahl Tomasson. Now captain of a side still fondly remembered for its surprise triumph to celebrate ten at the 1992 European Championship, Tomasson is Denmark’s undisputed leader on the years in charge of pitch, and is all set to become his country’s most-capped outfi eld player and perhaps the Danish national also its all-time leading goalscorer after the 2010 FIFA World Cup™. “I’d love to make team during the a bit of history and have my name in the record books,” he reveals. tournament in Tomasson made his debut fur Heerenveen at 17, and had spells at Newcastle and South Africa. At Feyenoord en route to signing for Italian giants AC Milan in 2002. He won the UEFA the helm since Champions League (2003), the Italian league (2004) and the Italian cup with the 2002, he led the Danish Dynamite to the Rossoneri, following which he made 2002 FIFA World Cup™ and EURO 2004 two brief cameos in German and fi nals. It is still unclear whether he will Spanish football before returning to extend his current contract, which is due the Netherlands to sign for former to expire after South Africa. Olsen’s biggest paymasters Feyenoord. “Rotterdam success as a player was Anderlecht’s victory really is home for me,” he says.”We in the 1983 UEFA Cup. He hung up his have a very good, very young team, boots at 40, and before taking the reins and the future is looking bright.” for Denmark he made managerial stops at As for his own future, and the clubs such as Cologne and Ajax. question of whether he might leave the international scene after the 2010 Possible line-up FIFA World Cup, the midfi elder says GK Thomas SORENSEN he has no immediate plans to retire. D Lars JACOBSEN “Honestly, I’m not even thinking about D Per KROLDRUP fi nishing right now. Fortunately, I have D Daniel AGGER no problems with my body and, as long D Simon KJAER as that continues, there’s no reason to MF Dennis ROMMEDAHL stop. I love playing for my country and MF Christian POULSEN I’m very proud to be captain.” MF Daniel JENSEN For now, Tomasson is concentrating MF Jakob POULSEN fully on 2010 and on ensuring that he and the Danish Dynamite qualify once again F Nicklas BENDTNER for the knock-out stages, as they did at the 2002 edition in Korea/Japan. Tomasson F Jon Dahl TOMASSON featured in all four of Denmark’s matches in that tournament and this experience will be invaluable if he is to lead his team to one of the two top spots in a group containing Group-stage opponents, the Netherlands, Japan and Cameroon. head-to-head record MP W D L GF GA CMR 210133 How they qualifi ed JPN 110032 European Group 1 NED 28 7 10 11 40 56

Denmark v. Home Away Hungary 0-1 0-0 Portugal 1-1 2-3 Malta 3-0 0-3 What they said Albania 3-0 1-1 Sweden 1-0 0-1 “Every edition of the World Cup is special with its own magic and unique atmosphere. It’s fantastic that the tournament is being

Rank Team MP W D L Points held in Africa for the fi rst time so that the people there can really 1 Denmark10 63121 experience it up-close. For the players and myself, taking part in 2 Portugal 10 54119 the World Cup is the greatest honour of all.” 3 Sweden 10 53218 4 Hungary 10 51416 Morten Olsen in an exclusive interview with FIFA.com 5 Albania 10 1457 6 Malta 10 0191

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 109 GROUP E – JAPAN

Japan coach Takeshi Okada receives a celebratory soaking from his players after securing World Cup qualifi cation with a 1-0 win in Uzbekistan.

There are similarities between Japan and remains their best World Cup showing Injecting fresh blood into a squad fellow Asian 2010 representatives Korea to date. already much changed from the 2006 Republic that stretch far beyond the two The Blue Samurais’ tournament debut campaign, Okada steered his men through countries’ joint hosting of the 2002 FIFA came at France 1998, where they lost their a solid campaign which included just two World Cup™. Like South Korea, Japan three group games against Argentina, losses in 14 games. The Japanese were are powerhouses in their own backyard, Croatia and Jamaica. Following the indeed the fi rst team to qualify for the winning three of the last fi ve AFC Asian successful campaign of 2002, which tournament, though that owed a good deal Cups. Japan have also proven dependable included their fi rst ever World Cup wins – to the varying schedules of the different of late in qualifying for the World Cup over group-stage opponents Russia and continental confederations. In the end, fi nals, now preparing for their fourth Tunisia – they returned to losing ways at AFC rivals Australia won the fi nal game consecutive appearance compared to the 2006 FIFA World Cup™, succumbing to clinch top spot in the qualifying group. seven-in-a-row for the Koreans. 3-1 to Australia, drawing 0-0 with Croatia Second place would of course be enough The major difference remains in how and receiving a 4-1 thumping from Brazil. again for Japan as they make their fi nal the two sides have performed after preparations for Group E. Certainly they securing their various qualifi cations. Korea Change of plan have a super fi t and disciplined squad Republic have not generally set the world Their plans for the 2010 qualifying whose collective desire is underpinned by stage alight but can of course point to campaign had to be rethought when technically gifted players such as former that heady summer of 2002 when they Bosnian coach Ivica Osim was forced to Celtic and Espanyol midfi elder Shunsuke stunned the elite of Europe to reach a step down after suffering a stroke, but Nakamura. Shinji Okazaki, the 24-year- previously imaginable fourth place fi nish. emergency substitute Takeshi Okada old Shimizu S-Pulse striker, could take on Their Japanese co-hosts were meanwhile stepped in, just as he had done for the Nakamura’s mantle as the new superstar left to look back on a round-of-16 exit at 1998 campaign, and has so far proven a of Japanese football if he gets his chance the hands of Turkey which nevertheless more than adequate replacement. to shine in South Africa.

110 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Star player: Shunsuke Nakamura Coach When Hidetoshi Nakata hung up his boots after Germany 2006, Japan craved a A proven strategist new hero. They found one in the shape of Shunsuke Nakamura, who had made his at both club and international debut six years earlier but came into his own following the legendary national level, midfi elder’s retirement. Takeshi Okada is With extraordinary vision and impeccable precision in his passes, Nakamura is a now in his second supreme playmaker. He is also one of the fi nest dead-ball specialists on the planet. spell as Japan Having played in Italy, Scotland and Spain, the 31-year-old, now back in his homeland, coach, having is a fi gure of huge infl uence in Takeshi Okada’s team and remains one of the most taken charge idolised players in all of Asia. unexpectedly in 2007 when his predecessor Honoured as Japanese Footballer Ivica Osim suffered a stroke. Okada was of the Year in 2000 but agonisingly at the helm when Japan made their fi rst overlooked when it came to Japan’s ever FIFA World Cup™ appearance at squad selection for the 2002 FIFA France 1998, having negotiated a tricky World Cup™ on home soil, Nakamura play-off meeting with Iran, and has since rediscovered his love for the game enjoyed successful spells at club level in Europe, fi rst in Italy with Reggina with Consadole Sapporo and Yokohama and then with Scottish giants Celtic. F. Marinos. Named man of the match on his debut, a victory over Dundee United, Possible line-up Nakamura illuminated Scottish GK Seigo NARAZAKI football during his four years there, D Atsuto UCHIDA enjoying a particularly memorable D Yuichi KOMANO year in 2007 when he helped the D Marcus Tulio TANAKA Bhoys to a league and cup double. D Yuji NAKAZAWA After a less successful spell at M Yasuhito ENDO Espanyol in 2009, Nakamura returned M Shunsuke NAKAMURA to his homeland and current club M Daisuke MATSUI Yokohama F. Marinos in February, M Makoto HASEBE where a return to regular action will F Keiji TAMADA have helped his preparations for F Yoshito OKUBO South Africa. Barring injury, a repeat of his omission from the 2002 squad is now inconceivable for a player who has already Group-stage opponents, shone for his country at the 2003 and 2005 editions of the FIFA Confederations Cup head-to-head record (pocketing the adidas Bronze Shoe in the 2003 edition) and at the 2006 FIFA World MP W D L GF GA Cup Germany™, where he scored in his side’s defeat by Australia. CMR 3 2 1 0 4 0 NED 1 0 0 1 0 3 DEN 1 0 0 1 2 3

How they qualifi ed Asian Fourth Round, Group A

Japan v. Home Away Bahrain 1-0 2-3 Uzbekistan 1-1 0-1 What they said Qatar 1-1 0-3 “We are not going to change our tactics because when I set this Australia 0-0 2-1 team’s basic tactical approach, it was already done with a view

Rank Team MP W D L Points to winning against the world’s biggest teams. Our main target 1 Australia 862020 in South Africa is to reach the semi-fi nals.” 2 Japan 843115 3 Bahrain 831410 Takeshi Okada 4 Qatar 81346 5 Uzbekistan 81164

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 111 GROUP E PROFILE – CAMEROON

Alexandre Song takes a tumble during Cameroon’s Africa Cup of Nations match against Gabon in January.

Plenty of neutral supporters will be have made it to the last eight of a FIFA All that though will be history when hoping to see an African team do well in World Cup and although many more the current squad take to the pitch for 2010, as the FIFA World Cup™ is contested were expected to follow, only Senegal their opening game against Japan on for the fi rst time on African soil. And, given in 2002 have so far matched that 14 June. What will count then is the extent their impressive record in earlier editions achievement. to which Cameroon can combine the team of football’s most prestigious competition, camaraderie of old with their undeniable Cameroon could well be the team to fulfi l Consistent performers individual talents. those wishes. Those favouring Cameroon themselves Inter Milan striker Samuel Eto’o is The Italia ’90 campaign is, of course, to emerge as the strongest African side undoubtedly the star of the show, Cameroon’s most fondly remembered in 2010 are quick to point out that the demonstrating his worth once again by tournament – an agile, colourful and West Africans have a World Cup pedigree scoring nine goals in 11 qualifi ers. RCD thrilling campaign that began with a 1-0 that is not only reliant on their 1990 Mallorca’s 28-year-old hitman Pierre Webó upset of Argentina in the San Siro (a result performances. Les Lions Indomptables could also be a major threat if opposing still regarded as one of the biggest ever (Indomitable Lions) have played more defences pay too much attention to Eto’o, World Cup shocks) and only ended with a games (17) and won more points than while Lyon’s Jean Makoun, Marseille’s narrow 3-2 defeat against England in the any other African side at the finals. Stéphane Mbia and Arsenal’s Alexandre quarter-fi nals. They are also now preparing for their Song (cousin of defensive lynchpin The Roger Milla-inspired Cameroonians sixth appearance in the fi nals – another Rigobert) give the midfi eld strength and of 1990 were the fi rst African team to continental best. composure.

112 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Star player: Samuel Eto’o Coach The day Samuel Eto’o decides to end his professional career, there is no doubt whatsoever On the strength he will have earned his place in the pantheon of world football. Having amassed more of the experience honours than any other African player, he already reigns supreme in the hearts of gained with Lyon, Cameroon’s supporters alongside the Old Lion Roger Milla. Rangers and Paris After several unsuccessful trials with European clubs, his prodigious talent was Saint-Germain, spotted by Real Madrid, who included him in their youth teams as early as 1996. He Frenchman Paul Le played very few matches in his four years Guen has brought with the Merengues and was subsequently a wind of change loaned to other clubs before transferring to and professionalism into the ranks of the Mallorca, where the Eto’o legend fi rst began Cameroon squad. His controversial decision to take shape. to give the captain’s armband to Samuel Between 2000 and 2004, his clinical Eto’o rather than veteran Rigobert Song fi nishing in front of goal was instrumental appears to have given renewed motivation in the club winning its fi rst title, the Copa to the two players and the team as a whole. del Rey, in 2003. However, after complex three-way negotiations with Mallorca, Possible line-up Real and Barça, Eto’o fi nally committed to GK Idriss KAMENI entertaining the gallery at the Nou Camp. D Sebastien BASSONG He was true to his word from the outset, D Nicolas NKOULOU and after fi ve seasons with the Catalan D GEREMI club his glorious record included two UEFA D Rigobert SONG Champions League titles (2006 and 2009), MF Jean MAKOUN three La Liga titles (2005, 2006 and 2009), MF Stephane MBIA one Copa del Rey (2009) and two Supercopa MF Achille EMANA de España titles (2006 and 2007). MF Alexandre SONG After clashing with Josep Guardiola at the F Samuel ETOO end of the 2008-09 season, Eto’o decided to F Pierre WEBO look for a new challenge elsewhere, turning to Italy and José Mourinho’s Inter Milan. Within months of his arrival, he had already Group-stage opponents, formed a prolifi c duo with Argentina’s Diego Milito. head-to-head record Since his debut for Cameroon aged 15 in a friendly against Costa Rica, he has won MP W D L GF GA the Africa Cup of Nations twice (2000 and 2002) as well as gold in the Men’s Olympic DEN 2 1 0 1 3 3 Football Tournament in Sydney in 2000. What is more, he has picked up a number of JPN 3 0 1 2 0 4 individual accolades, including a record three African Player of the Year awards (2003, NED 2 0 1 1 0 1 2004, 2005), as well as being the all-time leading goalscorer in the Africa Cup of Nations and for the Indomitable Lions. Since the appointment of Paul Le Guen as head coach, he also wears the captain’s armband for his country.

How they qualifi ed African Third Round, Group A

Cameroon v. Home Away What they said Togo 3-0 1-0 “People now believe in us once again. It’s a great achievement Morocco 0-0 0-2 for all of us to be able to play in a World Cup, especially one in Gabon 2-1 0-2 Africa. We are dangerous because we are experienced and we Rank Team MP W D L Points have learned to play as a team.” 1 Cameroon641113 2 Gabon 63039 Samuel Eto’o 3 Togo 6222 8 4 Morocco 60333

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 113 The Dutch fans are getting ready to paint South Africa orange in June. DUTCH AT HOME IN RAINBOW NATION

By Mark Gleeson, Cape Town

Dutch supporters travelling to South highly rated team, installed among the pre- 1803 and then again permanently from Africa for this year’s FIFA World Cup™ will tournament favourites after a convincing 1806, as a result of the Napoleonic Wars. fi nd plenty of familiar sights and sounds – European qualifying campaign. Though far Today, approximately 70 per cent from their historic links with the Afrikaans from home, the supporters and their players of South Africa’s white population are people to more recent footballing ties. will encounter much that is familiar as they Afrikaans-speaking descendents of those It was in 1652 that the Dutch adventurer travel around the country. Most obviously early Dutch colonists and French Huguenot Johan van Riebeeck sailed into Table Bay, there is the Afrikaans language, an offshoot refugees, with the other roughly 30 catching sight of a spectacular fl at-topped of their own tongue. Then there are the per cent tracing their roots back to the mountain that has enthralled travellers street signs and place names taken from the subsequent English migration. to the Cape of Storms ever since. Van Netherlands, and the common architectural Riebeeck’s arrival marked the start of the traits which can be found in some of South New faces fi rst European settlement in South Africa Africa’s older buildings. But there have also been newer arrivals of and also the beginning of a long colonial The Dutch ruled the Cape Colony from course, including a number of faces that history between the Hollanders and the 1652, using it fi rst as a replenishment will be familiar to both Dutch and South 2010 FIFA World Cup™ hosts. station for ships on their way to trade in African football afi cionados. Ruud Krol, More than 350 years later, the Dutch India and Java. Dutch farmers settled the the Dutch defensive stalwart who played are set to descend upon South Africa area around Cape Town and further into in two FIFA World Cup fi nals, is just one once more, this time with their hordes of the interior over the next century, before example. Now serving as the coach of orange-clad football fans and of course their the British seized the colony from 1795 to Soweto giants Orlando Pirates, Krol will

114 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 be especially visible during the tournament club and was ever-present throughout last on a new pitch and club house for Wits where he is working as a pundit for South season’s campaign. and also collaborated with the club in an African television. “The Dutch are helping a lot in terms ongoing social responsibility project to Or there is the popular Frisian Foppe of trying to encourage the young players “coach the coaches”. de Haan, long-time coach of Heerenveen in South Africa to be more professional,” “The Dutch have been fantastic. They have and winner of two UEFA European U-21 Vonk told FIFA World. “Not only on the come in to prepare for the World Cup very championships. Since October, De Haan has fi eld but in their whole outlook on life. professionally and at the same time looked been coaching Ajax –not the Amsterdam They have been working really hard in the to give something back,” Wits coach Roger giants, but rather Ajax Cape Town, a youth structures.” de Sa told FIFA World. “We are working with franchise operation co-owned by the fabled For several years, Ajax Amsterdam’s them on coaching 2,014 coaches in time for Dutch club and their South African partners. Dutch rivals Feyenoord also operated a the 2014 FIFA World Cup™. We are taking Formed in 1999 following the merger South African academy in conjunction ex-players off the street and giving them a of Seven Stars and Cape Town Spurs, and with SuperSport United – South African salary and they are going off to inner-city the subsequent sale of half the new club’s league champions for the past three schools every day to work with the kids there. shares to Ajax Amsterdam, Ajax Cape seasons. Although no longer in operation, (Former Netherlands coach) Frank Rijkaard Town has emerged as a major player in this partnership provided several talented came out to coach the coaches fi rst and the South Africa’s domestic football scene – young South African players with a step up Dutch have kept up their support by paying twice fi nishing as league runners-up and into European football. Teenage midfi elder the salaries of these coaches. We have 20 in winning several cup competitions. Kamohelo Mokotjo is one recent example place already, many of them guys who would Adding to the surrealism for Dutch fans who is now considered by many at the not have had such opportunities after their who want to drop by the Cape Town club Rotterdam club as a future star. playing careers ended.” during their World Cup visit, the local version With South Africa now fi rmly welcomed South Africa’s already strong links of Ajax have adopted the badge and red back into the international footballing with the Netherlands would of course be and white colours of their Dutch namesakes family, it is not only Dutch clubs but also cemented considerably if the Dutch were and imported coaches from Holland to set the national association which has been to fi nally end their long wait for World up an academy that is thriving today and embracing its links with the Rainbow Nation. Cup glory in Johannesburg on 11 July. producing stars for the future. Last year, the KNVB (Royal Dutch Football Certainly the Dutch investments made in Union) travelled to South Africa, even before South African football, from the grassroots Talented players completing their successful qualifying up to the elite level, should help garner “The players are technically gifted and campaign, to seek out a base camp for popular support at the tournament for skilful and the pace of the professional their team. Having chosen a Johannesburg the current Netherlands squad, up until league is very intense,” says De Haan hotel and training facilities at BIDVest Wits, at least the semi-fi nals – the fi rst point at when asked about the level of play in another of the South African Premier Soccer which it would be possible for the Dutch South Africa’s Premier Soccer League (PSL). League teams, the association started work to come up against Bafana Bafana… “There is still a lot of work to be done but it is generally at a very good level.” Steven Pienaar, who will be the potential talisman for South Africa’s national side Bafana Bafana at this FIFA World Cup, is one of many players to have come through the Ajax Cape Town system, while current player Lance Davids was among those in contention for a place in the Bafana Bafana World Cup squad as FIFA World went to print. Former South Africa goalkeeper Hans Vonk is another Ajax Cape Town player with strong Dutch connections, having been born in South Africa to Dutch parents who then returned to the Netherlands when Vonk was a toddler. He returned 28 years later to play for the country at the 1998 FIFA World Cup™. Now aged 40, he is still fi rst-choice keeper for the Cape Town Cape Town’s Bo-Kaap district has drawn inspiration from colonial Dutch architecture.

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 115 GROUP F – ITALY

Italy striker Alberto Gilardino celebrates the late equaliser in Dublin which ensured his team’s qualifi cation for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™.

Can reigning champions Italy retain the record certainly owes a good deal to their honours in 2006 when he became the FIFA World Cup™? It would not be the consistency in qualifying. The Azzurri have fi rst and only defender so far to win the fi rst time. Four-time winners of the event played in all but two of the tournament’s FIFA World Player of the Year award. overall, they fi rst won the title on home soil previous editions, having decided not to Creative Milan free-kick specialist in 1934 before successfully defending it in take part in the inaugural 1930 fi nals, Andrea Pirlo still features in the midfi eld, France four years later. Brazil are the only before missing out for the only time in together with his fi ercely competitive other team to have been world champions their history in 1958. 32-year-old club mate Gennaro Gattuso. in successive campaigns, doing so in 1958 This time around, Marcello Lippi’s Up front, Fiorentina striker Alberto and 1962, so the question now is whether men were generally untroubled, with Gilardino, a relative youngster by Italian Italy can manage the feat twice. only the Republic of Ireland putting up standards at the age of 27, appears to be Italy’s other World Cup triumphs came resistance as the Italians secured top in fi ne form after fi nishing as top scorer in in Spain in 1982, where they beat West spot in their group with seven wins and qualifying with four goals, including the Germany 3-1, and in 2006, when they three draws. campaign’s decisive goal against the Irish outwitted France 5-3 on penalties following and a 15-minute hat trick against Cyprus. a gripping contest that fi nished 1-1 after Familiar faces The squad’s collective age will of 120 minutes at Berlin’s Olympiastadion. Little-changed since their triumph in course be a subject of debate again in They have also been runners-up on two Germany four years ago, the Italian squad 2010, with Lippi expected once more to occasions, in 1970 and 1994, losing out still relies on Juve’s veteran keeper Gianluigi favour experience over experimentation. each time to Brazil. Buffon who is as hard to beat as ever. Even Some fear it could all end with Italy When it comes to the FIFA World Cup, getting near to Buffon requires opponents limping out as old-age failures, but a just like any other competition, you have to to fi rst get past tireless centre-back Fabio repeat of the country’s age-old success be in it to win it and the Italians’ impressive Cannavaro, who also won individual seems equally likely.

116 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Star player: Gianluigi Buffon Coach Gianluigi Buffon is a worthy successor to a long line of exceptional goalkeepers that Marcello Lippi is a includes Giampiero Combi, Aldo Olivieri and Dino Zoff. Every great team needs a fine tactician who great goalie, as Italy knows better than any other team. Buffon appears to have no plays his cards very weaknesses. It is no wonder, then, that he has been voted Serie A Goalkeeper of the close to his chest. Year nine times and best goalkeeper in the world four times. He senses the run The Tuscan player made his Serie A debut with of play and his Parma at the age of only 17, on 19 November tactical choices are 1995, in a 0-0 home draw against AC Milan. never called into Tall and slim, Buffon has the perfect build for a question. At 62 he has won everything goalkeeper. He pulls off exceptional saves and during his career as a coach. And it was rarely comes second in a one-on-one situation. precisely for that reason that, on 12 July Displaying a disconcerting ease even when 2006, at the height of his glory, he decided making the most spectacular of saves, he is to move on. But after Italy’s failure at EURO a truly great player. He went on to make 168 2008, he was recalled to tend the ailing appearances in six seasons for Parma, picking squad. To him, his record of 31 consecutive up one Coppa Italia, one Supercoppa Italiana international matches without defeat is and the UEFA Cup before joining Juventus in incidental. 2001. In his very fi rst season he made all the difference, playing a pivotal role in his side’s Possible line-up victory. He has been a linchpin of the Piedmont GK Gianluigi BUFFON club ever since. D Gianluca ZAMBROTTA Buffon won his fi rst international cap in D Domenico CRISCITO October 1997 in an away match against Russia. D Fabio CANNAVARO The following season he was called up for the D Giorgio CHIELLINI 1998 FIFA World Cup™ in France, as reserve MF Daniele DE ROSSI goalkeeper for the Squadra Azzurra. MF Gennaro GATTUSO But his supreme moment came at the age MF Andrea PIRLO of 28 at the 2006 FIFA World Cup™, where MF Mauro CAMORANESI he won his fi rst international trophy with the F Antonio DI NATALE Italian squad. During the fi nal against France, which Italy won 5-3 on penalties after F Alberto GILARDINO a 1-1 draw, he excelled in the 103rd minute with a spectacular dive to save a header from Zinédine Zidane. Then, during the penalty shoot-out, he won his duel against his Group-stage opponents, Juventus team-mate, David Trezeguet. Gianluigi Buffon is now planning similar exploits head-to-head record in South Africa. MP W D L GF GA PAR 110043 NZL 220051 How they qualifi ed SVK 110030 European Group 8

Italy v. Home Away Cyprus 3-2 1-2 Georgia 2-0 0-2 Bulgaria 2-0 0-0 Montenegro 2-1 0-2 Ireland 1-1 2-2 What they said

Rank Team MP W D L Points “No team is superior to Italy. I don’t want to say that we’re better 1Italy1073024 than everyone, but you might say that we’re not inferior to any 2Ireland 1046018 other team.” 3Bulgaria 1035214 4Cyprus 102359 Marcello Lippi 5Montenegro 101639 6Georgia 100373

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 117 GROUP F – PARAGUAY

Goalkeeper Justo Villar is in the thick of things during the 1-0 win over Argentina which prompted a national holiday in Paraguay.

The loss of players to injury or illness shortly goals that the experienced and versatile Following the shock events of January, before the start of a major tournament is a forward served up for the South Americans. the country will now be relying on Borussia familiar concern for all football teams, but In total, Cabañas provided a quarter of the Dortmund striker Nelson Váldez, Benfi ca thankfully few have to face tragedies like team’s strikes, as the Albirroja (white and forward Oscar Cardozo, Manchester City’s the one that struck Paraguay at the start reds) ended their gruelling 18-match run Santa Cruz or Cruz Azul midfi elder Cristian of this year. Widely expected to be one of in a highly respectable third place – behind Riveros to provide the goals, and looking the stars of the 2010 FIFA World Cup™, fellow 2010 participants Brazil and Chile. to veteran goalkeeper Justo Villar to rescue striker Salvador Cabañas appeared to have them when necessary at the back. With been in the wrong place at the wrong National holiday a tough opening game against world time when a January shooting incident The campaign brought wins over Uruguay, champions Italy, Paraguay are chasing a in a Mexico City bar left him in a critical Ecuador, Chile, Venezuela, Colombia, Peru so-far elusive place in the FIFA World Cup™ condition with a bullet lodged in his head. and Venezuela, but the pick came in June quarter-fi nals, having three times made it Despite an almost miraculous recovery 2008, when goals by Roque Santa Cruz as far as the second round, most recently since then, Cabañas will not feature in and Cabañas gave Paraguay a 2-0 victory in 1998 and 2002. South Africa, and the footballing world over Brazil in Asunción. Argentinian coach Many a footballing legend has been will just be happy to see him back at the Gerardo Martino’s side confi rmed their written by teams that have bounced back top level anytime in the future. place in South Africa with a 1-0 defeat from adversities off the pitch, and Salvador His compatriots will therefore have to of Argentina in Asunción in September, Cabañas is likely to play an inspirational role soldier on without him, which is no easy prompting Paraguay President Fernando for the Paraguayans in South Africa even task when you consider the six qualifying Lugo to declare a national holiday. if he is sorely missed on the fi eld.

118 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Star player: Roque Santa Cruz Coach Roque Santa Cruz is of major importance to Paraguay. As he prepares to contest his Gerardo Martino third consecutive FIFA World Cup™, he is now one of his country’s key players and is yet another thus bears a certain degree of responsibility. His talent for scoring goals and causing Argentinian tactician problems for opposing defences, impressive build (1.91m tall and 88kg) and bursts of currently excelling in pace into the box have never been in doubt. He has had to contend with a series of the South American injuries in the last few seasons, which continued into his fi rst term with up-and-coming game. He spent the Manchester City in the English Premier League as he suffered from tendinitis in his knee early part of his and a calf strain. coaching career Towards the end of the season, he recovered his form and at a number of lesser-known sides in helped to create a fearsome attack with fellow international his native country. Often compared to stars Carlos Tevez and Emmanuel Adebayor. When he is at his mentor Marcelo Bielsa, Martino was his best, Santa Cruz can make a difference to any team, as rewarded for his efforts in 2006 when he showed in his time at Bayern Munich, where he played he accepted the invitation to take over for eight years from 1999 to 2007, winning the 2001 the Paraguayan national side. The hard- Intercontinental Cup and UEFA Champions League and the working Argentinian proved to be an Bundesliga title four times, and at Blackburn Rovers, where inspired choice, keeping a low profi le as he played from 2007 to 2009. his side negotiated their way to South His brief participation in the CONMEBOL preliminary Africa 2010 in record-breaking fashion. competition for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ was also decisive. Although he only played in fi ve of Paraguay’s 18 matches, he still Possible line-up left his mark, scoring three goals and amassing four victories, two of which stand out GK Justo VILLAR in particular – his country’s impressive 3-0 win over Chile in Santiago and their 2-0 win D Denis CANIZA over Brazil in Asunción, in which he was on the scoresheet. D Julio Cesar CACERES Although Paraguay eventually fi nished third in their qualifying group, the fact that D Claudio MOREL they were top of the group for the majority of the time will certainly encourage Gerardo D Dario VERON Martino’s men and their fans. Having played 29 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches for MF Cristian RIVEROS Paraguay and seven matches in the tournament proper, Santa Cruz is now showing MF Edgar BARRETO that his best may be yet to come. MF Enrique VERA MF Victor CACERES How they qualifi ed F Roque SANTA CRUZ South American Group F Nelson VALDEZ

Paraguay v. Home Away Group-stage opponents, Peru 1-0 0-0 head-to-head record Uruguay 1-0 2-0 Ecuador 5-1 1-1 MP W D L GF GA Chile 0-2 0-3 ITA 200215 Brazil 2-0 2-1 NZL 110032 Bolivia 1-0 4-2 SVK 000000 Argentina 1-0 1-1 Venezuela 2-0 1-2 What they said Colombia 0-2 0-1 “The secret to our qualifi cation was the fact that the players and all the professionals involved with the national team went about Rank Team MP W D L Points their job responsibly and with a minimum of fuss. If we had 1 Brazil1897234 failed to do what previous coaches achieved and missed out on 2 Chile18103533 qualifying, then we would have become a negative footnote in 3 Paraguay18103533 Paraguay’s footballing history. Anyone who coaches a national 4 Argentina1884628 5 Uruguay1866624 team does so for one of two reasons: to stay in the job or go 6 Ecuador1865723 down in history. I have chosen the second option”. 7Colombia1865723 8 Venezuela1864822 Gerardo Martino 9 Bolivia18431115 10 Peru18341113

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 119 GROUP F – NEW ZEALAND

Rory Fallon punches the air after scoring New Zealand’s decisive qualifying goal against Bahrain.

Having worked so hard to step out of Coming into this year’s edition in keen to build on the success of his eight the shadow of their more illustrious All South Africa as Oceania’s leading team – goals in qualifi cation. Black rugby-playing counterparts, the following Australia’s move to the Asian Though long absent from the FIFA footballing All Whites of New Zealand Football Confederation – New Zealand are World Cup, the New Zealanders are will nevertheless be hoping that their 2010 expected to face another uphill struggle no strangers to South Africa – having FIFA World Cup™ campaign can show in a group containing defending world picked up some valuable international some of the legendary resolve and never- champions Italy, customary World Cup experience in the country during last year’s say-die attitude which has made their small participants Paraguay and keen debutants FIFA Confederations Cup. The squad will island nation such a formidable force with Slovakia. perhaps not want to dwell too long on the the oval-shaped ball. 5-0 footballing lesson handed out to them New Zealand have qualifi ed on only Hard workers by Spain in their opening match, but will one previous occasion for the FIFA World Coach Ricki Herbert has fashioned a take heart from their closing 0-0 draw with Cup™ – reaching the 1982 fi nals after a hardworking and disciplined squad that Iraq and their narrow 3-2 defeat against lengthy 15-match campaign which still plays a direct and often physical brand the Italians in a friendly warm-up played ranks as one of the country’s fi nest sporting of football. His captain and centre-back just before the event. moments outside of rugby or cricket. At Ryan Nelsen is perhaps New Zealand’s A similar level of performance will be the tournament proper in Spain, the Kiwis best-known footballing export, playing as required against the world champions in were beaten in all three games after being he does for Blackburn Rovers in the English their 20 June reunion if the All White are placed in a tough group alongside Brazil, Premier League. German-born Gold Coast to ensure that the Azzurri are the ones the Soviet Union and Scotland. United striker Shane Smeltz will also be leaving the pitch pale-faced.

120 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Star player: Ryan Nelsen Coach National team captain and defensive rock Ryan Nelsen is far and away New Zealand’s In the unique position most recognisable name, and arguably second only to Wynton Rufer as the most of having twice respected Kiwi footballer of all time. The inspirational skipper debuted for the All represented New Whites eleven years ago but injury and club commitments have restricted his number Zealand at the of appearances at international level. FIFA World Cup, Long a fans’ favourite at Blackburn Rovers, fi rst as a player in the mobile central defender is now in his 1982 and now as sixth year at Ewood Park where he has team coach, Ricki penned a deal through to 2012. In 2007 he Herbert is one of Kiwi football’s most became the fi rst New Zealander to appear recognised fi gures. Combining his All in an FA Cup fi nal, only to suffer defeat Whites position with his role coaching New in extra time against Chelsea. He is also Zealand’s Wellington Phoenix in Australia’s just one of fi ve New Zealanders to have A-League, Herbert has helped transform played in the English Premier League, with the All Whites into a solid working unit. current All Whites Simon Elliott and Chris Wood also amongst that elite group. The Possible line-up Rovers defensive stalwart has played some GK Mark PASTON 150 matches for Blackburn even though D Tony LOCHHEAD he missed almost an entire season with a D Ben SIGMUND serious hamstring injury. D Ryan NELSEN Very much the heartbeat of the team D Dave MULLIGAN thanks to his profi le and leadership on the MF Aaron CLAPHAM pitch, Nelsen’s organisational skills cannot MF Tim BROWN be underestimated. Though only rarely MF Leo BERTOS fi nding the net at club level, the Christchurch MF Chris KILLEN native has scored several goals for the national team and is always a danger at set F Rory FALLON pieces. He would have joined a rare group of players to have competed in three FIFA F Shane SMELTZ Confederations Cups, having appeared at Mexico in 1999 and France in 2003, only for the injury curse to strike again just prior to South Africa 2009. Group-stage opponents, His international career highlight to date was undoubtedly captaining New Zealand head-to-head record in their two-legged play-off against Bahrain that ensured qualifi cation for the world’s MP W D L GF GA greatest football competition for the fi rst time in 28 years. At South Africa 2010, Nelsen ITA 100134 will join former All Whites captain Steve Sumner as the only players to lead the nation PAR 100123 in a FIFA World Cup™. SVK 000000

How they qualifi ed Oceania Second Round / AFC-OFC Play-off*

New Zealand v. Home Away Fiji 0 -2 0 -2 Vanuatu 4-1 1-2 N ew Caledonia 3 - 0 1-3 What they said Bahrain* 1-0 0-0 “This group have given it everything, four years of total commitment. We’re back, we’re there. South Africa, here we Rank Team MP W D L Points come.” 1 New Zealand650115 2 New Caledonia 62228 Ricki Herbert 3 Fiji 62137 4 Vanuatu 61144

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 121 GROUP F – SLOVAKIA

Stanislav Šesták slides with joy after scoring against Slovakia’s neighbours from the Czech Republic.

Not counting Serbia, who took part Just getting past the group stage this to make up for his nine-game qualifying as Serbia and Montenegro in the 2006 time around will be quite a feat, however, drought. FIFA World Cup™, Slovakia will be the after Slovakia were drawn into the same Coach Vladimír Weiss should also have only country making their FIFA World group as the defending world champions, the unusual option of putting his own Cup™ debut at this year’s tournament. Italy. But having already punched above name on the team line-up. It is not that After celebrating independence just 18 their supposed weight when they topped the 45-year-old trainer fancies the thought years ago, following a peaceful split from their qualifying group, in particular enjoying of adding to the 12 caps he won as a the Czech Republic, it is a remarkable signifi cant away wins over all three of player, but simply that his 20-year-old son, sporting achievement and one which their “bigger” group rivals, Slovakia should also called Vladimír, is starting to establish was fully deserved after a hotly contested certainly not be written off again in South himself within the national set-up. qualifying tussle with their Czech and Polish Africa. Weiss junior, who looked extremely sharp neighbours and Northern Ireland. in his four qualifying campaign appearances, Of course, Slovakia share a strong Stan the man could become the third Vladimír Weiss to footballing history with the Czechs, and Opposing defences will do well to keep play at a major international tournament. together – as Czechoslovakia – they contested up with Bochum hitman Stanislav Šesták His father did so with Czechoslovakia at the eight FIFA World Cup fi nal tournaments, and who fi nished as top-scorer with six of 1990 FIFA World Cup™ while his father in fi nished runners-up twice, all of which will his country’s 22 qualifying goals. While turn was an Olympic Football Tournament have made their qualifi cation at the expense Šesták looks to continue in that rich silver medallist, again with Czechoslovakia, of their former compatriots all the sweeter. scoring vein, Róbert Vittek will be eager in 1964.

122 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Star player: Marek Hamšík Coach Aged 22, Slovakia’s Marek Hamšík is only just at the threshold of his football career. Vladimír Weiss, a And yet he already appears to be at the top of his game. As a key player not only in the former Slovakian Napoli side, but also in Slovakia’s national squad, he will be the trump card in Vladimír international, was Weiss’s team at the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ in South Africa. appointed national He was only 17 when he left his fi rst professional club for new horizons. He chose to coach in June swap the colours of Slovan Bratislava for those of Brescia. And it was in Italy’s Serie B 2008. He earned that this young attacking midfi elder served his apprenticeship. After a year learning his spurs in charge his trade, he had a breakthrough season in 2006-07, scoring ten goals in 40 matches of Artmedia and enjoying a growing infl uence as a playmaker – progress which had not escaped Bratislava in Slovakia, which he led to the notice of the Napoli talent scouts. the group stage of the UEFA Champions Hamšík is a dogged, complete player League in 2005-06. He then took over as equally capable of defending, distributing head coach of the national team, achieving the ball and slipping through even the outstanding success. He is also the father of slightest of gaps, never afraid to try his Vladimír Weiss, the Slovakian international luck with a powerful strike that often hits who is at Manchester City. the target. His debut with the national team on 7 February 2007 in a friendly Possible line-up against Poland (2-2) was the fi rst of many GK Jan MUCHA caps. From summer 2007 onwards, he D Peter PEKARIK became a regular and scored his fi rst goal D Radoslav ZABAVNIK for Slovakia on 13 October 2007 against D Jan DURICA San Marino. He was even made captain D Martin SKRTEL for the crunch match away to Poland MF Zdenko STRBA (1-0) that gave Slovakia their fi rst-ever MF Marek HAMSIK qualifi cation for the World Cup fi nals. MF Miroslav KARHAN The captain’s role is one that suits him F Stanislav SESTAK down to the ground and may well be his F Erik JENDRISEK for some time to come. F Robert VITTEK The Slovakian midfi elder’s attractive CV combined with his impressive track Group-stage opponents, record at Napoli in Serie A has of course head-to-head record attracted the attention of Europe’s top MP W D L GF GA clubs. There is talk of the young Slovak joining the Blues at Chelsea or possibly the Sky ITA 100103 Blues at Manchester City. A story to be continued ... especially in South Africa! PAR 000000 NZL 000000

How they qualifi ed European Group 3

Slovakia v. Home Away Northern Ireland 2-1 0-2 Slovenia 0-2 2-1 San Marino 7-0 1-3 Poland 2-1 0-1 Czech Republic 2-2 1-2

Rank Team MP W D L Points 1Slovakia1071222 What they said 2Slovenia 1062220 “We’re very persistent, we don’t give up until we’ve succeeded.” 3Czech Rep. 1044216 4 North. Ireland 1043315 Stanislav Šesták, striker 5Poland 1032511 6San Marino 1000100

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 123 OLD AND NEW ZEALAND

White knights: New Zealand’s 1982 FIFA World Cup™ squad and the country’s current stars.

By Gordon Glen Watson, Auckland

When New Zealand take to the fi eld decisive qualifying goal against Bahrain in country faced high unemployment and a against FIFA World Cup™ debutants November. fi nancial crisis, and rugby union – almost Slovakia in Rustenburg on 15 June for Despite those striking similarities, a national religion – had become a source their opening game at the 2010 FIFA World however, the comparison between the of discomfort after the New Zealand All Cup™, expectations of their progress New Zealand campaign of 1982 and Blacks hosted an unpopular tour by the beyond the tournament’s group stage are the successful journey to this year’s South African rugby team during the unlikely to be much higher than for their tournament is generally like comparing apartheid era. last World Cup appearance in 1982. Other apples with oranges. While the 2010 squad In a play on the nickname of their parallels between the two eras involve is made up entirely of professionals, many rugby-playing counterparts, the New some of the people with links to both of whom now play their club football in Zealand national football team adopted campaigns, starting with Ricki Herbert, – England, Scotland or the USA, the 1982 the All Whites moniker halfway through formerly the reliable central defender, ever- team was still largely amateur, nearly the campaign, fi tting in nicely with their present during the 1982 campaign, who is all based at home or in Australia and, clean-cut image and lack of political now preparing to lead out the class of 2010 most signifi cantly, playing a sport which baggage. What helped even more though as head coach. Then there is the father-son commanded very little attention in the was the fl ying start that they made to connection between then-coach Kevin national media. their qualifying campaign, including two Fallon and Rory Fallon, the new addition The early 1980s were a time of great early results against the “old enemy”, to the All Whites squad who provided the turmoil and change in New Zealand. The Australia. A thrilling 3-3 draw in Auckland

124 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 was followed up with a convincing 2-0 By 2004, the gap between New Zealand coverage of the All Blacks rugby tour to away win in Sydney – performances which and the rest of Oceania had also closed the Northern Hemisphere disappeared off immediately endeared the team to Kiwi and when Vanuatu beat New Zealand the back pages of the daily newspapers as sports fans. Emphatic wins, such as their 4-2 to end Kiwi hopes of qualifying for football fever took over. then-World Cup record 13-0 victory over the 2006 FIFA World Cup™, many were Defender Ivan Vicelich recalls the scene Fiji, also helped. heralding the end for football as a serious at a sold-out Wellington Stadium. “The At the fi nals themselves, New Zealand sport in New Zealand altogether. In the crowd were incredible – there were 35,000 could do little more than make up the short term, the defeat to Vanuatu had left people there, all dressed in national team tournament numbers, although the two an empty match calendar in its wake and colours and they didn’t stop singing for goals they scored in their opening 5-2 thoughts of qualifi cation for South Africa the entire match, which is very unusual defeat to Scotland were to ultimately seemed fanciful. in New Zealand sport – the crowd was so ensure the Scots’ elimination in third place Unlike in 1982, the 2010 campaign would vocal it gave us a big lift.” behind the Soviet Union on goal difference. contain relatively few matches – with just Despite their own early exit, New three home-and-away ties to determine “That goal brought Zealand were the Oceania champions, followed by a able to inspire two-legged play-off against Asia’s fi fth- everybody together – the a previously placed team – and large gaps of almost a team of 1982 and 2010. unimaginable year at a time between the three groups level of World of matches. It was just pure joy and Cup fever back Helped certainly by Australia’s elation.” home, lasting decision to move to the Asian Football Kevin Fallon, 1982 squad member and father right up until the Confederation, New Zealand still had to of 2010 goal hero Rory Fallon final kick of the prove their credentials as the region’s new ball in their 4-0 “powerhouse”. The results in the Oceania The players returned the favour in the defeat to Brazil section were reassuring, though much 45th minute when Rory Fallon’s bullet in Seville. Few of closer than during the 1982 campaign. header from a Leo Bertos corner sent the those celebrating Narrow away wins over Fiji, Vanuatu and stadium into a frenzy. the team’s arrival New Caledonia were enough to see the All Remembered as the “hard man” of on football’s Whites secure fi rst place with a game to New Zealand football, Kevin Fallon’s voice biggest stage would spare before a youthful and inexperienced waivers when he recalls the moment Rory have guessed that domestic-based line-up ended the regional Fallon’s goal fused father and son across it would be almost part of the campaign with a 2-0 defeat by 28 years of football history and lifted an three decades before Fiji in November 2008. entire country out of their seats. “That goal the All Whites would Almost a year later came the decisive brought everybody together – the team make their return. play-off against Bahrain, whose fi fth- of 1982 and 2010, the fans, the history place fi nish in Asian qualifying had already of our game – it lifted the crowd, the city Tough times surprised many. The tie, played over two and the whole nation. It was just pure joy In fact, the post-1982 Oceania football legs in Manama and Wellington, turned out and elation,” Fallon said. landscape was to prove a much-changed to be a close-run encounter. Playing fi rst in Perhaps the fi nal word should lie with place and somewhat bleak by comparison the Bahraini capital, New Zealand managed Frank van Hattum. As goalkeeper of the to those heady days in Spain. Australia an encouraging 0-0 draw but could easily 1982 team and now the President of New asserted their dominance in Oceania have lost when Bahrain’s Salman Isa Zealand Football, he prefers not to compare thereafter and the fortunes of the All rounded goalkeeper Mark Paston before the two squads – but instead takes pride in Whites plummeted. The New Zealand hitting the post with Jaycee John calling the fact that his nation is getting a second National League collapsed in 1993 while for the ball in front of an open goal. bite at world football’s biggest apple. rival sports codes forged ahead, most With New Zealand now just one win “The whole country will always notably with the professionalisation of away from qualifi cation, the country’s remember the 1982 campaign vividly,” rugby union. Football remained popular, media went into overdrive. Football was Van Hattum told FIFA World. “But the but mainly as a participation sport amongst front and back page news and reached a experience of watching the Bahrain game youth. The idea of ever qualifying for the saturation level on television not seen since was also very emotional. Since 1982, I have FIFA World Cup again with a squad of local 1982. Tickets went quickly and a 35,194 desperately wanted another New Zealand players seemed highly improbable and the sell-out crowd broke the attendance record team to experience what we did. This is all euphoria of 1982 slowly dissipated. for a football match in New Zealand. Even about the future now.”

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 125 GROUP G – BRAZIL

Johannesburg jubilation: Lúcio celebrates his tournament-winning goal at last year’s FIFA Confederations Cup fi nal.

For some countries, simply qualifying Dunga has sometimes faced criticism for Above all this phenomenal talent, for the FIFA World Cup™ is a triumph. appearing to put the need for results above though, there is a certain attacking For others, such as England, Germany or the need for beautiful football. But even as midfi elder, born with the name Ricardo Argentina, it is expected, and when the a slightly more defence-orientated team, Izecson dos Santos Leite, and now simply teams fail to qualify, there is an outcry. with a devastating line in counter-attack, known as Kaká. It is surely no coincidence And then there is Brazil. How disappointed Brazil are hardly “winning ugly” – and that Brazil’s darkest moments in qualifying would their fans be by non-qualifi cation? the “purists” often forget that Brazil have – including two goalless draws at home Nobody knows – because it has never always produced fantastic defenders, along and an away defeat against Paraguay – happened. with their headline-grabbing strikers and came when the 2007 FIFA World Player They have always been present, with playmakers. was out injured. It would be preposterous the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ marking to label any Brazil side as a one-man team, Brazil’s 19th consecutive appearance at Galaxy of stars but certainly their chances of a sixth title the fi nals. They are also of course fi ve-time Where to start with the current squad, look even more likely when Kaká is fi t and tournament winners, with an unparalleled which again reads like a Who’s Who of fi ring on all cylinders. overall record of 64 wins, 14 draws and football? In goal is Inter’s 30-year-old It has been 44 years since Brazil failed to 14 defeats. stopper Julio Cesar, one of the world’s progress beyond the fi rst phase, suffering a Statistics only tell part of the story, best keepers. At right back there is Cesar’s 3-1 defeat in 1966 to Portugal, one of the however. Brazil are admired throughout club-mate Maicon, and, further up the teams who they will again line up against the world for the breathtaking style in pitch, striker Robinho and Sevilla hitman in 2010. Add in Côte d’Ivoire and this year’s which they like to play “the beautiful Luis Fabiano (top scorer in the qualifi ers, group does look tougher than average. But game”. It is true that current head coach with nine goals). then, Brazil are clearly no average team.

126 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Star player: Kaká Coach Firmly established as one of the fi nest players in the world, Ricardo Izecson dos Santos A highly feared Leite (or “Kaká” as he is much more commonly known) has a capacity to glide almost former defensive effortlessly past opponents, provide defence-splitting passes and score consistently midfielder for the from distance. Seleção, Dunga has Still aged just 28, the 2007 FIFA World Player of the Year already experienced is now preparing for his third FIFA World Cup™ campaign, Brazilian highs and though he played only a bit part in his country’s 2002 triumph. lows. Among the Despite playing for less than half an hour in that tournament, scapegoats for Kaká was already well known at home by then after rising a disappointing Italia ’90 campaign, he through the ranks of his boyhood club São Paulo, and was recovered to skipper his country to victory also already attracting attention from leading European clubs. four years later in the USA. Untested as It was AC Milan who eventually signed the young Brazilian a coach before being chosen by Brazil in in 2003, beginning a six-year love affair between the player August 2006, the no-nonsense trainer and the club’s supporters. Originally expected to spend has silenced his doubters with triumphs some time on the bench, or even out on loan, Kaká was promoted to the fi rst team at the 2007 Copa América, the FIFA due to a series of injuries within the squad and never looked back – scoring ten times Confederations Cup 2009 and with in 30 outings during his debut season to help fi re Milan to the Serie A title. It was the comfortable qualifi cation for the 2010 fi rst of many team and individual trophies that Kaká was to win during his time with FIFA World Cup™. Milan, including a staggering sweep in 2007 of the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, FIFA Club World Cup and the FIFA World Player award. In June last year, the Possible line-up player embarked on a new chapter in his club career, joining Real Madrid after Milan GK JULIO CESAR reluctantly gave way to the fi nancial muscle of the Spanish giants. D MAICON Although dogged by a string of niggling injuries over the past two seasons, Kaká D JUAN will now be targeting further success with his talented Brazilian team-mates. After D LUCIO a disappointing campaign in 2006, at least by their own high standards, the South D LUISAO Americans seemed back to their best last year when Kaká inspired them to glory at the MF FELIPE MELO FIFA Confederations Cup 2009 – in the process adding the adidas Golden Ball award MF ELANO to his bulging trophy cabinet. MF KAKA MF GILBERTO SILVA How they qualifi ed F LUIS FABIANO South American Group F ROBINHO

Brazil v. Home Away Group-stage opponents, Co l o m b i a 0 - 0 0 - 0 head-to-head record Ecuador 5-0 1-1 Peru 3-0 1-1 MP W D L GF GA Uruguay 2-1 0-4 POR 18 12 2 4 36 15 Paraguay 2-1 2-0 PRK 000000 A r g e n t i n a 0 - 0 1- 3 CIV 000000 Chile 4-2 0-3 Bolivia 0-0 2-1 Ve n e z u e l a 0 - 0 0 - 4

Rank Team MP W D L Points 1 Brazil 1897234 2 Chile 18 10 3 5 33 What they said 3 Paraguay 18 10 3 5 33 4 Argentina 1884628 “We have to learn to live with the favourites’ tag. We mustn’t let 5 Uruguay 1866624 it turn into something negative, as it has done in previous years.” 6 Ecuador 1865723 7 Colombia 1865723 Kaká, following the win over Argentina which clinched 8 Venezuela 1864822 qualifi cation 9 Bolivia 18 4 3 11 15 10 Peru 18341113

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 127 GROUP G – KOREA DPR

Korea DPR battled through two goalless draws with fellow qualifi ers and neighbours Korea Republic.

Korea DPR are making a long-overdue helped earn the Seleção das Quinas a 5-3 for Kawasaki Frontale in Japan. Of the return to the FIFA World Cup™ fi nals after win in one of the tournament’s greatest domestic-based players, Mun In-Guk, 31, an absence of more than four decades. comebacks. usually bosses the midfi eld, while Korea Nicknamed after a mythical horse, the While the rest of the world has moved on DPR would probably not have qualifi ed Chollima’s only previous fi nals appearance a great deal in the intervening 44 years, the without the superb saves of 23-year-old came in England in 1966, when they pulled isolated nature of the North Korean state Pyongyang City keeper Ri Myong-Guk. off a shock 1-0 victory over Italy to reach has ensured that the country’s footballers Coach Kim Jong-Hun has instilled the last eight. will again be arriving at sport’s most a strong sense of discipline, graft and In the quarter-fi nal at Goodison Park, globally scrutinised event as something teamwork, which has certainly made Korea they faced this year’s Group G opponents of an unknown package. DPR a diffi cult side to break down. The Portugal and amazingly (yet deservedly) Few of the Korea DPR players ply their coach favours a no-nonsense, defensive went 3-0 up after only 24 minutes. It was trade overseas, but exceptions include style and this will be tested to the maximum largely the brilliance of the legendary 27-year-old FC Rostov hitman Hong when Korea DPR come up against fi ve-time Portuguese Eusebio and his four-goal Yong-Jo and the pacy and powerful world champions Brazil in their opening haul that denied the North Koreans, and 26-year-old striker Jong Tae-Se, who plays game in Johannesburg on 15 June.

128 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Star player: Jong Tae-Se Coach The Asian media have long developed a habit of comparing a burgeoning starlet of their Coach Kim Jong- region to a world great whose playing style or facial features he resembles. However, Hun was only ten it seemed they had failed to fi nd anyone worthy of comparison with England talisman years old when the Wayne Rooney until the emergence of Kawasaki Frontale and Korea DPR striker Jong Chollima made Tae-Se. history at England Dubbed “North Korea’s Rooney” or 1966 and, 44 “The People’s Rooney”, the Japan-born years on, he was player’s rise to prominence was not the man who as meteoric as that of his Manchester guided them back to the pinnacle of United counterpart, who is one year his world football. Given his squad largely junior. Jong only turned professional consists of domestic-based players lacking when he joined J. League side Frontale in international experience, the strategist in 2006 at the age of 22, but despite favours a pragmatic and defensive this relatively late start, the robust approach based around discipline and forward was quick to make his mark, teamwork. scoring 12 goals in 24 games for his club in the 2007 season and forcing his Possible line-up way into Korea DPR’s national team. GK RI Myong Guk He enjoyed a memorable D NAM Song Chol international debut, striking four times D RI Kwang Chon to steer the side to a thumping 7-0 D RI Jun Il win over Mongolia during qualifying D PAK Chol Jin for the 2008 East Asian Football D CHA Jong Hyok Federation Championship, and has MF PAK Nam Chol since established himself as an essential MF AN Yong Hak component within the team. MF MUN In Guk Jong started 12 of Korea DPR’s 14 games in the fi nal stages of qualifying for the MF HONG Yong Jo 2010 FIFA World Cup™, often playing as the lone striker in coach Kim Jong-Hun’s F JONG Tae Se defence-orientated formation. The selfl essness required in this role has prevented him from building on his phenomenal scoring record, adding just one goal to his tally Group-stage opponents, during that period, but his contribution in piercing rivals’ defences to create chances head-to-head record for team-mates cannot be overstated. MP W D L GF GA On the back of his contributions for both club and country, Jong, who turned 26 in POR 100135 March, is hoping to move to a top European club, where he can make further progress. BRA 000000 And though so often likened to Rooney, Jong himself is particularly relishing the chance CIV 000000 to rub shoulders with Didier Drogba of Côte d’Ivoire, whose playing style the Korea DPR star believes his resembles more closely.

How they qualifi ed Asian Fourth Round, Group B

Korea DPR v. Home Away United Arab Emirates 2-0 1-2 What they said Korea Republic 1-1 1-0 “It was as a result of our hard work that we will return to the Iran 0-0 2-1 Saudi Arabia 1-0 0-0 World Cup, 44 years after we reached the last eight at England in 1966. We are likely to meet European teams once more at Rank Team MP W D L Points South Africa 2010 and I hope we can repeat the feats of our 1 Korea Rep. 844016 predecessors.” 2 Korea DPR833212 3 Saudi Arabia 833212 Kim Jong-Hun 4 Iran825111 5 UAE80171

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 129 GROUP G – CÔTE D’IVOIRE

Drogba and co. celebrate a 3-1 win at January’s Africa Cup of Nations over fellow 2010 FIFA World Cup™ participants Ghana.

Côte d’Ivoire breezed through their have often seemed on the brink of greatness over in March from Bosnian trainer Vahid qualifying campaign for the 2010 FIFA since winning their fi rst major tournament Halilhodžić who was jettisoned following World Cup™ undefeated with eight wins at the Africa Cup of Nations in 1992, but Côte d’Ivoire’s quarter-fi nal defeat at the from 12 games, scoring 29 goals and have since struggled for consistency. 2010 Africa Cup of Nations. conceding just six in the process. They were Where Brazil have Kaká and Portugal immediately tipped as one of the leading Four years wiser have Cristiano Ronaldo, the Elephants African contenders, although the tough In Germany four years ago, the team have Didier Drogba, the powerful, talented nature of Group G will have dampened suffered fi rst-round elimination but only and inspirational striker who fi nished as those expectations at least a little. after some creditable performances in top scorer in qualifying with six goals in If the group matches go according to yet another tough group – losing by a fi ve appearances. Drogba is not alone, most of the pre-tournament predictions single goal each time to Argentina and the though, with Olympique Marseille’s Bakary – which is of course by no means certain Netherlands before mounting a spirited Koné providing additional fi repower and – Brazil should take top spot while Korea fi ght-back from two goals down to beat Drogba’s Chelsea club-mate Salomon DPR struggle. If so, the Elephants of Côte Serbia and Montenegro 3-2. Kalou always a threat on the wing. With d’Ivoire would fi nd themselves playing Since the latest qualifying campaign, the likes of Arthur Boka, Kolo Touré and a key match against Portugal in Nelson additional World Cup experience has Emmanuel Eboué providing further star Mandela Bay/Port Elizabeth on 15 June. been brought in with the acquisition of quality at the back, Côte d’Ivoire fi nally look A fi rst-ever appearance in the knock-out Sven-Göran Eriksson as head coach. The ready to carry the hopes of a continent as stages is the target for an Ivorian side who former England and Mexico manager took the FIFA World Cup fi nally arrives in Africa.

130 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Star player: Didier Drogba Coach There was nothing in Didier Drogba’s past that suggested he would become the global Côte d’Ivoire can rely star he is today. Initially the Ivorian encountered one obstacle after another, preventing on the experience his rise to the top level. After several years with second-division clubs, his fame really of Sven-Göran began to grow at the French club Olympique de Marseille. Eriksson, even if As a heroic goalscorer in both the Champions League and then the UEFA Cup (11 he has only had goals in total), right through to the fi nal, losing to Valencia in May 2004, Drogba set the three months to Vélodrome Stadium alight in Ligue 1 (18 goals) and became a living god in Marseille. The prepare for the following summer, the club agreed to sell its star to Chelsea where it took him a season tournament. The to generate the same levels of admiration and respect. He even became something of Swedish coach can, for his part, rely on his a spiritual son for Portuguese manager José Mourinho. experience as manager of England and also His physique, outstanding heading Mexico. In his long career as club coach, he skills and technical ability have wreaked managed Benfi ca and Lazio before taking havoc in the Premier League. Drogba over as England manager from 2001 to has broken all sorts of records, 2006 and leading them to two World Cup collecting titles for the Blues that quarter-fi nals (2002 and 2006). included three League titles, three FA Cups and a place in the fi nal of the Possible line-up Champions League in 2008, losing to GK Boubacar BARRY Manchester United. The Ivorian has D Emmanuel EBOUE had yet another phenomenal season D Arthur BOKA in 2009-10. D Kolo TOURE Drogba earned his fi rst cap with the D Souleymane BAMBA national side in 2002 and as captain MF Didier ZOKORA became the country’s fi rst-ever scorer MF Emmers FAE in a FIFA World Cup™. Born in Abidjan, MF Yaya TOURE he is the uncontested icon and leader MF Salomon KALOU of the national squad. F Bakary KONE Frustrated by losses in the Africa F Didier DROGBA Cup of Nations in 2006 (fi nal), 2008 (semi-fi nals) and 2010 (quarter-fi nals), Group-stage opponents, he nonetheless remains optimistic and ambitious for the 2010 FIFA World CupTM. “We’re head-to-head record not just representing the people of Côte d’Ivoire; we represent millions of Africans. And MP W D L GF GA we’re not going there to make up the numbers,” confi rms the captain of The Elephants, POR 000000 adding: “We’re going there to win”. BRA 000000 PRK 000000

How they qualifi ed African Third Round, Group E What they said Côte d’Ivoire v. Home Away Malawi 5-0 1-1 “At the last World Cup we played very well, but we were unlucky Guinea 3-0 1-2 because we were in a very tough group with Argentina and Burkina Faso 5-0 2-3 Holland. But I think with this kind of experience we will do much better in South Africa. Perhaps we can make the quarter-fi nals Rank Team MP W D L Points and then the semi-fi nals; this is something we can achieve.” 1 Côte d’Ivoire651016 2 Burkina Faso640212 Didier Drogba 3 Malawi61144 4 Guinea 61053

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 131 GROUP G – PORTUGAL

Bruno Alves (left) is embraced by Raúl Meireles after scoring in the fi rst leg of Portugal’s 2-0 aggregate play-off win over Bosnia-Herzegovina.

Semi-fi nalists at the 2006 FIFA World 2008 FIFA World Player of the Year Cristiano historical interest in Portugal’s next two Cup™ and runners-up on home soil at Ronaldo, who was out injured at the time. matches, fi rst against Korea DPR and then EURO 2004, Portugal have once again Remarkably, Ronaldo failed to fi nd the net against Brazil, with whom of course the established themselves as one of Europe’s in any of his seven qualifying appearances, Portuguese – and several of their players most feared teams. Carlos Queiroz’s men leaving Atlético Madrid winger Simão to – share close historical and cultural ties. were not always at their sharpest during take top honours with four goals in ten Although trailing the Brazilians 12-4 in the latest qualifying campaign, however, games. Porto centre-back Bruno Alves victories from their previous meetings, and will need to rediscover their swagger and hard-working midfi elder Raul Meireles the only World Cup encounter between if they are to come through a 2010 FIFA provided the vital play-off goals, further the two ended 3-1 in Portugal’s favour World CupTM group which many believe to testifying to Portugal’s growing strength and spelt a shock early end to the South be the toughest of the tournament. in depth. Americans’ 1966 FIFA World Cup™ After unexpectedly struggling to fi nish campaign. second in their qualifying group behind African opener Korea DPR have fond memories of 1966 Denmark, Portugal needed to scrap through Certainly they will need to be at their best as well though, having led Portugal 3-0 a two-legged play-off against Bosnia- from the very start in South Africa, as they in that year’s quarter-fi nals before the Herzegovina (winning each leg 1-0) to fi nally prepare for an opening game against Côte Europeans staged a remarkable comeback make sure of their place in South Africa. d’Ivoire which could set the tone for the to win 5-3. Portugal’s fans would no Nevertheless, they came through that rest of their tournament. doubt settle for the same result this time play-off, and the three straight victories As if Group G needed any extra around, but perhaps in a less nerve- that preceded it, without star player and spice, there will be plenty of social and jangling fashion.

132 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Star player: Cristiano Ronaldo Coach With a ball at his feet, Cristiano Ronaldo left the island of Madeira to conquer the world, Carlos Queiroz is and went on to become one of the most extraordinary players of recent years. He fi rst credited as the began to shine at a small club called Andorinha, where his father worked, and he never mastermind behind stopped surprising people, even when the ball forced him to make diffi cult choices. Portugal’s “Golden It was while playing for Nacional in Madeira that he received the invitation from Generation” of Sporting to join their youth academy. footballers, having Cristiano Ronaldo got the chance to play for Sporting’s fi rst team at the age of 17, notched up back- and from his very fi rst match he showed what he was made of and what he could go to-back victories in on to become, scoring two goals and thrilling Sporting fans, although they only got to the 1989 and 1991 FIFA U-20 World Cups watch him play in the green and white shirt for with players like Luís Figo and Rui Costa. one full season. At the beginning of the 2003-04 After EURO 2008, he took over from Luiz season, Manchester United were invited to the Felipe Scolari as manager of the Portuguese inauguration of the new Estádio de Alvalade, national side, a position he had already where for the fi rst time the Red Devils got to held without success between 1991 and see this 18-year-old youngster who was able to 1993. He will no doubt be looking to repeat do incredible things with his best friend, the ball. former glories in South Africa. Sir Alex Ferguson wasted no time, and Cristiano Ronaldo was soon on his way to Manchester, Possible line-up where the coach handed him the legendary GK EDUARDO no. 7 shirt, previously worn by such greats as D MIGUEL George Best, Bryan Robson, Eric Cantona and D Paulo FERREIRA David Beckham. D Bruno ALVES Cristiano Ronaldo, the global star, was born. D RICARDO CARVALHO The player who would go on to conquer the world MF DUDA of football, and more, started to amass awards, MF DECO including FIFA World Player of the Year in 2008. MF SIMAO He also almost succeeded in fi lling the Santiago Bernabéu stadium single-handedly MF RAUL MEIRELES when he was presented at Real Madrid. F LIEDSON But Cristiano Ronaldo wants more. Following the disappointment of the UEFA EURO F CRISTIANO RONALDO 2004 fi nal, which Portugal lost to Greece, when the image of him crying at the end of the match went round the world, the forward is now setting his sights on the dream Group-stage opponents, shared by so many: winning the FIFA World Cup™. head-to-head record MP W D L GF GA BRA 18 4 2 12 15 36 PRK 110053 How they qualifi ed CIV 000000 European Group 1 / Play-off*

Portugal v. Home Away Malta 4-0 0-4 Denmark 2-3 1-1 Sweden 0-0 0-0 Albania 0-0 1-2 Hungary 3-0 0-1 Bosnia* 1-0 0-1 What they said

Rank Team MP W D L Points “Portugal are candidates for the trophy. We have great players 1 Denmark1063121 and we made a statement with great pedigree and determination. 2 Portugal 1054119 This is a unique moment.” 3 Sweden 1053218 4 Hungary 1051416 Liédson, Portugal player 5 Albania 101457 6 Malta 100191

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 133 THE MYSTERY MEN

Korea DPR players take to the fi eld at Pyongyang’s Kim Il-sung stadium ahead of a 2007 Olympic qualifying match against Iraq.

By Michael Church, Hong Kong

Few national teams will have shown up for In fact, the last time a team arrived at the group stage. Although media access a FIFA World Cup™ fi nals as unknown to a FIFA World Cup with so little known is strictly controlled in Korea DPR, the the general public as the current Korea DPR about them was perhaps when Korea average fan on the streets of Pyongyang squad. In a time when an abundance of DPR qualifi ed for their only previous or beyond will be under no illusions about information is little more than a mouse click fi nals, famously going on to reach the their team’s prospects. away, the footballers of the hermetically quarter-fi nals in England in 1966. The “They’re not fanatical about the sport sealed state retain an air of mystery more performances of Pak Doo-ik (who scored – it’s not Brazil – but football is the most in keeping with the tournaments of the the winning goal in the shock 1-0 defeat popular sport in the country,” says Simon distant past. of Italy) and his team-mates stood as Cockerell of the Koryo Group, a company The age of satellite television and the the fi nest ever by an Asian nation until that specialises in tours to North Korea internet has made the likes of Kaká, their neighbours from Korea Republic and has arranged football exchange visits Cristiano Ronaldo and Didier Drogba surpassed them with their run to the to the country. “They’re not so isolated household names all over the world. But semi-fi nals of the 2002 FIFA World Cup™. that they don’t know that both Brazil and when that illustrious trio takes to the But while the North Koreans are Portugal are very good teams. They might fi eld for their respective nations of Brazil, returning to world football’s biggest event not know very much about Côte d’Ivoire, Portugal and Cõte d’Ivoire against the as something of an unknown quantity, but the other two are well enough known. North Koreans, they will be meeting a they and their supporters will know plenty “It’s not like it was in China when they team that has very little profi le at all. about the teams they are due to face in qualifi ed for the World Cup in 2002.

134 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 People there were plotting a course to elimination tournament, only to miss out for the FIFA U-20 World Cup. Several of the quarter-fi nals because they didn’t on a place in Germany to Japan and Iran. these players, including Pak Chol-min and know anything about the sport outside But while the country was apparently Ju Kwang-min, have since graduated to of China. In North Korea they know it’s off the international football scene, plenty the full national team and were among going to be tough; they’re not under any of work was being done behind the the candidates for South Africa. illusions.” scenes to ensure that Korea DPR would The results on the women’s side have re-emerge as a force within the Asian been even more impressive, with the Working in exile realm. women’s national team having already Korea DPR’s qualifi cation for the fi nals “After the qualifying tournament for won their country’s fi rst world title – at was a major surprise, coming as it did so the 1994 World Cup, everyone in North the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Russia soon after a self-imposed exile from the Korea was thinking that the national team 2006 – along with recent AFC Asian international scene. North Korean clubs do wasn’t good enough,” says Mun Sisong, Women’s Cup victories in 2001, 2003 not play in Asian continental competitions, a former general secretary of the DPRK and 2008. and the national team only sporadically Football Association who currently works “The success that we have had has featured in international events after their for the Asian Football Confederation. come because of our determination to failed attempt to qualify for the 1994 “The team was old and we were thinking work hard and try hard,” says Mun. World Cup fi nals in the United States. about putting more emphasis on youth “There has been a lot of support from The nation did not enter the qualifying development. I met some of the FIFA the government but there have been a lot competition for the 1998 fi nals in France people at that World Cup and they helped of other factors in the team’s success as due to the observation of a three-year us organise some courses, funded by well. The climatic conditions in my country mourning period following the death the National Olympic Committee, which are harsh and we don’t have heating of Kim Il-sung – the founding father of allowed us to develop a system to educate systems for our pitches, so we had to the country – while political concerns and teach football coaches.” install an artifi cial pitch and we were able prevented them seeking a place in the Those moves started to bear fruit by to do that thanks to the FIFA Goal project, fi nals in 2002, which was co-hosted by the middle of the last decade, when which has allowed us to be more involved Korea Republic and Japan. North Korea’s under-17 team fi nished in the game throughout the year and in As a result, the North Koreans only as runners-up to China in the Asian international tournaments.” made a serious return to the international championship and qualifi ed for the FIFA fray in the qualifying competition for U-17 World Cup. A squad featuring many Home support the 2006 World Cup finals, when of the same players then captured the A fi lm crew is expected to be among they reached the fi nal phase of Asia’s Asian U-20 title in India in 2006 to qualify the delegation the North Koreans send to South Africa, but the chances of a travelling army of fans from the country are slim at best. That is not to say, however, that Kim Jong-Hun and his boys will not have support in the stadium. With a large North Korean community in several African countries as well as those in Japan and China – some of whom are likely to travel – the sight of the nation’s distinctive red, white and blue fl ag is highly likely. And, like any nation that has managed to end such a long wait for such an accomplishment, the North Koreans are intensely proud that their team will be mixing it with the very best in June. “It’s a real success to qualify and that success is being felt by all of the people,” says a beaming Mun. “For all of us involved in the sport, this success The North Koreans celebrate in 1966 after stunning Italy 1-0. is so exciting.”

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 135 GROUP H – SPAIN

Spanish fans will be hoping to see Torres and Villa resume the partnership that proved so successful at Euro 2008.

The amount of media attention lavished reputation for choking at the big events certainly does not suggest a team upon Fernando Torres’s late-season knee when they romped to victory at EURO that is resting on its laurels. David Villa injury probably says more about Spanish 2008. They then followed that up with was particularly prolifi c – providing a nerves at being hot favourites for the 2010 a phenomenal World Cup qualifying quarter of the goals scored. His former FIFA World Cup™ than it does about any campaign which saw them win all ten Valencia club-mates David Silva and Juan particular dependence of the team upon matches to fi nish 11 points clear of their Manuel Mata, and Barcelona centre- the Liverpool striker. nearest rivals. By the time the campaign back Gerard Piqué each grabbed three. Of course no team would be happy to fi nished, they had also lost just one match Interestingly given the fuss surrounding lose a goalscorer of Torres’s quality, but if in a 41-game run spanning more than his injury, Torres failed to score in seven the injury does indeed hamper his chances three years. international run-outs. of playing a starring role in South Africa, Few nations have squads with talent Spain more than almost any other team No complacency that can come anywhere near the at the tournament would surely still cope That solitary defeat came in a shock setback current Spain side. With world-beaters without him. against the USA in the semi-fi nals of last in every position, Spain’s sheer strength In truth, it would probably take several year’s FIFA Confederations Cup. All but the is perhaps best displayed by the players such knee injuries to Spain’s most regular most pessimistic of Spain fans will surely who frequently have to sit it out on the starters for the European champions to write that off as a rare blip – an exception bench. To put it another way, Spain are be regarded as anything other than major to the rule which may even strengthen right now the benchmark for all their contenders for the title – so emphatic Spain’s chances by warning the players international rivals. If any team does have been their recent results and so against complacency. manage to eliminate Spain, expect that dazzling the manner in which they have Their qualifying campaign record of team to be instantly installed as the new achieved them. Spain discarded their 28 goals for and a mere fi ve against tournament favourites.

136 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Star player: David Villa Coach The late doubts surrounding the readiness of prolifi c goal-getter Fernando Torres have Vicente del Bosque only served to place even greater expectations on his strike partner and new Barcelona took over from Luis signing David Villa as hot favourites Spain prepare for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™. Aragonés after EURO The top scorer from EURO 2008 is one of the cornerstones of the Spanish attack 2008, but kept the and one of the most coveted strikers on the international scene. A tireless fi ghter who same footballing lives for goals, Villa is an explosive, fast and hard worker who never hesitates to move philosophy that out of his area to help out his team-mates. had secured that The 28-year-old, who started his footballing career with Sporting Gijón, reached triumph. The sporting maturity with Real Zaragoza, where he played between 2003 and 2005. experienced supremo has also hit the Valencia parted with a major sum to secure his services, but they were not to regret it: heights at club level with Real Madrid, Villa was just one goal away from being winning two UEFA Champions Leagues top scorer in his debut season, but had (2000, 2002), two La Ligas (2001, 2003), to content himself with being the best a Spanish Super Cup (2001) a UEFA Spanish scorer, an achievement he has European Super Cup (2002) and the Toyota matched twice to date. Intercontinental Cup (2002). During Del The Asturian made his debut for Bosque’s era, Spain have had an almost Spain in 2005 in a qualifi er for the perfect record. 2006 FIFA World Cup Germany™, and his international career could not Possible line-up have got off to a better start, as he GK Iker CASILLAS scored twice against Ukraine. Despite D Carles PUYOL Spain’s early exit in the round of 16 D Joan CAPDEVILA against France, Villa had made a mark D SERGIO RAMOS on the international scene. Since then, D Carlos MARCHENA he has not missed a match with the MF XAVI national team, and has a tally of 36 MF DAVID SILVA goals, making him Spain’s second MF XABI ALONSO most prolifi c goalscorer ever… and MF Andres INIESTA within striking distance of the top spot, MF Cesc FABREGAS currently held by Raúl. F David VILLA Despite his achievements, Villa always plays down his accomplishments and he attributes his personal successes to the support of his team-mates. He is raring to go Group-stage opponents, for South Africa 2010, where he will be hoping to make amends for Germany 2006. head-to-head record MP W D L GF GA CHI 7610183 HON101011 How they qualifi ed SUI 18 15 3 0 45 15 European Group 5

Spain v. Home Away Bosnia 1-0 2-5 Armenia 4-0 1-2 Estonia 3-0 0-3 Belgium 5-0 1-2 What they said Turkey 1-0 1-2 “We’ve got good players and a well-oiled team, but there are

Rank Team MP W D L Points some very strong sides out there. Our aim is to challenge for 1 Spain 10 10 0 0 30 the World Cup but we know how diffi cult it is. We’re not the 2Bosnia1061319 favourites but we are among the hopefuls.” 3Turkey1043315 4Belgium1031610 Vicente del Bosque 5Estonia102268 6Armenia101184

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 137 GROUP H – SWITZERLAND

Defender Stéphane Grichting celebrates after scoring his fi rst international goal during Switzerland’s vital 2-0 win over qualifying group rivals Greece.

Switzerland will be contesting their ninth team ever to miss all of their penalties in put the campaign back on track. A 3-0 FIFA World Cup™ fi nals in South Africa, a World Cup shoot-out. romp in Luxembourg went some way but their greatest days in the tournament Two years ago, they co-hosted EURO towards obliterating the memories of – three quarter-fi nal appearances – took 2008 with their Austrian neighbours the earlier defeat and left Hitzfeld able place in the distant times of 1934, 1938 but were the fi rst side to be eliminated to concentrate on his team’s plans for and on home soil in 1954. from the competition, a few days South Africa. The current crop of Swiss stars has been ahead of the Austrians who had gone Despite boasting more strength in depth talked up as being one of the most talented into the tournament with much lower than previous Swiss squads, as well as a ever, but there is a feeling that they must expectations. larger number of players based at top- now produce the goods after ultimately level European clubs, Switzerland have disappointing in their two most recent Luxembourg low point often proven too reliant on stars such as tournaments. Under the leadership of highly successful Bayer Leverkusen midfi elder Tranquillo First was the 2006 FIFA World CupTM club coach Ottmar Hitzfeld, the Swiss Barnetta and their captain and all-time in Germany, where the Swiss began then suffered one of their country’s record goalscorer Alex Frei. It was Frei’s strongly, holding the French to an opening biggest embarrassments to date when injury in the opening game of EURO 2008 draw and then progressing from the tiny Luxembourg infl icted a 2-1 defeat on which was seen as the main reason for group stage with wins over Togo and them in Zurich near the start of the 2010 the team’s subsequent exit. Now aged Korea Republic. Switzerland then made FIFA World Cup™ qualifying campaign to 30, Frei has again been fighting for footballing history, but of a kind they deal a major blow to Swiss hopes. fi tness after breaking his arm in February. would rather forget, when a goalless Perhaps bad luck really does come in With European champions Spain, the draw with Ukraine ended in a 3-0 penalty threes, because Switzerland have rallied young, talented Chileans and the hungry shoot-out defeat. The Swiss had exited impressively since then. A run of fi ve Hondurans in their group, Swiss fans will the tournament without conceding a straight wins, including home and away surely be feeling that they are fi nally due single goal and also became the fi rst victories over main rivals Greece, helped a lucky break.

138 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Star player: Tranquillo Barnetta Coach Tranquillo Barnetta is one of the aces in coach Ottmar Hitzfeld’s pack. The 25-year-old Ottmar Hitzfeld is started all ten of Switzerland’s World Cup qualifying matches and played a decisive one of Europe’s most part in ensuring that Switzerland would make it onto football’s biggest stage for the successful coaches. second time running. He is one of only two Barnetta is renowned above all for his technical ability and tenacity, qualities which coaches to win the make the St Gallen born star ideal for the left-wing position in which he is most often UEFA Champions used by Hitzfeld. League with two The popular winger has also gained a wealth of experience of playing in Germany’s different clubs Bundesliga since being snapped up by Bayer Leverkusen in 2004. He has since made (Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich). a name for himself in Germany’s He was appointed coach of the Swiss team top-fl ight with his goal threat from on 1 July 2008 and despite some shaky midfi eld and become a mainstay of results at the outset, he led his team to the Leverkusen side. direct qualifi cation for the World Cup In Switzerland, Barnetta has fi nals. long been regarded as one of the country’s top talents. He turned out Possible line-up for all of Switzerland’s under-age GK Diego BENAGLIO teams, winning the U-17 European D Stephane GRICHTING Championship in 2002 and taking part D Stephan LICHTSTEINER in the U-21 European Championship D Philippe SENDEROS in 2004. He made his debut for the D Ludovic MAGNIN senior team in a World Cup qualifying MF Tranquillo BARNETTA match against the Republic of Ireland MF Gokhan INLER on 8 September 2004, and scored his MF Benjamin HUGGEL fi rst goal for his country in a 3-1 victory MF Hakan YAKIN over Scotland on 1 March 2006. F Blaise NKUFO In terms of his team’s chances at the F Alexander FREI forthcoming 2010 FIFA World Cup™ in South Africa, the player on whom Group-stage opponents, many of the Swiss fans are pinning head-to-head record their hopes prefers to take one step at a time. “It’s an honour to be able to pit yourself MP W D L GF GA against the best in the world. It will be important for us to prepare for the tournament CHI 320176 properly and make sure that we’re absolutely focused on those three games. Our goal ESP 18 0 3 15 15 45 has to be to survive the group stage. It’s a big challenge, but that’s the aim. We’re not HON000000 thinking any further than that at the moment,” he says of his team’s ambitions.

How they qualifi ed European Group 2

Switzerland v. Home Away Israel 0-0 2-2 Luxembourg 1-2 0-3 Latvia 2-1 2-2 Greece 2-0 1-2 Moldova 2-0 0-2 What they said

Rank Team MP W D L Points “If my father had known I’d be this successful as Switzerland 1 Switzerland1063121 coach – not as Bayern or Dortmund coach – he’d have been 2 Greece1062220 overjoyed. It’s the place we call home, you see.” 3 Latvia1052317 4 Israel1044216 Ottmar Hitzfeld 5 Luxembourg101275 6 Moldova100373

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 139 GROUP H – HONDURAS

Honduras will be looking to exceed expectations once again in 2010.

Honduras were the surprise package to This year’s tournament will mark only the qualifying played a major part in his emerge from the North, Central American second-ever appearance by a Honduran side country’s successful run. Midfi elder and and Caribbean section of qualifying for the at world football’s biggest event, following team captain Amado Guevara – the most- 2010 FIFA World Cup™, eventually fi lling on from their 1982 debut in Spain. On that capped Honduran of all time – will also play the third automatic qualifying berth behind occasion, under coach José de la Paz, the a key role as a proven motivator for his side. regional superpowers the USA and Mexico. central Americans stunned the world by Inter striker David Suazo, who has No less surprising was the identity of drawing 1-1 with the star-studded hosts, impressed during loans at Benfi ca and the player who secured Honduras their before repeating the feat against Northern Genoa, will be expected to improve on ticket to South Africa. Going into their Ireland. A 1-0 defeat by Yugoslavia then some inconsistent performances for the fi nal match in El Salvador, Los Catrachos put paid to dream of a place in the last 16. national team, while Tottenham midfi elder needed not only to win their own game Wilson Palacios has also been in good form but also rivals Costa Rica not to win their First win? in the English Premier League. last match in the USA. Completing their Now, under the leadership of coach For a team currently punching well own side of things with a 1-0 victory, the Reinaldo Rueda, Honduras will be aiming to above their usual weight, Honduras could Hondurans discovered that Costa Rica were improve on that already impressive history, have done with a kinder draw. Their will also leading by the same score, until news and perhaps snatch their fi rst-ever win at to succeed is immense, but, in a group came through of an injury-time equaliser in a World Cup fi nals. containing the European champions Spain, Washington. A late strike by US defender The side’s undoubted hero and talisman South American qualifying runners-up Jonathan Bornstein had handed Honduras is the much-travelled 36-year-old striker Chile and the experienced and disciplined an unlikely FIFA World Cup™ spot. Carlos Pavón, whose seven goals in Swiss, so too is the challenge.

140 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Star player: Wilson Palacios Coach In the space of just a few years, Wilson Palacios has gone from being a promising For Honduras, player in the Honduran league to one of the key players in the national team that will qualifying phases be competing in the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™. The 26-year-old midfi elder for the FIFA World is currently at the peak of his career, as he has shown with fantastic performances Cup had become for his national team and his club, Tottenham Hotspur, in the English Premier League. something of Wilson started out with Honduran club Olimpia, where he stood out from the beginning a recurring on account of his fi ghting spirit and iron discipline, which quickly made him one of nightmare. Always the favourites among the fans and resulted in an early call-up to the national team. among the pre- Palacios’s great performances for his club began to attract attention, and a number of event favourites, La Bicolor invariably European clubs offered him trials. contrived to fall short at key moments It was with Wigan that the – that is until the arrival of Colombian midfi elder really came into his strategist Reinaldo Rueda in early 2007. own. He became one of the Rueda repaid the faith placed in him by key players on the team and guiding Honduras to South Africa 2010 earned the affection of the on the back of sparkling attacking football fans. His performances did and a solid backline. not go unnoticed, and he very soon came to be considered Possible line-up one of the best players in GK Noel VALLADARES the Premier League in his D Victor BERNARDEZ position. It therefore came as D Emilio IZAGUIRRE no surprise when Tottenham D Maynor FIGUEROA Hotspur signed him for GBP D Osman CHAVEZ 12 million. At his new club, MF Amado GUEVARA Palacios has not eased up, and MF Wilson PALACIOS he is a favourite of coach Harry MF Julio Cesar DE LEON Redknapp and the Spurs fans. MF Danilo TURCIOS With the national team, F David SUAZO he was one of the linchpins F Carlos PAVON of Honduras’ extraordinary qualifying campaign for South Africa, with Reinaldo Rueda at the helm. Palacios played Group-stage opponents, a fundamental role in Honduras’ historic qualifi cation for their second-ever FIFA World head-to-head record Cup™. As a result, Honduras will be going into world football’s fl agship event in June MP W D L GF GA confi dent of being the competition’s surprise package. CHI 52031011 ESP 101011 SUI 000000 How they qualifi ed CONCACAF Fourth Round

Honduras v. Home Away Costa Rica 4-0 2-0 Trinidad & Tobago 4-1 1-1 Mexico 3-1 1-0 What they said USA 2-3 2-1 El Salvador 1-0 0-1 “Nobody could believe it. Our game ended and we were all dejected, then we saw the row the fans were making and we

Rank Team MP W D L Points realised that the USA had equalised against Costa Rica. We’re 1 USA1062220 so happy to be going to South Africa and we’re not going to let 2 Mexico1061319 down all those people who believed in us.” 3 Honduras1051416 4 Costa Rica1051416 Carlos Pavón, Honduras forward 5 El Salvador102268 6 T & T101366

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 141 GROUP H – CHILE

Chile’s Marco Estrada takes to the air, followed by Alexis Sánchez, after scoring in his country’s 4-0 qualifying game win over Bolivia.

Seemingly reborn under Argentinian American teams who qualifi ed automatically back of the net ten times, to fi nish one coach Marcelo Bielsa, Chile were the for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™). ahead of Brazilian striker Luís Fabiano as surprise package in a competitive South This year’s tournament will mark Chile’s CONMEBOL’s top scorer in the competition. American group, securing a 4-2 win in eighth appearance in a FIFA World CupTM Attacking midfi elder Matías Fernández Colombia in October to seal their passage fi nals, starting with the very fi rst edition and winger/striker Alexis Sánchez provide to South Africa. They fi nished second in the in 1930. Their best showing was almost an additional threat up front while defensive group, one point behind the mighty Brazil, half a century ago, when as hosts they midfielder Gary Medel, experienced and ahead of Paraguay on goal difference. fi nished third. defender Pablo Contreras and the team’s Along the way they enjoyed a 1-0 win over goalkeeping captain Claudio Bravo will be Bielsa’s homeland – Chile’s fi rst-ever victory Unburdened on their toes, ready to deal with any of over Argentina in a competitive fi xture. La Roja (the Reds) failed to qualify for the the counter-attacks that Bielsa’s brand of The team won ten of their 18 qualifying 2002 and 2006 editions, but the fresh, football naturally invites. matches (a feat matched only by Paraguay) young squad assembled by Bielsa are As talented as they are, few expect and scored 32 goals along the way (just unlikely to feel burdened by the Chilean Chile to get much from their last group- one less than the Brazilians). But Bielsa’s performances of the past. stage match against reigning European emphasis on all-out attack can bring Real Zaragoza hitman Humberto champions Spain, but if they can handle problems at the back. The side also lost “Chupete” Suazo will be looking to Honduras and Switzerland, then a repeat fi ve of their matches and conceded 22 goals continue his awesome form in the of their second place in qualifying would (the highest number among the four South qualifying campaign, when he found the suit the South Americans just fi ne.

142 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Star player: Humberto Suazo Coach It is fair to say, without exaggeration, that any football fan who has not heard of Argentinian coach Humberto Suazo, at least in Latin America, has been living under a rock for the last few Marcelo Bielsa may years. Week by week, goal by goal, Chupete has been gaining a reputation for himself, well be remembered and his fame is thoroughly deserved, as he fi nished top scorer in the South American by football fans as preliminary competition for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™. the man in charge Although at 1.72m tall he does not have the typical of Argentina when physique of a goalscoring centre forward, Suazo has the gift they were knocked of being in the right place at the right time and the ability out in the group to score with both feet. In the beginning, he had a hard stage at the 2002 FIFA World Cup Korea/ time establishing himself. Since his debut with Ñublense in Japan™, but he has given himself a shot at 2000, he has plied his trade with very modest clubs, such redemption with Chile. Nicknamed El Loco, as Magallanes, San Antonio Unido and San Luis, where he he commands the respect of players, fellow was top scorer in the Chilean third division, before landing at coaches and reporters alike on account of Audax Italiano, which was a springboard to big-name clubs. his principles, dedication and hard work. It was after his arrival at Colo Colo that he really started to make a name for himself, scoring no fewer than 51 Possible line-up goals in 2006 – a record not matched by any other Chilean GK Claudio BRAVO footballer. Suazo won three top goalscorer awards while at Colo Colo, including for the D Arturo VIDAL 2006 Copa Sudamericana, before moving to Monterrey, where he earned his fourth in D Pablo CONTRERAS 2008 and was voted best player of the Mexican league in 2009. Since January 2010, D Roberto CERECEDA he has been playing for Real Zaragoza. D Gonzalo JARA Suazo, who made his debut for the senior national team under the leadership of MF Matias FERNANDEZ Juvenal Olmos in 2005 and was one of the key players in the 2007 Copa América, is MF Carlos CARMONA one of the fi rst names on Marcelo Bielsa’s teamsheet, where he is reproducing the MF Manuel ITURRA entertaining football he played at Colo Colo together with Matías Fernández, Alexis MF Mark GONZALEZ Sánchez, Jorge Valdivia and Arturo Vidal, who are also regulars for Chile. A good F Humberto SUAZO performance at South Africa 2010 would earn him a place among the great South F Alexis SANCHEZ American strikers of all time. Group-stage opponents, How they qualifi ed head-to-head record South American Group MP W D L GF GA HON53021110 Chile v. Home Away ESP 7016318 Argentina 1-0 2-0 SUI 310267 Peru 2-0 1-3 Uruguay 0-0 2-2 Paraguay 0-3 0-2 Bolivia 4-0 0-2 Venezuela 2-2 2-3 Brazil 0-3 0-3 Colombia 4-0 2-4 What they said Ecuador 1-0 1-0 “I’m not looking at this as a chance to get revenge for what happened to me in 2002. Nothing I can ever achieve in the future Rank Team MP W D L Points will make that sadness go away. The most important thing at a 1 Brazil1897234 World Cup is to make sure the players are in top form and that 2 Chile18103533 depends on so many different factors. Some of them you can 3 Paraguay18103533 4 Argentina1884628 control, but some are the result of everything the player has been 5 Uruguay1866624 through in the previous ten months. I hope everything comes 6 Ecuador1865723 together for Chile.” 7Colombia1865723 8 Venezuela1864822 Marcelo Bielsa 9 Bolivia18431115 10 Peru18341113

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 143 A WELCOME DISTRACTION

Honduran fans in Tegucigalpa dance around the US national fl ag after securing late qualifi cation, helped by the USA’s draw with Costa Rica.

By Ben Lyttleton

The qualifi cation of Honduras for only supporters of Zelaya and Micheletti began more than two weeks after El their second-ever FIFA World Cup™ fi nals celebrating together. The political stand- Salvador had beaten Honduras 3-2 in a coincided with another diffi cult period in off was forgotten, at least temporarily, and FIFA World Cup qualifi er in June 1969, and the often troubled history of this poor the country was united by its unbridled its underlying causes were in fact much central American country. passion for football. more to do with long-seated political Three months before the Honduras Parallels to the past were nevertheless differences between the two neighbours. national team secured their place in South unmistakable: Honduras had beaten El Kapuściński has himself since admitted Africa, a military coup had unseated the Salvador to earn their place in South that the match had no impact on the war country’s president Manuel Zelaya and Africa, the same country against whom and that he had only chosen that title to appointed Roberto Micheletti as his 40 years earlier they had waged a bloody improve sales. acting replacement. With tensions still battle that became known as “The Such sensationalism is typical of the running high weeks later, the World Cup Football War”, after Polish journalist misfortunes and misrepresentations that qualifi cation in October 2009 provided Ryszard Kapuściński’s book of the same have beset Honduras, and another reason a welcome distraction for the nation. name. why the country is so keen to present itself Thousands of fans spilled out onto the Kapuściński did Honduras a great in a new light following its qualifi cation streets of the capital city Tegucigalpa, disservice with that title. The war actually for world football’s biggest event.

144 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Providing hope – including striker David Suazo, record to suffer fi rst,” admitted the team’s star “After last year’s coup and the economic goalscorer Francisco Pavón, goalkeeper player, midfi elder Wilson Palacios, whose crisis, our country found happiness in Noel Valladares and midfi elder Julio de brother Edwin was tragically kidnapped football and forgot all its problems,” León – should all be in action in South and murdered in 2008. “There are many Mauricio Kawas, presenter of popular TV Africa. successful people who didn’t have to suffer show Todo Deportes, told FIFA World. “It but I am not one of them.” sounds poetic, but football is the provider Lost no more In their fi rst-ever FIFA World Cup of hope in this country.” The period between Honduras’s two FIFA appearance back in 1982, Honduras set Honduras is the second-poorest World Cup qualifi cations, and specifi cally out to frustrate their opponents, hosts country in Central America and 62 per from 1985 to 2000, is known as “The Lost Spain, but stunned them, and possibly cent of its 7.7 million inhabitants live Years”. José de la Paz Herrera, Honduras themselves, with a seventh-minute below the poverty line. Five of its major coach at the 1982 tournament and also opening goal from Héctor Zelaya. Spain provinces are at constant risk of fl ooding for the next two qualifying campaigns, dominated the rest of the match and believes it was not a lack of talent which scored from a second-half penalty, but “It sounds poetic, but held back the country. Honduras held on for a famous draw. “The problem was always our They came from behind to draw their football is the provider arrogance,” De la Paz Herrera told FIFA next match, against Northern Ireland, of hope in this country.” World. “We always started the qualifi ers but were out of the competition after th Mauricio Kawas, Honduran television well, and thought that having good losing to an 87 -minute penalty against presenter players would be enough. But it doesn’t Yugoslavia. happen like that. Even before the 2006 This time around, it is European while over the years, eight hurricanes FIFA World Cup, we went to Costa Rica champions Spain, South American have devastated parts of the country: in and won 5-2, but couldn’t win another qualifying runners-up Chile and the 1974, Hurricane Fifi killed approximately game after that.” highly organised Swiss who lie in wait 10,000, while in 1999, Hurricane Mitch This group of players, though, have for Honduras. But whatever their results in caused 5,000 fatalities. remained humble throughout the campaign South Africa, the central Americans know The current crop of players, many and since then as well. Suazo, the Inter they have already penned a signifi cant of whom hail from the poor regions Milan striker currently on loan at Genoa, has chapter in their country’s history and, in the north of the country, were a kick-about in the streets of Ciudad Planeta moreover, one that fi nally provides a desperate to give something back to when he returns, while Wigan defender positive read. their countrymen. “The situation made Maynor Figueroa still jumps behind the us focus even harder on what we wanted wheel of a bus at his father’s depot in to achieve,” said striker Carlo Costly, Tegucigalpa. “If you want to achieve Additional reporting by Federico who scored six times in 16 qualifying important things in life, you often have Bassahun in Tegucigalpa appearances, but who now looks set to miss out on South Africa with a fractured foot. “We all spoke about it and we promised to do our very best to help the country with its problems”, added Costly whose father Allan played for Honduras in the 1982 FIFA World CupTM. We know we can help people forget their problems.” The new century has seen the emergence of a new generation of talented players who have now been in the same team for nearly ten years. They fi rst gave notice of their ability at the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney, beating hosts Australia 2-1 and drawing 3-3 with reigning champions Nigeria, before losing Anthony Costly pulls off an acrobatic clearance during the Hondurans’ 1-1 draw with Spain 3-1 to Italy. Five players in that squad at the 1982 FIFA World Cup.

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 145 ANIMALS, PIRATES AND WARRIORS The World Cup is coming to Africa, a continent where nicknames are traditionally used in football instead of country names. But this symbolism is also a deep-rooted tradition in other parts of the world and the 32 teams participating in the tournament will all proudly answer to their alternative name tags. By Pablo San Roman

146 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 “Socceroos, Black Stars, White Eagles” not fully do them justice. Initially, the best THE ROLE OF THE PRESS shouted the headline of a German African players were always presented by newspaper following December’s Final the European press as primitives, whose The press have traditionally played a crucial Draw for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ in skills were a legacy of their connection to role in the popularisation of nicknames. In a Cape Town. The reference was to Germany’s the animal world. Eusebio was therefore lot of cases, it is the journalists themselves who come up with the monikers and they are almost Group D rivals in the tournament: Australia likened to a panther, Ben Barek to a feline, always the ones who take it upon themselves (the Socceroos), Ghana (the Black Stars) and and Salif Keita a gazelle. to ensure that the names catch on. Serbia (the White Eagles). A similar style “At the time at least, European journalists “Nicknames are often created by the press,” was employed by a French newspaper in found it diffi cult to acknowledge that confi rms historian Pierre Lanfranchi. “The fi rst March when it simply summed up France’s African players might be playing a tactical famous nickname for a national team was the 2-0 defeat to Spain in a Paris friendly as game, with good technique,” Lanfranchi Austrian Wunderteam (“wonder team”) in the “Reds trounce Blues”. explains, “and that is something that has early 1930s. The name was invented by the press, but in any case it had a positive effect Fans not accustomed to the common translated into some of the nicknames on the team and their morale.” use of nicknames in place of country titles subsequently applied to Africa’s national According to Lanfranchi, the press has may have to brush up on the long list teams.” sometimes also played a part in infl uencing of alternative team designations when Lanfranchi adds that other African team colours, as was the case with Italy, who nicknames were coined as a response to played their fi rst matches in a white shirt. “Italy those already adopted by rival teams on the were due to play against Hungary, who also “Using the teams’ continent. “The reference to the Algerian played in white, in January 1911,” Lanfranchi points out. “For that match, Italy chose a blue Fennecs came about at a later stage, colours or symbols as shirt (the colour of the Savoy royal family). One with the fi rst mentions in the press in the a nickname means that journalist wrote: ‘The chromatic effect of the early eighties, and it seems to have been new blue shirt and the white shorts, together the players are honoured a response to Cameroon’s Indomitable with the exceptionally sunny January weather, Lions and Côte d’Ivoire’s Elephants,” he soon won the crowd over’.” to wear those colours says. “Nowadays, a link to a wild animal Brazil’s moniker a Canarinha, a reference to and will commit to the has become almost compulsory for African the yellow colour of their shirts, was also a teams, and these associations are already media creation. Commentator Geraldo José team and play with de Almeida popularised the name in 1970 in regular use by the fans and media.” in Mexico, the fi rst time the World Cup was energy.” The South African hosts of the 2010 broadcast on television, although the nickname Patrick Mignon, French writer and FIFA World Cup are one of the exceptions had been in use since 1954 when the team sociologist to this rule and will head into their home started to wear a yellow shirt in the qualifi ers tournament firmly established in the for the World Cup in Switzerland. nation’s hearts as Bafana Bafana (literally In Spain, meanwhile, the national side was the FIFA World Cup™ arrives in Africa, meaning “Boys, Boys” in Zulu). The fi rst called La Furia Roja (“Red Fury”) on 1 September 1920, in its third match in the a continent where such nicknames term was coined by a journalist working Olympic Games in Antwerp again Sweden, abound. Otherwise they might struggle to for a Soweto newspaper following the which Spain won 2-1. After that match, the comprehend reports that tell of elephants abolition of apartheid and the return of Italian press described the Spanish side, which being crushed by desert foxes – a bizarre- South Africa to international competition went on to win silver in the tournament, La sounding phenomenon recorded by one in 1992. Some say that the name arose Furia Rossa. Nowadays the Spanish national Algerian newspaper in January when the because the teams were coached by older team has less “fury” and more technical ability, country’s national side (the Fennecs, or men and the players were all very young, and therefore in recent years has been referred to simply as La Roja, in honour of the colour Desert Foxes) beat Côte d’Ivoire’s Elephants although another theory is that it was of their shirts. at the Africa Cup of Nations. chosen because the team only won one Big cats or other powerful animals tend of its fi rst six international matches due to dominate the jungle of African team to their lack of experience in high-level nicknames, perhaps in part due to long- matches. such as la Albiceleste (“the White and lingering European stereotypes. Pierre Sky Blues”, Argentina), la Roja (“the Lanfranchi, a professor at England’s De Patriot games Reds”, Chile), la Celeste (“the Sky Blues”, Montfort University and a renowned While African teams are generally Uruguay), la Albirroja (“the White and football historian, argues that as well as inspired by the animal kingdom, the Reds”, Paraguay), a Canarinha (“the Canary strength, African players also have good patriotic Latin Americans tend to identify Yellows”, Brazil), el Tri (Mexico, a reference technical skills, which is why he believes themselves through the colour of their shirt to the tricolour of its fl ag), and la Bicolor that references to powerful animals do or national fl ag, resulting in nicknames (“the Bicolours”, Honduras).

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 147 The nicknames of the European teams The players have the full responsibility and that will be competing in South Africa honour of wearing the shirt.” also suggest a degree of patriotism, with One European team that manages to several being identifi ed by national or combine both patriotic symbolism and regional colours, such as les Bleus (“The a reference to a powerful animal is the Blues”, France), la Roja (“The Reds”, Spain) Serbian White Eagles, a reference to the or the Azzurri (“The Blues”), chosen by birds which appear on the country’s Italy because it was the colour of the coat of arms. Other national teams House of Savoy. In a similar vein, the who have adopted emblems Netherlands chose the Oranje because of from their national coat of the connection with their royal family, the arms or other heraldry include House of Orange. Portugal, known as the Seleção “In Europe, the national football teams das Quinas (“the Section of the were established during an era when Shields”) and England, whose Three countries were developing their national Lions have appeared on the team’s shirt unity and identity, and that is why the since their fi rst match in 1872. Outside of colours are of such importance when Europe, Ghana (the Black Stars) and the coming up with nicknames. In African US (Stars and Stripes) also use elements countries, the teams’ sobriquets are from their national fl ags. New Zealand” feature connected to African symbolism, and the on page 124). Created from scratch Across the Tasman Sea, in While many of the historic, heraldic or Australia, meanwhile, the animal-inspired nicknames are based upon rugby team was known as long-standing use and tradition, others the Wallabies, but the have a much shorter past. In Japan, football team did not for example, the Samurai Blue was have a similar moniker. actually created from scratch by the The inventor of the Japan Football Association. “We nickname the Socceroos, needed a nickname to support a composite of the words kangaroos and the team for the 2006 World soccer, was Tony Horstead of Sydney’s Cup,” explains Megumi Fujinoki Daily Mirror. Horstead coined the word in of the Japanese FA’s communications 1967 when he was covering the national department. “So to choose a name, we side’s tour in Vietnam, although it did not put fi ve options to a vote by the fans and come into common usage in the press they picked Samurai Blue.” until 1972. The Australian FA fi rst used the In New Zealand, the fi rst 11 were originally known as the Kiwis, after the national bird, and used to wear white shirts and socks and black shorts, but before the 1982 World Cup in Spain, symbols tend to be related more to nature their fi rst participation than the symbolism of colours, which is in the fi nal round of very pronounced in western countries,” the competition, they comments Patrick Mignon, French writer decided to change the and sociologist from the National Sports colour of the shorts and Physical Education Institute (INSEP) so the kit would be all in Paris. white, giving rise to the “Using the teams’ colours or symbols nickname the All Whites, as a nickname means that the players are drawing a parallel honoured to wear the nation’s colour or but at the same time symbol, or animal in the case of African differentiating themselves teams, and this will make the players from the rugby team, the commit to the teams and play with energy. All Blacks (see “Old and

148 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 name Socceroos in 1973 in the match programmes for the preliminary ROLL CALL: competition for the 1974 World Cup in THE ALTERNATIVE NAMES OF THIS YEAR’S WORLD CUP Germany, for which they qualifi ed. CONTENDERS For the Cameroonian team, Algeria: Les Fennecs (“the Desert Foxes” in French) – Les Verts (“the Greens” in among the most popular of the African French) national sides, the nickname the Argentina: La Albiceleste (“the White and Sky Blues” in Spanish) Indomitable Lions was also Australia: The Socceroos (a combination of the words “soccer” and “kangaroos) deliberately created, Brazil: a Canarinha (“the Canary Yellows” in Portuguese) back in 1972. After Cameroon: Les Lions Indomptables (“the Indomitable Lions” in French) Cameroon had failed Chile: La Roja (“the Reds” in Spanish) to win the Africa Côte d’Ivoire: Les Éléphants (“the Elephants” in French) Cup of Nations as Denmark: Danish Dynamite England: The Three Lions hosts that year, the France: Les Bleus (“the Blues” in French) country’s president, Germany: Die Mannschaft (“the Team” in German) Ahmadou Ahidjo, Ghana: The Black Stars ordered a series Greece: To Peiratiko (“the Pirate Ship” in Greek), Peirates (“the Pirates” in Greek) of general reforms, Honduras: La Bicolor, Los Catrachos (“the Bicolours” in Spanish. “Catracho” is Spanish one of which was to slang for a citizen of Honduras) christen the national team. Italy: Azzurri (“the Blues” in Italian) Japan: Samurai Blue The Minister for Sport held a Korea DPR: Chollima (a mythical Korean horse) meeting with various members Korea Republic: The Taeguk Warriors of his cabinet, one of whom Mexico: El Tri (“the Tricolours”) suggested calling them the Lions. Netherlands: Oranje (“the Orange” in Dutch) Later, to differentiate them from New Zealand: The All Whites other teams that had already chosen Nigeria: The Super Eagles the big cat as their symbol, the adjective Paraguay: La Albirroja (“the White and Reds” in Spanish) Portugal: Seleção das Quinas (“the Selection of the Shields” in Portuguese) Indomitable was added to the name. Serbia: Belo Orlovi (“the White Eagles” in Serbian) Greece’s sobriquet, the To Peiratiko Slovakia: Narodny Tim (“the National Team” in Slovak) (“the Pirate Ship”), is one of the most Slovenia: Reprezentanca (“the Representatives” in Slovenian) recent, as it was coined in 2004 after South Africa: Bafana, Bafana (“Boys, Boys” in Zulu) they won the European Championship in Spain: La Furia Roja, La Roja (the “Red Fury”, “the Reds” in Spanish) Portugal. The most widely accepted story Switzerland: Nati (short for “Nationalmannschaft”, meaning “national team” in behind Greece’s nickname is that the team German) surprised everyone with their victory in the Uruguay: La Celeste (the “Sky Blues” in Spanish) USA: The Stars and Stripes tournament, similar to a surprise attack by pirates on another ship, and this nickname was popularised by the media following the competition. Not all of the teams’ alternative names are decision to call their team die Mannschaft Another recent nickname is Danish so playful. Germany, for example, are known also demonstrates the great value that is Dynamite, which originated in 1983, simply as die Mannschaft (“the Team”) attached to the collective, to the team, and after Denmark overcame England 1-0 or Nationalmannschaft (“the National the sense of discipline which is expected.” at Wembley thanks to a goal by Allan Team”), while in Switzerland the fans refer Whatever the reasons for the nicknames, Simonsen, setting them on course to to their team as die Nati (an abbreviation or their effect on each nation’s psyche, qualify for EURO ’84 in France, at which of Nationalmannschaft). But even such one thing is clear: at a tournament they reached the semi-fi nals. A few weeks seemingly straightforward nametags can already brimming with talented teams before that match, a Danish newspaper tell a story. “Germany has had a number and individuals, the widespread use of such launched a competition to choose a song of fl ags in the past, and there have been pet names can only add to the excitement for the Danish national team. The chant diffi culties in choosing an exact colour, as millions of people around the world “We are red, we are white, we are Danish unlike in Italy, where blue is the colour of tune in to watch the four-yearly battle of Dynamite” became very popular, and the the House of Savoy, or in France, where elephants, eagles, lions, foxes, warriors last two words went on to become the blue has traditionally been the national and pirates, all eagerly out to defend their team nickname. colour,” explains Mignon. “Germany’s cherished colours.

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 149 THE MEN IN THE MIDDLE The names of the 32 teams who qualify programmes were among the most decision by a referee at a FIFA World Cup for the FIFA World Cup™ and their important elements of a programme can have serious consequences for the individual players may change from aimed at helping the referees attain peak overall competition. In order to anticipate tournament to tournament but there condition during South Africa’s month-long and prevent as many of these mistakes as is one team, traditionally dressed in black, footballing festival. International experts in possible, the FIFA Refereeing Department who are ever-present and without whom the fi elds of refereeing technique, fi tness ensures that the referees’ performances no FIFA World Cup could take place. and psychology provided the referees with are studied scrupulously on the same day The 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ valuable input while the latest technology of the match by the FIFA match analysts, will involve a team of 30 refereeing trios was employed to further aid the referees assisted by the RAP IT specialists. In order drawn from 28 different countries, made up with practical training and interactive to further improve performance levels, the of 24 active trios along with six supporting sessions. FIFA Refereeing Department also organises trios who will be called upon if any of the Theoretical tests were also undertaken debriefi ng sessions the day after matches, designated offi cials are unable to take part, exclusively in English – the lingua franca for during which all controversial refereeing for example due to injury or illness. FIFA’s referees for many years – to ensure decisions are discussed in detail by the As well as having the support of their appropriate knowledge of the Laws of the RAP instructors and the referees. colleagues, the match offi cials at this year’s Game, the regulations for FIFA competitions During these sessions, the referees also FIFA World Cup have received the backing and the directives of the International benefi t from the analysis of specialists of the most comprehensive refereeing Football Association Board (IFAB). from the RAP biomechanical project, who development programme ever operated by The importance of all this hard work scientifi cally dissect each of the referee’s world football’s governing body. Created was underlined in March this year when movements during a given match and in 2007, and drawing heavily on the the IFAB emphatically ruled out calls for demonstrate the importance of the experiences of the 2006 FIFA World Cup™, the use of goal-line technology in football, referee’s positioning on the pitch when FIFA’s Refereeing Assistance Programme insisting that the sport should continue to he makes a decision. (RAP) has followed and nurtured an elite rely on human decisions and that those Thanks to rigorous preparation, extensive group of prospective World Cup referees, decisions should remain the responsibility training and their clear passion for their carefully whittling down the original list of of the referee. Through programmes such profession, the 30 referees profi led on 54 trios to select the fi nal line-up of top as the RAP, however, FIFA is working hard the following pages will be doing their offi cials from around the world to take to ensure that the offi cials are not alone utmost this month to ensure that the part in FIFA’s fl agship event. in bearing that responsibility. world’s attention is focused not on them, Courses, training seminars, performance To err is human, and referees, like but on the “other” 32 teams taking part feedback sessions and physical training players, make mistakes. However, a wrong at this year’s event.

150 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Age: 34, turns 35 on July 2 Age: 39 Residence: San Salvador Residence: Jeddah Profession: Professor Profession: Teacher International International referee since: 2001 referee since: 2003 Mother tongue: Spanish Mother tongue: Arabic Other languages: English Other languages: English Hobbies: Reading, writing, listening to music Hobbies: Swimming, travel Assistants: William TORRES, (El Salvador) Assistants: Hassan KAMRANIFAR (Iran) Joel AGUILAR Juan ZUMBA (El Salvador) Khalil AL GHAMDI Saleh AL MARZOUQI (UAE) (El Salvador) (Saudi Arabia) The youngest of the referees selected for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, Joel A top-fl ight referee in the Saudi Professional League since 1996, Khalil Al Aguilar has often been ahead of his years. He was only 25 when he refereed Ghamdi joined the FIFA international list in 2003 and was selected for the FIFA his fi rst game in El Salvador’s top division and was still in his twenties when he U-17 World Cup in Finland, where he took charge of two fi rst-round matches. took charge of the nerve-jangling 2004 Apertura fi nal between C.D. FAS and Two years later he took part in the FIFA U-20 World Cup in the Netherlands, Atlético Balboa, a match which was eventually decided by a penalty shoot- before offi ciating the fi nal of the AFC Cup between Al Faisaly of Jordan and out. Aguilar has refereed at two CONCACAF Gold Cups and three FIFA youth Al-Nejmeh of Lebanon. Al Ghamdi presided over two important matches in competitions. His tally of nine fi nal-phase FIFA matches so far is more than the third and decisive round of Asian qualifying for the 2006 FIFA World Cup any other Salvadoran referee to date. Aguilar became a referee by accident. Germany, before carrying out fourth offi cial duties at several matches during He used to lead a church team for children and whenever referees failed to Germany 2006 itself. Since then he has offi ciated at the FIFA Club World Cup, show up he would offi ciate the match so that the children would not miss out the Beijing Men’s Olympic Football Tournament in 2008 and the Africa Cup of on playing. He believes that the biggest challenge facing referees today is the Nations 2010. Al Ghamdi, who became a referee after hanging up his playing speed at which the game is played as well as being able to deal with diving, an boots, describes the psychological and physical preparation levels required in area in which, he says, there is little fair play. professional football as the biggest challenge facing referees today.

Age: 39 Age: 44 Residence: Asunción Residence: Tlalnepantla Profession: Electrical engineer Profession: Lawyer and economist International International referee since: 1997 referee since: 1993 Mother tongue: Spanish Mother tongue: Spanish Other languages: English, Portuguese Other languages: English Hobbies: Family, music, reading, Hobbies: Playing football, physical training, cinema, sport playing video games, reading Carlos AMARILLA Assistants: Emigdio RUIZ (Paraguay) Benito ARCHUNDIA Assistants: Hector VERGARA (Canada) (Paraguay) Nicolas YEGROS (Paraguay) (Mexico) Marvin TORRENTERA (Mexico) A highly experienced referee who began his professional career in 1992, rising One of the most experienced referees selected for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, to the international ranks fi ve years later. He made his debut at the fi nals Benito Archundia has a wealth of top-level refereeing knowledge to call upon, of a FIFA tournament in the FIFA U-20 World Cup 2001 in Argentina and all of which started with the day he took charge of his fi rst match in the has been a regular offi cial in South American club competitions including Mexican Primera División aged just 25. Entered on the FIFA international list the Copa Sudamericana, where he has refereed three fi nals, and the Copa just two years later in 1993, he was immediately appointed to referee at the Libertadores. He is one of only seven referees with experience of two separate FIFA U-17 World Cup in Japan, where he handled the semi-fi nal between FIFA Confederations Cup tournaments, having been called up in both 2003 Nigeria and Poland. Since then, Archundia has been a regular CONCACAF and 2005. He also presided over two consecutive Copa América fi nals, in 2004 Gold Cup, FIFA youth tournament and Olympic Football Tournament referee. and 2007, with both fi nals featuring Brazil and Argentina. Now getting ready His fi rst senior FIFA competition was the FIFA Confederations Cup 2001, a for his second FIFA World Cup, Amarilla took charge of three group stage competition he returned to last year in South Africa. In 2009 he also refereed matches at the 2006 edition. Refereeing runs in Amarilla’s family as his father the FIFA Club World Cup fi nal between Barcelona and Estudiantes. Perhaps and two younger brothers have also offi ciated at various levels. the biggest highlight so far for Archundia, however, were his performances at the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany where he became the fi rst referee to oversee fi ve matches at one tournament. He believes that the biggest challenge facing referees today is the discrepancy between a referee’s limited Age: 44 view and the multiple angles shown by television. Residence: Rio Ceballos Cordoba Profession: Businessman International Age: 42 referee since: 2000 Residence: Guatemala City Mother tongue: Spanish Profession: Scientist Other languages: English International Hobbies: Golf referee since: 1996 Assistants: Ricardo CASAS (Argentina) Mother tongue: Spanish Hector BALDASSI Hernan MAIDANA (Argentina) (Argentina) Other languages: English Hobbies: Sport, reading, family A highly experienced offi cial who fi rst started refereeing at the age of 25, Baldassi took charge of his fi rst top-fl ight league match in Argentina’s Primera Assistants: Leonel LEAL (Costa Rica) Carlos BATRES Carlos PASTRANA (Honduras) División just over a decade ago. Since then he has overseen high-level matches (Guatemala) in the Copa Libertadores, Copa América and Copa Sudamericana – in which he was appointed to the 2006 fi nal. During the qualifying stages for the 2006 Formerly a central defender in the youth ranks of San Gabriel, Carlos Batres FIFA World Cup, Baldassi was placed in charge of eight matches, a record stumbled into refereeing at the age of 15 when he stood in to offi ciate a equalled only by his compatriot Horacio Elizondo. Since then he has been match after the original referee failed to appear. He made his top-fl ight debut called upon to offi ciate at FIFA U-20 World Cups in 2007 and 2009 and at the in the Guatemalan league in 1994 and joined the FIFA international list in Men’s Olympic Football Tournament in Beijing in 2008. Last year he took part 1996. The vast amount of international experience he has acquired since then in the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Egypt and also offi ciated seven CONCACAF includes fi ve CONCACAF Gold Cups – at which he has taken charge of an 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifi ers. An ardent golfer, Baldassi believes that the unprecedented three fi nals – and two FIFA U-17 World Cups (in 1999 and biggest challenge facing referees is the split second in time that they have to 2009). He has also participated in two FIFA Confederations Cups (in 2001 and make decisions. 2003) and two FIFA Club World Cups, describing the 2006 fi nal as his most memorable game to date. He is now preparing for his second FIFA World Cup, having also been on board for the 2002 FIFA World Cup™ in Korea/Japan, where he handled two games, including the round of 16 encounter between Germany and Paraguay.

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 151 Age: 40 Age: 37 Residence: Leiria Residence: Oran Profession: Insurance professional Profession: Businessman International International referee since: 2001 referee since: 2001 Mother tongue: Portuguese Mother tongue: Arabic Other languages: English, French, Spanish Other languages: English, French Hobbies: Music, singing, racing cars Hobbies: Reading and sport Assistants: José CARDINAL (Portugal) Assistants: Nasser ABDEL NABI (Egypt), Olegário Bertino MIRANDA (Portugal) Mohamed BENOUZA Mamar CHABANE (Algeria) BENQUERENÇA (Algeria) (Portugal) Benquerença was born the son of a referee and, after playing the game as Mohamed Benouza took charge of his fi rst match in Algeria’s top a youngster, eventually followed in his father’s footsteps. He took charge league at the tender age of 24, before gaining international status of his fi rst match in Portugal’s top tier during the 1995-96 season, before in 2001 while still only 29 years old. He was selected for his fi rst gaining international status in 2001. In 2005 he refereed three European Zone international tournament in 2003, overseeing two matches at the FIFA qualifi ers for the 2006 FIFA World Cup and was then selected for FIFA U-17 U-20 World Cup, and went on to handle three games at both the Canada World Cup action in 2007 when he oversaw one round of 16 match before 2007 and Egypt 2009 editions of the event. He has also offi ciated at the last presiding over the third-place play-off which pitted Germany against Ghana. three editions of the Africa Cup of Nations and at last year’s FIFA U-17 World In 2009 he took charge of a UEFA Cup semi-fi nal between Shakhtar Donetsk Cup in Nigeria, and, at club level, recently oversaw the second leg of the 2009 and Dynamo Kyiv, refereed at the FIFA U-20 World Cup and took charge of the CAF Champions League fi nal between Mazembe and Heartland. Benouza, second leg of the 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifying play-off between Ukraine who has also offi ciated domestic league encounters in Tunisia and Qatar, has and Greece. The Portuguese offi cial thinks that one of the biggest challenges taken charge of more fi nal-phase matches in FIFA competitions than any other facing referees today is the difference between what the referee sees and what Algerian referee to date. the camera sees and thinks it is important for referees to continually improve their skills. Age: 39, turns 40 on 4 July Residence: Bamako Age: 40 Profession: Finance inspector Residence: Monte Carrasso International Profession: Company proprietor referee since: 1999 International Mother tongue: Bambara referee since: 1999 Other languages: English, French Mother tongue: Italian Hobbies: Former volleyball player Other languages: English, French, German, Spanish Assistants: Redouane ACHIK (Morocco), Hobbies: Skiing Koman COULIBALY Inácio CÂNDIDO (Angola) (Mali) Assistants: Matthias Arnet (Switzerland) Massimo BUSACCA Francesco Buragina (Switzerland) (Switzerland) A keen former volleyball player, Koman Coulibaly presided over his fi rst match in Mali’s top league at the age of 26, and was picked as a FIFA referee in After fi rst aiming for a career as a footballer, and reaching Switzerland’s fi fth 1999 after just three seasons at the top level, his international debut coming division, Massimo Busacca switched to refereeing after realising that he could that same year during the fi rst round of the CAF Champions League. He has not achieve the top level as a player. He has wasted little time in doing so been involved in the CAF Africa Cup of Nations since 2002, and this year took as a player, making his Swiss fi rst-division refereeing debut in 1996 before charge of the tournament fi nal between Egypt and Ghana. In the run-up to celebrating his international breakthrough three years later in the 1999 both the 2006 and 2010 FIFA World Cups he offi ciated eight African zone UEFA Intertoto Cup. Since then, he has been one of the busiest referees in qualifi cation ties, more than any other African referee. A fan of football in his European club-level competitions, offi ciating in a UEFA Cup semi-fi nal in 2005 spare time as well, Coulibaly describes Senegal’s shock win over France at the and then the 2007 Espanyol-Sevilla fi nal, before reaching the pinnacle of club 2002 FIFA World Cup as his fondest sporting memory. He believes that the football with the 2009 UEFA Champions League fi nal between Barcelona and biggest challenge facing referees today is always trying to minimise errors with Manchester United. He was involved in the fi nals of the 2006 FIFA World Cup the goal of reaching a zero error rate – something which he acknowledges as Germany up until the round of 16, overseeing three matches. He also took being diffi cult given the increasing pace of world football. part in UEFA EURO 2008 and presided over the Germany v. Turkey semi-fi nal. Last season he was particularly busy, taking part in the FIFA Confederations Cup 2009, the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Nigeria and various FIFA World Cup Age: 43, turns 44 on July 1 2010 qualifying matches including the decisive second-leg play-off between Residence: Oudenaarde Uruguay and Costa Rica. Profession: PR manager International referee since: 1998 Age: 38 Mother tongue: Dutch Residence: Cape Town Other languages: English, French, German Profession: English and life skills teacher Hobbies: Tennis, travelling International referee since: 2000 Assistants: Peter HERMANS, (Belgium) Frank DE BLEECKERE Walter VROMANS (Belgium) Mother tongue: English (Belgium) Other languages: Afrikaans Hobbies: Watching sport (rugby/cricket), After suffering a serious injury at the age of 18, Frank De Bleeckere swapped playing chess and working with a playing career for the referee’s shirt, making his Belgian Pro League debut in Jerome DAMON young people 1995. Since then he has risen to become one of the most recognised referees in (South Africa) Assistants: Celestin NTAGUNGIRA (Rwanda) UEFA club competitions, with highlights including three UEFA Cup semi-fi nals, Enock MOLEFE (South Africa) the 2007 Champions League semi-fi nal between AC Milan and Manchester United and the 2009 UEFA Super Cup fi nal between Barcelona and Shakhtar Jerome Damon was just 24 when he began refereeing matches in the top Donetsk. A veteran of three FIFA youth competitions, De Bleeckere was called fl ight of South African football. He made his way on to the international stage up for senior duty at the 2006 FIFA World Cup Germany, where he oversaw in 2000, but had to wait three years for his fi rst meeting of national sides, a four matches including a quarter-fi nal. He was then chosen for three matches Swaziland-Botswana qualifi er for the Africa Cup of Nations. Since then he has at EURO 2008, including the Spain-Russia semi-fi nal. Much of De Bleeckere’s offi ciated at three editions of the FIFA U-17 World Cup and four CAF Africa inspiration for becoming a referee lies in family tradition as both his father Cup of Nations tournaments, and in 2008 became the fi rst South African and grandfather were referees in Belgium’s top fl ight. He believes that the referee to offi ciate at an Olympic Football Tournament. Four years ago he was biggest challenge facing referees today is the camera and media proximity, a fourth offi cial at the 2006 FIFA World Cup Germany, an experience which he explaining that “every detail matters which requires a completely different type lists among his fondest memories – along with his selection as a candidate for of mentality compared to the past.” 2010. Damon, whose father was a former South African head of refereeing, believes that the biggest challenge facing referees today is trying to see every case of foul play on the pitch.

152 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Age: 39 Age: 38 Residence: Holmsjö Residence: Auckland Profession: Referee Profession: Naval offi cer International International referee since: 2001 referee since: 2007 Mother tongue: Swedish Mother tongue: English Other languages: English, German Other languages: - Hobbies: Hunting, fi shing Hobbies: Snowboarding, travel, golf Assistants: Henrik ANDREN (Sweden) Assistants: Jan-Hendrik HINTZ (New Zealand) Martin HANSSON Stefan WITTBERG (Sweden) Michael HESTER Tevita MAKASINI (Tonga) (Sweden) (New Zealand)

After getting his fi rst taste of refereeing at the tender age of 15, Martin Although a New Zealander, Michael Hester was actually born in Australia. Hansson took charge of his fi rst game in the top tier of Swedish football He is also one of the most recent recruits to the ranks of international in 1999. His international career began in 2001, with the UEFA European referees, making his international debut at the 2007 South Pacifi c Games, U-16 Championship, as well as a UEFA Champions League qualifying match where he took charge of the Fiji-New Caledonia fi nal. The following year, between Sheriff Tiraspol and Anderlecht. In 2003, he oversaw his fi rst meeting he was selected for the Men’s Olympic Football Tournament Beijing 2008, of national teams (Estonia v. Canada), and received his fi rst call-up for a FIFA where he offi ciated in two fi rst-round matches. In 2009 he was appointed event at that year’s U-17 World Cup in Finland. He was subsequently chosen to both the FIFA Confederations Cup and the FIFA U-17 World Cup where he for the FIFA U-20 World Cup 2007 in Canada, where he took charge of six presided over fi ve matches including the semi-fi nal between Colombia and games – a competition record – and the FIFA Confederations Cup 2009, where Switzerland. Hester’s involvement with football began as a player. However, as he oversaw the fi nal between USA and Brazil. Hansson was asked to start he approached his late 20s he realised that his playing ambition exceeded his refereeing due to a lack of offi cials at his local club and immediately enjoyed ability and he therefore decided to try refereeing instead. He believes that the it. He believes that the biggest challenge facing referees today is protecting biggest challenge facing referees today is the single split-second view that they the game from violent behaviour and making sure that cheats do not prosper. have of a match situation compared to the multitude of camera views from which they are now scrutinised.

Age: 32 Residence: Tashkent Age: 34 Profession: School football instructor Residence: Tatabanya International Profession: Sales manager referee since: 2003 International Mother tongue: Uzbek referee since: 2003 Other languages: English, Russian Mother tongue: Hungarian Other languages: English Hobbies: Football, swimming, tennis Assistants: Rafael ILYASOV (Uzbekistan) Hobbies: Sport, cinema Ravshan IRMATOV Bahadyr Kocharov (Kyrgyzstan) Assistants: Gabor EROS (Hungary) (Uzbekistan) Viktor KASSAI Tibor VAMOS (Hungary) (Hungary) With an international career dating back to 2003, Ravshan Irmatov is the only Uzbek referee to have offi ciated in the fi nals of a FIFA tournament to date. He Viktor Kassai became the fi rst Hungarian referee to offi ciate an Olympic has appeared three times at the FIFA U-17 World Cup (2003, 2007 and 2009), fi nal when he took charge of the Argentina-Nigeria gold-medal decider at once at the FIFA U-20 World Cup and also at the FIFA Club World Cup Japan the Men’s Olympic Football Tournament Beijing 2008, just under ten years 2008, where he not only handled the quarter-fi nal meeting of Al Ahly and after making his top-fl ight refereeing debut in Hungary in 1999. In between Pachuca, but also took charge of the Liga de Quito-Manchester United fi nal. those career milestones, he has overseen FIFA World Cup qualifying matches, Irmatov offi ciated eight Asian qualifying matches for South Africa 2010 and games at two FIFA youth events (the FIFA U-20 World Cup 2007 and FIFA was voted as AFC referee of the year in both 2008 and 2009. Irmatov is a keen U-17 World Cup 2009) and participated at EURO 2008 as a fourth offi cial. hobby footballer and it was during an injury lay-off in 1996 that his father, at More recent preparations for the 2010 FIFA World Cup included the fi rst leg of the time a national-level referee, suggested that his son take up refereeing – the qualifying play-off between New Zealand and Bahrain. When Kassai was advice he is now glad that he followed! Irmatov says that the biggest challenge just 15, he and his brother were both advised to take up refereeing by their facing referees today is overseeing the safety of players during a match and father, himself a referee since 1974. Asked about the biggest challenge faced trying to prevent excessively forceful tackles. by referees today, Kassai comments that many players seem prepared to do anything to win, regardless of fair play. “Referees therefore have to take care that they provide the best control possible on the pitch,” he says. Age: 39 Residence: Sailly-sur-la-Lys Age: 42 Profession: Salesman Residence: Montevideo International referee since: 2006 Profession: Clerk Mother tongue: French International referee since: 1998 Other languages: English Mother tongue: Spanish Hobbies: Reading, cinema Other languages: English Assistants: Eric DANSAULT (France) Stéphane LANNOY Laurent UGO (France) Hobbies: Breeding animals (birds, dogs, (France) parrots, etc.) Jorge LARRIONDA Assistants: Pablo FANDINO (Uruguay) (Uruguay) Stephane Lannoy played football up until the age of 20, before donning the Mauricio ESPINOSA (Uruguay) referee’s shirt and going on to make his French top-fl ight debut in the 2002- 03 season. He achieved international status in 2006, taking charge of his fi rst The grandson of former Uruguayan top-division player Luis Pietrafesa, Jorge senior international match (a Spain-Croatia friendly) in the same year. Since Larrionda was himself a decent striker who made it as far as the country’s then he has offi ciated at the UEFA European U-21 Championship, refereed sixth division. He achieved far greater success, however, after switching to in the UEFA Champions League, served as a fourth offi cial at EURO 2008 and refereeing, reaching Uruguay’s top fl ight in 1993. His international refereeing presided over Brazil v. New Zealand at the Men’s Olympic Football Tournament debut came fi ve years later at the 1998 Copa Libertadores. No stranger to Beijing 2008. His fi rst FIFA fi nals competition came at last year’s U-17 World big occasions, Larrionda has taken charge of nine fi nals in international club Cup in Nigeria where he took charge of three matches. As well as being a competitions: fi ve times in the Copa Libertadores, once in the Intercontinental referee and a former player, Lannoy has experience as a youth level coach. Cup, once in the Recopa Sudamericana and twice in the Copa Sudamericana. Football runs in his family, as his father also coaches youngsters. Lannoy Stepping up to world football’s biggest event at the 2006 FIFA World Cup says that the biggest challenge facing referees today lies in adapting to the Germany, Larrionda became the fi rst Uruguayan referee to take part since modernisation and evolution of the game. Ernesto Filippi in 1994, offi ciating in four matches, including the France- Portugal semi-fi nal. Other national team competitions have included two Copa Américas and two FIFA Confederations Cups, including last year’s edition in South Africa, where Larrionda handled the USA’s shock semi-fi nal defeat of European champions Spain. Among his most memorable matches was a game between Penarol and Villa Espanola in which Larrionda awarded no fewer than fi ve penalties.

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 153 Age: 42 Age: 43 Residence: Victoria, Mahe Residence: Parit Buntar (Perak) Profession: Refereeing coordinator Profession: Teacher International International referee since: 2001 referee since: 2000 Mother tongue: English Mother tongue: Malay Other languages: Creole, French Other languages: English Hobbies: Hockey Hobbies: Bowling and snooker Assistants: Evarist MENKOUANDE Assistants: MU Yuxin (China PR) Eddy MAILLET (Cameroon) Subkhiddin Jeffrey GEK PHENG (Singapore) (Seychelles) Bechir HASSANI (Tunisia) MOHD SALLEH (Malaysia) Eddy Maillet is the refereeing coordinator for his country’s FA and the only After working his way to the top fl ight of Malaysian football by the age of referee from the Seychelles to have offi ciated at the fi nals of a FIFA tournament. 30, Subkhiddin Mohd Salleh gained international status in 2000, and has His career record includes three FIFA U-17 World Cup competitions, including subsequently established himself as one of Asia’s most sought-after referees. the 2007 edition in Korea where his total of seven matches made him the In 2004 he refereed in two high-profi le fi nal competitions, the Asian Cup and referee with the most appearances in the history of the tournament. He has the Olympic Football Tournament, following this up with appearances at the also offi ciated at the FIFA U-20 World Cup and at the last four Africa Cup of FIFA U-17 World Cup in Peru in 2005, the FIFA Club World Cup Japan 2006, Nations tournaments, and oversaw several 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifying the FIFA U-20 World Cup Canada 2007, and at last year’s FIFA U-17 and U-20 matches, including the decisive play-off between Algeria and Egypt. Maillet World Cups in Nigeria and Egypt respectively, making him the fi rst Malaysian fi rst became a referee because his playing days had come to an end and he referee to have been involved in fi ve FIFA tournament fi nals. He has also taken wanted to continue his involvement in football. He believes that the biggest charge of more 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifying games than any other referee: challenge facing referees today is physical fi tness and trying to maintain it at 11 in total. Salleh hails from a large family, as one of ten siblings (fi ve boys and a top, professional level. fi ve girls). It was his numerous brothers, all of them keen young footballers, who encouraged him to be a referee, with further inspiration coming from his uncle, a respected referee in the late 1970s. Age: 38 Residence: Tokyo Profession: Referee Age: 38 International Residence: Hamilton referee since: 2004 Profession: Teacher Mother tongue: Japanese International Other languages: English referee since: 2003 Mother tongue: English Hobbies: Golf Assistants: SAGARA (Japan) JEONG Hae Other languages: - Yuichi NISHIMURA Sang (Korea Republic) Hobbies: Friends and family, reading, (Japan) fi shing, hiking Peter O’LEARY Assistants: Brent BEST (New Zealand) After two seasons in the J. League, Yuichi Nishimura’s international debut (New Zealand) Matthew TARO (Solomon Islands) came in 2004 with a Thailand-United Arab Emirates FIFA World Cup qualifi er. His nerves were tested two years later in an AFC Champions League semi- Since 1994, Peter O’Leary has been able to combine his life as a high-school fi nal between Kuwaiti side Al Qadisiya and Syria’s Al Karamah when a missed science teacher with a refereeing career that fi rst took him to New Zealand’s penalty led frustrated home fans to throw a smoke bomb and other objects top fl ight in 1999, with international status following in 2003. In 2007 he was on to the pitch. After suspending the match for 20 minutes, Nishimura was selected for the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Canada and the FIFA Club World Cup praised for resuming the match and bringing it to a normal conclusion. In in Japan, where he took charge of the match for third place between Étoile 2007 he oversaw the fi nal of the FIFA U-17 World Cup between Spain and du Sahel and Urawa Red Diamonds. He returned to the FIFA Club World Cup Nigeria, listing the experience as one of his fondest football memories, and in 2008 and 2009, with last year’s busy schedule also including call-ups to the has since refereed at the 2008 CAF Africa Cup of Nations and the FIFA U-20 FIFA U-17 and U-20 World Cups. As well as his New Zealand and Australian World Cup 2009. Somewhat ironically it was an example of bad refereeing league games, O’Leary also made an unexpected appearance in the English that led Nishimura to his eventual profession. In an earlier role as coach of Premier League in 2007-08. While watching Aston Villa play Sunderland as a youth team, Nishimura remembers seeing the dreams of his young players a guest of the referee Steve Bennett, he was called down from the stands at shattered by some poor offi ciating, something which inspired him to become half-time to replace the injured fourth offi cial. a referee himself.

Age: 36 Age: 37 Residence: Mexico City Residence: Santiago Profession: Physical education teacher Profession: Auditor International International referee since: 1999 referee since: 1999 Mother tongue: Spanish Mother tongue: Spanish Other languages: English Other languages: English Hobbies: Music, cycling, swimming, Hobbies: Family, sport reading the Bible Assistants: Patricio BASUALTO (Chile) Marco RODRÍGUEZ Assistants: José Luis CAMARGO (Mexico) Pablo POZO Francisco MONDRIA (Chile) (Mexico) (Chile) Alberto MORIN (Mexico) After more than ten years as an international-level referee, Marco Rodríguez Pablo Pozo, whose father was also a professional referee, made his debut in is now preparing for his second FIFA World Cup, having joined compatriot the Chilean Primera División in 1997, going on to offi ciate in six Chilean title Benito Archundia on the list of selected referees for the 2006 edition. Four matches. In an international career that began in 2003, he has appeared at all years ago, Rodríguez and Archundia were the only two referees from the the South American youth competitions: U-17, U-20 and the U-23 pre-Olympic same country to be chosen for the tournament in Germany, an honour which tournament. Along with numerous club competition matches, he took charge they share this year with New Zealand duo Michael Hester and Peter O’Leary. of three matches at the Men’s Olympic Football Tournament Beijing 2008, two Rodríguez oversaw two group-stage matches at Germany 2006, while the rest games at the FIFA Club World Cup Japan 2008, three games at the FIFA U-17 of his impressive resumé includes matches at FIFA U-17 and U-20 World Cups, World Cup Nigeria 2009 and two matches at last year’s FIFA Confederations CONCACAF Gold Cup games, Copa América duties – including a 2003 semi- Cup, including Spain’s group-stage encounter with the South African hosts. For fi nal between Brazil and Uruguay – and the 2007 FIFA Club World Cup fi nal. Pozo, football is a family tradition as his brother, Mauricio, was a professional Rodríguez was inspired to become a referee after watching fellow Mexican football player and his father was also a professional referee. Pozo believes Edgardo Codesal take charge of the 1990 FIFA World Cup™ fi nal between that the biggest challenge facing referees today is the level of professionalism West Germany and Argentina. which it has acquired and the preparation levels that this has necessitated.

154 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 Age: 42 Age: 40 Residence: Turin Residence: Villavicencio Profession: Hospital manager Profession: Lawyer, university teacher International International referee since: 2002 referee since: 1995 Mother tongue: Italian Mother tongue: Spanish Other languages: English, French Other languages: English, Portuguese Hobbies: Tennis, movies, books Hobbies: Music, reading, watching sport Assistants: Paolo CALCAGNO (Italy) Assistants: Abraham GONZÁLEZ (Colombia) Roberto ROSETTI Stefano AYROLDI (Italy) Oscar RUIZ Humberto CLAVIJO (Colombia) (Italy) (Colombia)

Unsurprisingly perhaps, Roberto Rosetti lists EURO 2008 among his fondest Now getting ready for his third FIFA World Cup, Oscar Ruiz is one of the football memories, a tournament at which the Italian was handed the world’s most experienced football referees, and it would be almost quicker unprecedented honour of refereeing not only the opening match between to list the competitions at which he has not offi ciated than those at which hosts Switzerland and the Czech Republic, but also the fi nal in Vienna between he has. The Colombian has taken charge of more games under the auspices Germany and eventual champions Spain. That match has been the biggest of the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) than any other highlight so far on an impressive refereeing CV which also includes games at referee, over 100 to date, and he also holds the record for matches in the the 2006 FIFA World Cup. Rosetti oversaw four matches at that tournament, Copa Libertadores. Ruiz has refereed in all CONMEBOL competitions, taking up until the round of 16, but took no further part due to the progress of his part in fi ve editions of the Copa América and taking charge of three Copa beloved Italy towards their eventual title win. Other FIFA competitions have Libertadores fi nals. Other appearances include the CONCACAF Gold Cup in included the FIFA World Youth Championship 2003, last year’s FIFA U-20 2005, as well as involvement in four FIFA U-20 World Cups, one FIFA U-17 World Cup in Egypt and the FIFA Confederations Cup Germany 2005, in which World Cup, two FIFA Club World Cups, the 2000 Intercontinental Cup fi nal Rosetti ordered Mexico’s Jared Borgetti to retake a penalty against Brazil not between Boca Juniors and Real Madrid, and two FIFA Confederations Cups. In once but twice. Last year, he offi ciated the fi nal of the Italian Cup, the all- South Africa this year, Ruiz will be looking to add to the four FIFA World Cup English UEFA Champions League semi-fi nal between Arsenal and Manchester matches that he has handled so far – three at Korea/Japan 2002 and one at United and another semi-fi nal at the FIFA Club World Cup. Germany 2006.

Age: 44 Age: 40 Residence: Braga Residence: Ergolding Profession: Journalist Profession: Banker International International referee since: 1997 referee since: 1999 Mother tongue: Portuguese Mother tongue: German Other languages: English, Spanish Other languages: English Hobbies: Reading, sport Hobbies: Sport Assistants: Altemir HAUSMANN (Brazil) Assistants: Jan-Hendrik SALVER (Germany) Carlos SIMON Roberto BRAATZ (Brazil) Wolfgang STARK Mike PICKEL (Germany) (Brazil) (Germany)

Another of the highly experienced South American offi cials preparing for his Wolfgang Stark is an accomplished match offi cial whose career has gone from third FIFA World Cup assignment in 2010, and indeed the oldest of the 30 strength to strength. Soon after making his Bundesliga debut at the age of 28, selected referees, Carlos Simon has been offi ciating in Brazil’s top fl ight for he was promoted to the FIFA international list in 1999, and has since overseen more than 15 years and is also a familiar face at top-level tournaments around matches at the FIFA U-17 and U-20 World Cups as well as at the 2008 Men’s the world. During the preliminary competition for the 2002 FIFA World Cup Olympic Football Tournament in Beijing. He has also refereed at the top levels Korea/Japan, he oversaw qualifi ers organised by three different confederations: of European club competition, including four matches at Liverpool’s Anfi eld AFC, CONCACAF and, of course, CONMEBOL. In 2002 he made his debut stadium, which he remembers as being the best atmosphere he has ever at the FIFA World Cup proper, offi ciating two fi rst-round matches in Japan. experienced at a football ground. The son of a former German Bundesliga Four years later, his most high-profi le encounter at the 2006 FIFA World Cup assistant referee, Stark believes that the biggest challenge facing referees was the round of 16 encounter between Germany and Sweden. In 2009 he today is the speed at which football is evolving. He says that referees have to offi ciated two matches at the FIFA Club World Cup, including the semi-fi nal read the game, stay in control, remember that they are not alone and work between Atlante and Barcelona. Simon, who combines refereeing with a with both the players and fellow offi cials. career in journalism, believes that the biggest challenge facing referees today is the physical demands required by top-level football. Age: 38 Residence: London Age: 36 Profession: Referee Residence: Ansoain International Profession: Sociologist referee since: 2005 International Mother tongue: English referee since: 2004 Other languages: - Mother tongue: Spanish Hobbies: Family Other languages: English, French Assistants: Darren CANN (England) Hobbies: Tennis Howard WEBB Michael MULLARKEY (England) Assistants: Fermin MARTÍNEZ (Spain) (England) Alberto UNDIANO Juan Carlos YUSTE JIMENEZ (Spain) (Spain) Howard Webb refereed his fi rst games at the age of 18 before progressing through the ranks to oversee his fi rst Premier League match in 2003. Alberto Undiano refereed his fi rst match aged just 16 and ten seasons later International duties since then have included the FIFA U-20 World Cup Canada made his Primera División debut, setting a record as the youngest referee in 2007, where Webb presided over fi ve matches, and EURO 2008, where he Spain’s top league. He gained full international status in 2004 and has since covered two fi rst-round games. Last year, he took charge of the FA Cup fi nal overseen matches at two FIFA U-20 World Cups and the 2008 FIFA Club World between Chelsea and Everton, four FIFA U-17 World Cup 2009 matches, and Cup, along with UEFA Champions League and FIFA World Cup qualifying got a sneak preview of South Africa when he oversaw three matches at the matches. The Spaniard believes that the biggest challenge facing referees FIFA Confederations Cup. Just 20 days before the start of the 2010 FIFA World today is the pressure. Outside of football, he enjoys spending time with his Cup came another milestone when Webb was chosen to lead the 2010 UEFA family. Champions League fi nal. Football runs in Webb’s family as both his father and grandfather were involved in the sport – his grandfather played professional football in the English Football League and his father refereed at regional level. Webb believes that the biggest challenge facing referees today is being able to cope with the pressures placed upon referees in a world where every situation and decision is scrutinised in detail.

FIFA WORLD I FOCUS 155 SUMMARY

MEMBER ASSOCIATIONS

ASIA AFRICA NORTH & CENTRAL AMERICA AND CARIBBEAN

Defending champions Iraq will face their The Sports Medicine and Traumatology Pachuca became the first team from their neighbours from Iran along with Korea Department of the Clinique Chahrazed in region to qualify three times for the FIFA Club DPR and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Algiers, Algeria, is set to become Africa’s third World Cup when they saw off fellow Mexican in the group stage of the AFC Asian Cup FIFA Medical Centre of Excellence following outfit Cruz Azul to win the CONCACAF Qatar 2011, following an exciting draw in recent approval by world football’s governing Champions League in April. Guillermo Rivarola’s the Qatari capital Doha in April. “It is a very body. Headed by Dr Yacine Zerguini, a men fought their way back from a 2-1 first-leg interesting and unique draw,” reckoned Asian member of the FIFA Medical Assessment and defeat at the Estadio Azul, winning the return Football Confederation President Mohamed Research Centre (F-MARC) who also serves leg 1-0 thanks to a stoppage time strike from bin Hammam as he looked ahead to the on the FIFA and Confederation of African Edgar Benitez to triumph on the away goals tournament taking place from 7-29 January Football (CAF) medical committees, the centre rule. Pachuca’s victory made them the second next year. “All the groups are very well will join the Centre for Exercise Science and team to qualify for the FIFA Club World Cup and finely balanced. Iraq’s win in the 2007 Sports Medicine at Johannesburg’s University 2010, alongside Oceania representatives Hekari edition has reshaped Asian football like never of Witwatersrand and the University of Cape United (see OCEANIA). before.” Town’s UCT/MRC Research Unit for Exercise Science & Sports Medicine. The first FIFA AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2011 draw in full: Medical Centre of Excellence at the Schulthess Group A: Qatar, Kuwait, China and clinic in Zurich, headed by FIFA Chief Medical Uzbekistan Officer Prof. Jiri Dvorak, was inaugurated in Group B: Saudi Arabia, Japan, Jordan May 2005. The centres are designed to ensure and Syria that players on all continents know where to Group C: Korea Republic, India, Australia go for expert care in football medicine. All and Bahrain of the centres are established institutions in Group D: Iraq, Korea DPR, UAE and Iran. football medicine with long experience in working with players and teams.

CAF recently staged a successful referees instructors evaluation course at its headquarters in Cairo, Egypt, with 52 referee instructors taking part in the event. Held from 25-30 April, the course was designed to evaluate and improve the knowledge of instructors affiliated to CAF’s member associations. “I have gained much experience As part of its continuing efforts to develop which I will now pass on to my colleagues and promote football in the Commonwealth back home,” said Uganda’s Catherine Adipo of the Bahamas, the Bahamas Football The AFC has confirmed that it will hold an – one of nine female officials who attended Association (BFA) has made a donation of Extraordinary Congress in Johannesburg, the course. footballs to the Special Olympics Bahamas South Africa, on 8 June to consider, among organisation. Announcing the donation at a other matters, proposals for amendments or joint event on 23 April, BFA President Anton alterations to the current AFC Statutes. Taking Sealey said his administration was committed place three days before the start of the 2010 to supporting all football activities in the FIFA World Cup™, the main purpose of the Commonwealth and that further support Congress is to bring the AFC’s statutes fully for the Special Olympics movement would into line with those of FIFA. be provided in future.

www.the-afc.com www.cafonline.com www.concacaf.com

156 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 SOUTH AMERICA OCEANIA EUROPE

América de Cali striker Sergio Galván Rey Papua New Guinea club Hekari United The French Football Federation (FFF) has been became the most prolific goalscorer in the made football history in May when they working together with the country’s ministry history of the Colombian football league became the first team from the Pacific for health and sport and the French Red in April when he scored his 218th league Islands to qualify for the FIFA Club World Cross on a comprehensive first aid training goal during a 2-2 draw with Atlético Junior. Cup. Hekari claimed the OFC Champions programme, aimed at training one coach, Overlooked in his native Argentina, Rey was League title by beating New Zealand’s two- one player, one referee and one director spotted by a scout from Colombian side Once time Oceania champions Waitakere United from every club in France, whether amateur Caldas in 1994 and has since been banging 4-2 on aggregate, despite losing the second or professional. Motivated by that terrible in goals at a phenomenal rate, first for Caldas leg 2-1 in Auckland. “I want to dedicate our moment in June 2003 when Cameroon and then for Atlético Nacional before signing success to all the Pacific Island nations,” team international Marc-Vivien Foé suffered a for his current side at the start of this year. manageress Vonnie Eteaki Kapi-Natto said. fatal collapse in Lyons during his side’s FIFA Rey, who was given Colombian citizenship in “This will be good motivation for our young Confederations Cup match against Colombia, 2003, took just 547 matches to set the new people because they have seen that their the ambitious programme got under way record – scoring at a rate of 0.39 goals a game. brothers can compete and win at this level.” with a series of courses arranged for the “I never imagined being the top scorer in the FFF’s 295 referees. history of Colombian football,” the 36-year- The Oceania Football Confederation’s old said afterwards. “I just came to make new grassroots programme Just Play has The Italian Football Federation has launched the most of an opportunity, nothing more.” been launched with resounding success a new Vivo Azzurro supporters’ card which in Vanuatu and in South Auckland, New will be made available to fans of the national Zealand. Developed by the OFC and its team as of next season, with further plans partners to promote physical activity for already under way to run a similar scheme primary-aged children while encouraging at club level. The idea is primarily to reward community involvement and healthy living, fan loyalty by offering services and benefits the programme supports development in to card-holders, but the card will also play a local clubs, schools and associations and role in deterring troublemakers. Any person provides brand new equipment such as balls, who has been banned from attending sports cones, bibs, whistles and training manuals events or convicted of a crime in a stadium for the volunteer instructors. Just Play will in the previous five years will be ineligible be rolled out across the Pacific Islands over for a card the next three years and will involve more Buenos Aires has been included after all than 200,000 children, 4,000 teachers and among the venue cities for next year’s Copa volunteers and around 2,500 primary schools. América in Argentina. The capital had initially been left off the list but CONMEBOL’S executive committee confirmed in April that the tournament final would now be staged at the city’s River Plate stadium. The tournament will otherwise be spread around the country, with matches in Santa Fe, Cordoba, Jujuy, Salta, San Juan and Mendoza and the opening game in La Plata, around 60 kilometres south of Buenos Aires. Argentina will be chasing a record 15th South American championship title at the tournament, which they have not won on home soil since the 1959 edition.

www.conmebol.com www.oceaniafootball.com www.uefa.com

FIFA WORLD I SUMMARY 157 BRAZIL OUST SPAIN FROM TOP SPOT

Brazil ended the fi ve-month reign of Spain, (10th, down 2). Again, none of those teams reclaiming pole position and pushing the were in action during the month. European champions back into second place. Indeed, only fi ve matches were taken into The switch of positions was entirely due to the account for April’s edition, which was to be devaluation of points held by the two teams expected, given the proximity of the 2010 under the ranking’s four-year rolling system, FIFA World Cup South Africa™ and the fact with neither side playing a match during the that many national leagues and continental preceding month. Brazil’s ascent marked the championships are now entering the home seventh time that the Seleção have claimed straight. As a result, the international match top spot on the global ladder, a position that calendar does not have a reserved date for they have held for a total of 142 months since international matches in this period. the launch of the ranking in 1993. The May ranking is likely to see plenty Other moves of note in the top ten included of upheaval as it will include the fi rst batch Back on top: Kaká and Robinho celebrate Portugal’s climb from fourth to third place – of friendly matches being played in the during their 2-0 friendly win over the the highest-ever position for the Portuguese build-up to the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Due Republic of Ireland in March. – and Argentina’s jump from ninth spot to to be published on 26 May (after this issue There was a dramatic change at the top in seventh. Among the teams moving in the of FIFA World had gone to print), the ranking the April edition of the FIFA/Coca-Cola World other direction were the Netherlands (4th, can be accessed online via the magazine’s Ranking as record FIFA World Cup™ winners down 1), England (8th, down 1) and France web page: www.fi fa.com/fi faworld.

+/- Ranks +/- Ranks +/- Ranks Rank Team Mar-Apr Points +/- Points Rank Team Mar-Apr Points +/- Points Rank Team Mar-Apr Points +/- Points 2010 2010 2010 1Brazil +11611+22 33 Turkey +2 798 +28 65 Montenegro +4 500 +16 2Spain -11565-37 34 Colombia +5 777 +36 66 Saudi Arabia -4 495 -25 3Portugal +11249+35 35 Denmark -1 767 -11 67 Bolivia -16 491 -106 4Netherlands -11221-40 36 Ecuador 0 763 -2 68 Cyprus +2 488 +18 5Italy 0 1184+1 37 Sweden +3 757 +18 69 Bahrain -2 475 -26 6Germany 0 1107-50 38 Slovakia -5 742 -49 70 Morocco -2 469 -19 7Argentina +21084+9 39 Bulgaria -1 740 -24 71 El Salvador +3 452 +15 8 England -1 1068 -52 40 Honduras -4 727 -38 Zambia 0 452 0 9 Croatia +1 1052 +1 41 Gabon +2 707 0 73 Togo 0 438 0 10 France -2 1044 -33 42 Costa Rica 0 706 -11 74 Uganda 0 437 0 11 Russia +1 1003 - 6 43 Republic of Ireland +1 690 -14 75 Wales +2 429 +13 12 Greece -1 968 -64 44 Scotland -3 684 -48 76 Panama 0 421 -9 13 Egypt +1 967 0 45 Japan 0 674 -18 77 Senegal -5 414 -30 14 USA +2 950 +2 46 Latvia 0 652 -14 78 New Zealand +1 413 +4 15 Chile -2 948 -26 47 Korea Republic +2 619 -10 79 Jamaica -1 412 0 16 Serbia -1 944 -6 48 Lithuania +10 616 +46 80 Albania +3 406 +17 17 Mexico 0 936 +15 49 Finland +5 605 +17 81 Belarus -1 397 -7 18 Uruguay 0 902 0 Venezuela -1 605 -28 82 Iraq -1 394 0 19 Cameroon +1 887 0 51 Bosnia-Herzegovina -4 604 -38 Malawi -1 394 0 20 Australia -1 883 -15 52 Burkina Faso 0 589 0 84 Moldova +3 392 +19 Nigeria +2 883 0 53 Peru +7 579 +42 85 Angola +1 390 +10 22 Norway +2 879 +26 54 Mali +3 575 +2 China PR -1 390 +8 23 Slovenia +6 860 +50 55 Tunisia +1 574 0 87 Guinea -2 381 0 24 Israel +4 857 +46 56 Hungary -4 567 -22 Haiti +4 381 +19 25 Ukraine +1 855 +18 57 Northern Ireland -7 555 -73 89 Mozambique 0 378 +7 26 Switzerland -6 854 -33 58 Poland +1 552 -10 90 South Africa -2 369 -3 27 Côte d’Ivoire -2 846 0 59 Benin +2 531 0 91 Iceland -1 367 +3 28 Romania +4 843 +45 60 FYR Macedonia +5 521 +12 Trinidad and Tobago +2 367 +17 29 Czech Republic +1 827 +18 Iran +3 521 +3 93 Gambia -1 361 0 30 Paraguay -7 822 -33 62 Belgium +4 518 +12 94 Uzbekistan +1 354 +9 31 Algeria -4 821 0 63 Canada +1 516 0 95 Qatar +2 351 +9 32 Ghana -1 802 0 64 Austria -9 509 -73 96 Kuwait -2 348 0

158 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 +/- Ranks +/- Ranks +/- Ranks Rank Team Mar-Apr Points +/- Points Rank Team Mar-Apr Points +/- Points Rank Team Mar-Apr Points +/- Points 2010 2010 2010 97 Oman -1 346 +2 135 Barbados +2 157 0 173 Mauritius +3 40 0 98 Syria -1 342 0 Tajikistan -5 157 -19 174 Cayman Islands +3 39 0 99 Armenia +7 311 +19 137 Indonesia +1 153 -2 Laos +3 39 0 100 United Arab Emirates +2 310 +13 Turkmenistan -3 153 -10 Palestine -1 39 -6 101 Congo -2 308 -21 139 Hong Kong +1 150 0 Seychelles +1 39 -2 102 Libya -1 305 0 140 Suriname +1 147 0 Somalia +3 39 0 103 Jordan -1 301 +4 141 Equatorial Guinea +2 142 -3 179 Samoa +1 38 0 104 Estonia -4 296 -21 142 Myanmar -1 141 -6 180 Mongolia -8 36 -12 105 Thailand -1 294 0 143 Maldives -4 129 -22 181 Bahamas +1 34 0 106 Korea DPR -1 292 -1 144 Chad 0 128 0 Belize +1 34 0 107 Rwanda 0 269 0 145 Burundi 0 127 0 Cook Islands +1 34 0 108 Tanzania +1 259 0 146 New Caledonia 0 126 0 184 Dominica +1 33 0 109 Yemen -1 258 -4 147 Malaysia 0 123 0 185 Turks and Caicos Islands +1 32 0 110 Azerbaijan 0 257 0 148 Liechtenstein +3 117 +5 186 Tonga +1 28 0 111 Congo DR 0 253 0 149 Lesotho -1 115 -1 187 Dominican Republic +1 26 0 112 Namibia 0 251 +1 Madagascar +5 115 +5 188 Djibouti +2 23 0 113 Zimbabwe 0 248 0 151 St. Kitts and Nevis -2 113 0 189Guinea-Bissau +3 19 0 114 Kenya 0 243 0 152 Liberia +4 112 +6 St. Lucia +3 19 0 115 Guatemala 0 241 0 153 Vanuatu +2 108 0 Tahiti +3 19 0 116 Botswana 0 237 +1 154 Malta +4 103 +1 192 British Virgin Islands +3 18 0 117 Cape Verde Islands -1 236 0 155 Nicaragua +5 101 0 193 Afghanistan -2 17 -3 118 Vietnam +1 231 0 156 Sri Lanka +1 99 -4 Brunei Darussalam -4 17 -8 119 Antigua and Barbuda +1 217 0 157 Lebanon -8 98 -15 Guam +3 17 0 Georgia -1 217 -15 Netherlands Antilles +5 98 0 196 Macau -15 15 -21 121 Sudan 0 211 0 159 Eritrea +4 95 0 197 Aruba +1 11 0 122 Guyana 0 205 0 160 Bangladesh -2 94 -8 Bhutan -1 11 -6 123 Ethiopia 0 204 0 161 Kyrgyzstan -10 92 -20 199 US Virgin Islands 0 5 0 124 Grenada +4 198 +10 Nepal -1 92 -9 200Timor-Leste 040 125 Cuba 0 196 0 Niger +4 92 0 201Andorra 020 Faroe Islands 0 196 0 164 St. Vincent and the Grenadines +2 91 0 202 American Samoa 0 0 0 127 Luxembourg -3 193 -5 165 Mauritania +3 81 0 Anguilla 0 0 0 Singapore 0 193 0 166 Chinese Taipei -3 78 -17 Central African Republic 0 0 0 129 Kazakhstan 0 180 +3 Pakistan -13 78 -33 Montserrat 000 130 Fiji +1 167 0 168 Puerto Rico +1 76 0 Papua New Guinea 0 0 0 131 Swaziland +1 165 +1 169 Solomon Islands +1 60 0 San Marino 000 132 India 0 164 0 170 Philippines -3 55 -31 133 Sierra Leone +2 162 0 171 Cambodia 0 54 -2 Note: Teams inactive for more than four years 134 Bermuda +2 160 0 172 Comoros +2 43 0 do not appear in the table. WHAT COUNTS TOWARDS THE RANKING? The results of all matches at “A” international Ranking points are calculated on the basis of the results a team has recorded in the previous level are taken into account by the World the following criteria: 12 months are the most important. Results Ranking. These matches include: • Points for a win, draw or defeat from previous years are also taken into account, • FIFA World Cup™ fi nal competition matches • Type of competition (multiplication factor) but their value decreases on an annual basis • FIFA World Cup™ qualifying competition • Strength of opponents (multiplication until four years after the match was played matches factor) (100% of ranking points for matches in last • Continental championship fi nal • Strength of confederation in question 12 months, 50% for matches played 12 – 24 competition matches (multiplication factor) months previously, 30% for 24 – 36 months • Continental championship qualifying and 20% for 36 – 48 months) at which point competition matches To ensure that the FIFA / Coca-Cola World the result no longer has any impact on the • Friendly matches Ranking refl ects the reality of world football, ranking.

FIFA CALENDAR JUNE-JULY 2010

6-7 June FIFA Executive Committee meeting, Johannesburg 8 June Confederation meetings/Congresses 10 June 60th FIFA Congress, Johannesburg 11 June – 11 July 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ 13 July-1 August FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Germany 2010

The USA will be back to defend their title at July’s FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup.

FIFA WORLD I SUMMARY 159 FIFA ARCHIVE SS CONTE VERDE, ATLANTIC OCEAN 19 JUNE TO 5 JULY 1930

While teams and fans from South America, Europe, Asia and the rest of the world are now making their way to South Africa by plane, Europe’s footballing pioneers set forth for the fi rst FIFA World Cup™ in Uruguay in 1930 by ship. With some 11,000 kilometres separating Uruguay from Europe, the journey to South America for the 1930 FIFA World Cup was a major logistical undertaking for the European participants. Nowadays it is possible to fl y there directly in around 12 hours, but in those days the only way of reaching Montevideo without getting your feet (too) wet was to cross the high seas. And so it was in 1930 that teams from Romania, Belgium and France, accompanied by a FIFA delegation led by President Jules Rimet, set off on the luxury Italian liner Conte Verde. The journey, just short of three weeks long, took them from Genoa to Montevideo via Villefranche-sur-Mer, Barcelona and Rio de Janeiro, where they were joined on the passenger list by the Brazilians. Also joining them on board, safely stowed in the ship’s safe, was the brand-new World Cup Trophy, later to be named the Jules Rimet Trophy. There are surely better ways for a football team to prepare for a World Cup than to spend three weeks amid what were at times choppy seas, but there could be no denying the pleasures offered by the Conte Verde, and in particular its galley. Many a player is said to have disembarked in Montevideo carrying a few extra pounds. The Atlantic crossing thus posed a formidable challenge for the teams’ coaches, who not only had to keep an eye on player discipline, but also ensure the fi tness of their charges. Due to the lack of room on board the ocean steam ship, creative thinking was required to organise training sessions, as exercises with the ball were of course almost impossible. While the French team tried to maintain their fi tness with jumping exercises over the ship’s deck apparatus, the Romanians attempted to stay in shape with strictly monitored gymnastics, as our picture shows. These ultimately failed to have the required effect, however, as Romania, France and Belgium were sent packing after the group stage of this fi rst edition of the tournament. With the fi nals in South Africa about to kick off, let us hope that the Icelandic volcano Eyjafjallajökull remains dormant and there is no repeat of Europe’s airspace shutdown. With 9,000 kilometres lying between the Old Continent and the Cape of Good Hope by land or sea, it is unlikely that the tournament would see a European winner in such a case!

160 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 FIFA WORLD I SUMMARY 161 COMING UP In the August issue of FIFA World

AND THE WINNER IS… OUR FULL REVIEW OF THE 2010 FIFA WORLD CUP™ CELEBRATING HOPE FOOTBALL FOR HOPE GETS FESTIVE “MY 2010” PERSONAL HIGHLIGHTS FROM WORLD FOOTBALL’S BIGGEST EVENT

Publication date: 30 July 2010

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162 FIFA WORLD I JUNE/JULY 2010 For 31 days we’ll come together to stand apart.

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