Saturday 5th December 2009
World Cup fixtures to look out for
The eight groups for the 2010 World Cup finals are out but what are the matches to look out for?
Eugene YS Han takes a brief look at some of the more mouth-watering fixtures conjured from the draw on Friday.
11th June
Group A: South Africa vs Mexico
There may be a lack of superstars between these two countries but the whole world will be watching as South Africa and Mexico kickstart the 19th edition of the World Cup 2010. And as all opening matches go, there will definitely be fireworks and drama in store for the football fans.
12th June
Group B: Argentina vs Nigeria
Argentina should have no problems against Nigeria but then again you never know with Diego Maradona in charge. This will be his first World Cup finals game in charge and he might spring a surprise selection. The Super Eagles who have a poor record against Argentina (they have been beaten twice in finals meetings in 1994 and 2002) will want to break their losing streak against the South Americans.
Group C: England vs USA
This is a fixture that England must win and one USA have nothing to lose. The all-round interest will definitely be heighten if, as expected, David Beckham gets a call-up. By the time this tournament is over, Landon Donovan may have another book ready for publication.
13th June
Group D: Germany vs Australia
This match could decide which country tops this group. Germany will not relish a physical battle so early in the tournament against the burly Australians who impressed in the 2006 finals in Germany.
15th June
Group G: Cote d'Ivoire vs Portugal
This is a potential humdinger of a match that kick-starts the 'Group of Death'. And just consider the stars on show: Didier Drogba, Kolo Toure, Deco and of course Cristiano Ronaldo. No team will be pulling their punches as defeat here may have serious consequences later in their campaigns.
17th June
Group A: France vs Mexico
Flair and skillful play will be in abundance in Polokwane as France face arguably their biggest rival in their group. Mexico, who have rediscovered their form under Javier Aguirre, will be no pushovers for the 1998 World Cup champions.
20th June
Group G: Brazil vs Cote d'Ivoire
This will be Brazilian's first serious test in South Africa - and it doesn't come bigger than Ivory Coast. The Ivorians are touted to be hot favourites to be the first World Cup champions from Africa and Brazil will provide the best gauge of their potential.
24th June
Group E: Cameroon vs Netherlands
This group may be decided by the time both sides meet in Durban but it is important that a team maintain their winning momentum going into the next round.
25th June
Group G: Portugal vs Brazil
Depending on results elsewhere, this could be a dead rubber of a match. But there's still a possibility of seeing world-class stars on show. Cristiano Ronaldo will be up against his club-mate Kaka while Nani may meet his United teammate Anderson.
For the full schedule of the 2010 World Cup Finals, click here
* Which is the fixture to look out for? Send in you comments to streettalk@espnstar.com
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