RSS Feed
Twitter
Group B
Flag of Argentina
Argentina
Flag of Nigeria
Nigeria
Flag of South Korea
South Korea
Flag of Greece
Greece
Group B Teams PL W L D GF GA -/+ Pts
Flag of
Argentina 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Flag of
Nigeria 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Flag of
South Korea 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Flag of
Greece 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
- Matches
Sat, Jun 12 (Group B)
7:30am EDT
Flag of
South Korea
vs
Flag of
Greece
Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium
Port Elizabeth
Thu, Jun 17 (Group B)
10:00am EDT
Flag of
Greece
vs
Flag of
Nigeria
Free State Stadium
Bloemfontein
Tue, Jun 22 (Group B)
2:30pm EDT
Flag of
Greece
vs
Flag of
Argentina
Peter Mokaba Stadium
Polokwane
- Saturday June 12, 2010
(4)
7:30am EDT
Flag of
South Korea
vs
Flag of
Greece
Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium
Port Elizabeth
(3)
10:00am EDT
Flag of
Argentina
vs
Flag of
Nigeria
Ellis Park
Johannesburg
Thursday June 17, 2010
(20)
7:30am EDT
Flag of
Argentina
vs
Flag of
South Korea
Soccer City
Johannesburg
(19)
10:00am EDT
Flag of
Greece
vs
Flag of
Nigeria
Free State Stadium
Bloemfontein
Tuesday June 22, 2010
(35)
2:30pm EDT
Flag of
Nigeria
vs
Flag of
South Korea
Moses Mabhida Stadium
Durban
(36)
2:30pm EDT
Flag of
Greece
vs
Flag of
Argentina
Peter Mokaba Stadium
Polokwane - Nigeria
Work in progress
There's no doubt about the striking potential of Yakubu Aiyegbeni (L) and Obafemi Martins. Whether or not a new coach and the rest of the Nigerian squad can back them up is another story altogether
World-Coaching change makes life hard for Nigeria
ABUJA, May 18 (Reuters) - With arguably the best draw of the six African nations at the World Cup, Nigeria should have high hopes of progressing into the second round.
A change of coach only months before the finals in South Africa, however, disrupted preparations for the Super Eagles and the incoming Lars Lagerback had little time to get to know his squad.
Lagerback, who took his native Sweden to the last two World Cups, has been charged with giving Nigeria back a winning edge, something that was missing at their last tournament, the African Nations Cup finals in January in Angola.
There they limped along, devoid of confidence and disjointed in their approach. It took several turns of good fortune for them to reach the semi-finals but they never looked potential winners.
When they went home with bronze medals, coach Shaibu Amodu was fired.
Nigeria have advanced past the opening group stage twice in their three previous World Cup finals appearances, evidence of the potential of Africa's most populous nation.
This time they are drawn in Group B, where Argentina are the favourites but both Greece and South Korea are seen as beatable.
Nigeria demolished the Greeks in the United States in 1994 when both countries were making their maiden World Cup finals appearance.
Nigeria have been unable to find anyone to successfully fill the midfield playmaking role previously occupied by Jay-Jay Okocha and Sunday Oliseh.
The current squad have an excess of defensively-minded, ball-winning, holding midfielders but none who have the ability to dictate the pace of the game from behind the forward line, spray incisive passes and set up clever opportunities.
This leaves the formidable strike pairing of Yakubu Aiyegbeni and Obafemi Martins without the service to match their ability. Nigeria does have strong attacking players on the flanks to unlock defences and a tough defensive unit, albeit prone to the occasional extravagant gaffe.
Fullback Taye Taiwo, who lost his place during the Nations Cup but is still expected to be a starter for Nigeria's opener against Argentina on June 12, has a formidable shot that is most effective at free kicks. (Writing by Mark Gleeson in Johannesburg; Editing by Clare Fallon; To query or comment on this story email sportsfeedback@thomsonreuters.com)
Nigeria facts: Learn more about the team
World-Factbox on Nigeria
May 18 (Reuters) - Factbox on Nigeria who are competing in Group B at the World Cup in South Africa:
Colours: Green shirts, socks and shorts, all with white trim
Nickname: Super Eagles
Previous World Cup appearances: 3: 1994, 1998, 2002
Best World Cup performance: Reached the second round in 1994 and 1998
Coach: Lars Lagerback
Most capped player: Nwankwo Kanu 83
Top goalscorer: Rashidi Yekini 37
Talking points:
Nigeria changed their coach yet again at the end of February, giving the new incumbent, Swede Lagerback, little time to prepare for the World Cup. His predecessor, Shaibu Amodu, was sacked after the team lost to Ghana in the African Nations Cup semi-finals. The same fate befell Amodu in 2002 when he was fired months before the World Cup and replaced by Festus Onigbinde.
Nigeria have always been a country of much potential but the kneejerk reaction of officials to setbacks means there is little chance to build continuity.
Players to watch:
A powerful strike force gives Nigeria fearsome potential with Yakubu Aiyegbeni and Obafemi Martins having the potential to unlock any defence, and they are supplemented by the wing play of Chinedu Obasi and Peter Odemwingie.
John Obi Mikel should recover from injury in time and be the key midfielder, although Nigeria make him push too far forward where his lack of pace and incisive passing counts against him. (Compiled by Mark Gleeson in Johannesburg; Editing by Clare Fallon; To query or comment on this story email sportsfeedback@thomsonreuters.com)
World-Penpix of Nigeria squad
ABUJA, May 18 (Reuters) - Penpix of Nigeria's preliminary, 30-man squad for the World Cup in South Africa:
Dele Aiyegnugba (Bnei Yehuda). Goalkeeper. Born Nov. 20 1983. Caps 8. Goals 0.
Back-up keeper who helped his previous club Enyimba to win the African Champions League title in a post-match penalty shootout. Played in UEFA's Europa League this season.
Austin Ejide (Hapoel Petach Tikva). Goalkeeper. Born April 8 1982. Caps 18. Goals 0.
One of three Nigerian goalkeepers based in Israel, where he moved from French club Bastia and where he has played only two matches this season. His last appearance for Nigeria was against Ireland in London last year.
Vincent Enyeama (Hapoel Tel Aviv). Goalkeeper. Born Aug. 29 1982. Caps 53. Goals 0.
Long-standing first choice who has played at four successive African Nations Cup finals and was in goal against England at the 2002 World Cup. Moved from Nigerian champions Enyimba in 2005 and named best player in the Israeli league last year.
Akpan Bassey (Bayelsa United). Goalkeeper. Born Goalkeeper. Born Jan. 6 1984. Caps: 1 Goals: 0
Has played all of five minutes of international football, coming on as a substitute at the end of Nigeria's friendly at home to the Democratic Republic of Congo in March. Has played for Nigeria at under-17, under-20 and under-23 level and competed in the African Champions League at club level.
Dele Adelaye (Sparta Rotterdam). Defender. Born Dec. 25 1988. Caps 5. Goals 0.
Central defender who graduated to the senior side from Nigeria's under-20 team that finished runners-up at the World Youth Championship in 2005. Was banned for five matches in the Dutch league this season for elbowing an opponent.
Rabiu Afolabi (Red Bull Salzburg). Defender. Born April 18 1980. Caps 14. Goals 0.
Won recall from new coach Lars Lagerback after not featuring for the last two years. Won Austrian titlewinners' medal this season after previously playing in Belgium, France and Germany.
Onyekachi Apam (Nice). Defender. Born March 14 1977. Caps 15. Goals 0.
Nigeria play Apam at right-back but he prefers to play in centre of defence. Played for Nigeria's under-23 team at the 2008 Olympics and was also a regular in World Cup qualifiers. Has told reporters he is seeking a post-Cup transfer.
Elderson Echiejile (Stade Rennes). Defender. Born Jan. 20 1988. Caps 10. Goals 0.
Started career at a Nigerian football academy aged 11 and played at the under-20 World Cup in Canada in 2007. That led to his signing by Rennes, for whom he played in last season's French Cup final. He will battle Taiwo for the left-back berth.
Chidi Odiah (CSKA Moscow). Defender. Born Dec. 17 1983. Caps 23. Goals 1.
Wingback who has been perennial squad member but rarely in the starting line-up of late. Member of the Russian club's team which won the UEFA Cup five years ago.
Danny Shittu (Bolton Wanderers). Defender. Born Sept. 2 1980. Caps 25. Goals 0.
Born in Lagos but raised in Britain, he started his career at Charlton. Unusually, when he moved to Queens Park Rangers, a fan paid his 350,000-pound ($510,000) transfer fee and his wages in the first year of his contract on behalf of the club.
Taye Taiwo (Olympique Marseille). Defender. Born April 16 1985. Caps 40. Goals 4.
Lost his place in the Nigeria side in January but helped Marseille to win the title in France. He was the Nigeria set-piece specialist with a thunderous shot and will go to the World Cup with experience from Nations Cup, Champions League and UEFA Cup.
Joseph Yobo (Everton). Defender. Born Sept. 6 1980. Caps 65. Goals: 3.
Likely to captain the team at the World Cup because Nwankwo Kanu will not make the starting line-up. Strong central defender who is the commander of the back four but prone to the occasional gaffe. His season has been blighted by injury.
Peter Terna Suswan (Lobi Stars). Defender. Born Sept. 5 1991. Caps: 0. Goals: 0.
Teenage defender who is one of just two home-based players named in Nigeria's preliminary squad for the World Cup. Hails from the capital Abuja.
Yusuf Ayila (Dynamo Kiev). Midfielder. Born Nov. 4 1982. Caps 24. Goals 2.
Among a phalanx of defensive midfielders in the squad. Unusually for an African footballer, has spent seven seasons in eastern Europe where he has experienced regular Champions League action with his Ukrainian side.
Dickson Etuhu (Fulham). Midfielder. Born: June 8 1982. Caps 12. Goals 0.
Hard-working midfielder with a reputation for athletic prowess and raw power but lacks the finesse of many of his team mates. Came back from injury to help his London club reach this year's Europa League final.
Sani Kaita (Alania Vladikavhaz). Midfielder. Born: May 2 1986. Caps 19. Goals 0.
Captain of the Nigerian under-20 side that finished runners-up at the 2005 World Youth Championship. On loan at his third Russian club in three years from French club Monaco.
Nwankwo Kanu (Portsmouth). Midfielder. Born Aug. 1 1976. Caps 83. Goals 13.
Nigeria's most capped international and one of a handful of Africans to have won a Champions League winners' medal, with Ajax Amsterdam. As a teenager he narrowly missed out on selection for the 1994 World Cup but played in the next two editions. His gangly style and close ball skills delight fans but Nigeria rarely use him as more than a late substitute.
Haruna Lukman (Monaco). Midfielder. Born April 12 1990. Caps 2. Goals 0.
Back in the squad after breaking into the Monaco first team this season. He had been in the squad for the 2008 African Nations Cup finals but did not feature in any of the 2010 World Cup qualifiers.
John Obi Mikel (Chelsea). Midfielder. Born April 22 1987. Caps 30. Goals 2.
He is used in a more attacking role by his country who do not have a playmaker. As a result, Obi Mikel battles to have the same impact for country as he has as a crunching midfielder for his London club. His real name is John Obinna but the Obi Mikel tag has stuck since the Nigeria Football Association botched his paperwork ahead of a FIFA youth tournament.
Kalu Uche (Almeria). Midfielder. Born Nov. 15 1982. Caps 20. Goals 2.
Elder of two brothers in the squad, he has had spells in Poland, France and now Spain. Leading goal scorer for his club this season with goals that helped Almeria to avoid relegation.
Ike Uche (Real Zaragoza). Midfielder. Born Jan. 5 1984. Caps 23. Goals 6.
Scored four goals in 10 World Cup qualifiers and was one of Nigeria's more consistent performers. Has battled injury this season, making his comeback in late April after more than seven months out with an anterior cruciate ligament injury.
Yakubu Aiyegbeni (Everton). Forward. Born Nov. 22 1982. Caps 48. Goals 19.
Main striker who has good goal ratio for his country but also a reputation for horror misses in Nigerian colours. Made his mark in the UEFA Champions League with Maccabi Haifa before moving to England. Nigeria sent him home from the 2004 Nations Cup after he broke a curfew.
Victor Anichebe (Everton). Forward. Born April 23 1986. Caps 4. Goals 0.
Made a comeback late this season after being sidelined for almost a year with a knee problem. Nigeria won a tug-of-war with England after he was courted by the English under-21 side.
Ideye Brown (Sochaux). Forward. Born Oct. 10 1988. Caps 0. Goals 0.
Scored 12 goals in the first half of the season at Neuchatel Xamax, earning a move in January to France's Ligue 1. He is regarded as a bright international prospect by Nigeria.
Obafemi Martins (VfL Wolfsburg). Forward. Born Oct. 28 1984. Caps 31. Goals 16.
"Obagoal" averages a goal every second game for the Super Eagles but still has not made a consistent impact for his country. Got the vital away goal against Kenya in the final qualifier. His first Bundesliga season, after moving from Newcastle, delivered six goals.
Victor Obinna (Malaga). Forward. Born March 25 1987. Caps 30. Goals 8.
Exciting talent who has scored vital goals for his country after winning almost all of his caps as an impact substitute. Has played at three successive Nations Cup finals and was loaned by Inter Milan to Malaga this season.
Chinedu Obasi (Hoffenheim). Forward. Born June 1 1986. Caps 12. Goals 1.
Right wing who debuted for Nigeria with John Obi Mikel, then disappeared off the radar before helping Hoffenheim's dream campaign last season. He was a last-minute addition to the Nations Cup squad in January and played in every match.
Peter Odemwingie (Lokomotiv Moscow). Forward. Born July 15 1981. Caps 47. Goals 8.
Soviet-born right-winger, whose father went to study medicine in Tashkent and married a Russian woman. Odemwingie's family had moved back in Nigeria when his professional career started and he played for clubs in Romania, Belgium and France before moving to Lokomotiv Moscow in 2007.
Peter Utaka (Odense BK). Forward. Born Feb. 12 1984. Caps 1. Goals 1.
Netted a goal on his debut in a friendly against the Democratic Republic of Congo in March, when he won a belated call-up after scoring liberally in the Danish league this season. Younger brother of Portsmouth winger John Utaka. (Compiled by Mark Gleeson; Editing by Robert Woodward; To query or comment on this story email sportsfeedback@thomsonreuters.com)
Please double-click on the newslink:
[WCUP-LEN] for more World Cup stories ($1=.6859 Pound)
Road to South Africa: How Nigeria qualified
World-Nigeria's route to the World Cup finals
May 18 (Reuters) - Nigeria's route to the World Cup finals
in South Africa from June 11 to July 11:.
R2: African qualifying round two, R3: Round three
HOW THEY QUALIFIED
African Group Four - Round Two
P W D L F A Pts
NIGERIA * 6 6 0 0 11 1 18
South Africa 6 2 1 3 5 5 7
Sierra Leone 6 2 1 3 4 8 7
Guinea 6 1 0 5 4 10 3
* Qualified for Round Three
(South Africa qualified as host nation)
African Group B - Round Three
P W D L F A Pts
NIGERIA * 6 3 3 0 9 4 12
Tunisia 6 3 2 1 7 4 11
Mozambique 6 2 1 3 3 5 7
Kenya 6 1 0 5 5 11 3
* Qualified for the 2010 FIFA World Cup
RESULTS
R2 01.06.08
Nigeria 2 South Africa 0
In Abuja
Scorers: Ikechukwu Uche 10, Obinna Nwaneri 44
- -
R2 07.06.08
Sierra Leone 0 Nigeria 1
In Freetown
Scorer: Joseph Yobo 89
- -
15.06.08
R2 Guinea 0 Nigeria 1
In Malabo
Scorer: Joseph Yobo 5
- -
R2 21.06.08
Nigeria 2 Guinea 0
In Abuja
Scorers: Yakubu Aiyegbeni 45, Ikechukwu Uche 84
- -
R2 06.09.08
South Africa 0 Nigeria 1
In Port Elizabeth
Scorer: Ikechukwu Uche 69
- -
11.10.08
R2 Nigeria 4 Sierra Leone 1
In Abuja
Scorers:
Nigeria: Chris Obodo 20, Victor Obinna 34, Peter Odemwingie
45, Chidi Odiah 50
Sierra Leone: Joseph Yobo 31og
- -
R3 29.03.09
Mozambique 0 Nigeria 0
In Maputo
- -
R3 07.06.09
Nigeria 3 Kenya 0
In Abuja
Scorers: Ikechukwu Uche 2, Victor Obinna 72pen,77
- -
R3 20.06.09
Tunisia 0 Nigeria 0
In Rades
- -
R3 06.09.09
Nigeria 2 Tunisia 2
In Abuja
Scorers:
Nigeria: Peter Odemwingie 23, Michael Eneramo 80
Tunisia: Sliti Nabil 24, Oussama Darragi 89
- -
R3 11.10.09
Nigeria 1 Mozambique 0
In Abuja
Scorer: Victor Obinna 90+3
- -
R3 14.11.09
Kenya 2 Nigeria 3
In Nairobi
Scorers:
Kenya: Dennis Oliech 15, Allan Wetende 77
Nigeria: Obafemi Martins 60, 81, Yakubu Aiyegbeni 64
- - - -
(Compiled by Neil Maidment; To query or comment on this
story email sportsfeedback@thomsonreuters.com)
Argentina
Group B
Big outlook
Diego Maradona isn't concerned about Argentina's erratic play during qualifying. In fact, the coach believes his team enters the Cup with greater potential than the one that won the title in '86
World-Maradona's Argentina have much to prove
By Rex Gowar
BUENOS AIRES, May 18 (Reuters) - Argentina's path to the 1986 World Cup in Mexico was littered with obstacles yet, led by a genius called Diego Maradona, they built a title-winning side over the course of the tournament.
In 2002, Argentina travelled to Asia as overwhelming favourites after a brilliant qualifying campaign but they flopped in Japan and left without getting out of their group.
Maradona, now their coach, likes to say that the path to South Africa is similar to the one that led to glory in Mexico and that he prefers to go as underdogs.
He believes he has the players to go all the way and help him become the second man to have captained and coached his country to the world title after the former West Germany's Franz Beckenbauer.
"I'm confident, otherwise I wouldn't be here (in charge)," Maradona told a television chat show hostess recently.
"Despite everything, I'm still here standing firm, we have a very good future," added Maradona, whose team's erratic qualifying campaign had fans and media fearing the worst.
Maradona says Argentina are going to South Africa with much greater potential than they had in Mexico in 1986, the second and last time they won the title.
What he has to prove in the finals, where they are drawn in Group B with Nigeria, South Korea and Greece, is that he can mould a fine generation of players into the team that failed to materialise during the qualifiers and only just scraped through.
Maradona's side have since lost 2-1 away to Spain in a friendly in Madrid in November, playing poorly. He evidently decided that far back to discard players such as Esteban Cambiasso and Fernando Gago, highly regarded in Europe, from the provisional World Cup squad of 30 he named this month.
A 1-0 win away to Germany in March gave him the certainty that he would start the World Cup with a back four made up of four central defenders.
In front of them, he has captain Javier Mascherano and Juan Sebastian Veron in the middle with Jonas Gutierrez and Angel Di Maria on the wings.
He believes that is the framework in which to allow Lionel Messi and his strike partner Gonzalo "Pipa" Higuain, or Carlos Tevez, to flourish.
"It's clear to me there is no national team in the world with a Beckenbauer who would come out (of defence) playing and opened up the game with his head always high, except Lucio of Brazil, of course," Maradona said.
"I ask Lio and Pipa to conserve their energy to attack our rivals and that Lio should never stay still...Messi is impossible to stop because he's so fast." (Editing by Clare Fallon; To query or comment on this story email sportsfeedback@thomsonreuters.com)
World-Factbox on Argentina
May 18 (Reuters) - Factbox on Argentina who are competing in Group B at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa:
Colours: Light blue and white striped shirt, black shorts, white or black socks.
Nickname: La albiceleste (the white and light blue)
Previous World Cup appearances - 14: 1930, 1934, 1958, 1962, 1966, 1974, 1978, 1982, 1986, 1990, 1994, 1998, 2002, 2006
Best World Cup performance: Winners 1978, 1986
Coach: Diego Maradona
Most capped player: Javier Zanetti 136
Top goalscorer: Gabriel Batistuta 56
Talking points:
Maradona's lack of coaching experience and Lionel Messi's failure to reproduce his Barcelona form for his country were major topics of discussion throughout last year's qualifiers. Argentina have a major share of the European game's leading scorers but there are questions marks about the midfield and, in particular, what happens if the 35-year-old Juan Sebastian Veron is injured. Maradona seems set on playing four central defenders across the back, begging the question whether they are vulnerable to attacks from wide out.
Players to watch:
Those capable of a match-winning performance -- Lionel Messi, Carlos Tevez, Gonzalo Higuain, Juan Sebastian Veron, Angel Di Maria, all in brilliant form for their clubs. The leading players could carry them through but it will be a rollercoaster ride and their prospects are as unpredictable as their temperamental coach. (Compiled by Rex Gowar; Editing by Robert Woodward; To query or comment on this story email sportsfeedback@thomsonreuters.com)
World-Penpix of Argentina squad
BUENOS AIRES, May 18 (Reuters) - Penpix of Argentina's 30-man provisional squad for the World Cup in South Africa:
Sergio Romero (AZ Alkmaar). Goalkeeper. Born Feb. 22 1987. Caps: 5.
Big man, 1.92 metres tall, who caught coach Diego Maradona's eye at the Beijing Olympics where he helped Argentina to win a second successive gold medal but he earned the number one slot only in the qualifiers against Paraguay in September. Commanding in the air and good at closing down the options when one-on-one with an attacker.
Mariano Andujar (Catania). Goalkeeper. Born July 30 1983. Caps: 4.
Helped Estudiantes de La Plata win the Libertadores Cup last year, setting a tournament record of 800 minutes without conceding a goal before earning a move to Italy's Serie A. Good in the air and on his line but lost Maradona's faith in the 3-1 defeat by Brazil in Rosario, coming out poorly for the third goal scored by Luis Fabiano.
Diego Pozo (Colon de Santa Fe). Goalkeeper. Born Feb. 16 1978. Caps: 3.
A veteran who earned his international chance last year thanks to Maradona's penchant for an ever-changing home-based squad. Agile, quick off his line, very good at defending long-range shots.
Nicolas Otamendi (Velez Sarsfield). Defender. Born Feb. 12 1988. Caps: 6.
The best discovery in the home-based squad, he could start the World Cup on the right of a back four made up of four central defenders and could struggle if faced with a nippy left wing. Good ball control on the ground, strong in the air in defence and when attacking at corners and free kicks.
Martin Demichelis (Bayern Munich). Defender. Born Dec. 20 1980. Caps: 25. Goals: 1.
Helped his club to reach the Champions League final despite an early return from a serious facial injury. Caught the eye as a talented teenager at River Plate. Good coming forward out of defence, he has also played as a defensive midfielder. Went into a depression when he was discarded at the last minute for the 2006 finals in Germany by coach Jose Pekerman.
Walter Samuel (Inter Milan). Defender. Born March 23 1978. Caps: 54. Goals: 4.
A veteran of Argentina's failure at the 2002 World Cup, he missed out on the 2006 finals and has won only one cap under Maradona but impressive displays this season for Inter by the man nicknamed "The Wall" when he was at AS Roma have earned him a recall. Good header at both ends of the field, he has scored crucial goals for his club.
Gabriel Heinze (Olympique Marseille). Defender. Born April 19 1978. Caps: 63. Goals: 2.
"El Gringo" is one of the least popular choices among Argentine fans and media who see him as a liability in defence but he is loved by Maradona who sees this committed, never-say-die player as epitomising the kind he wants in Argentina's colours.
Nicolas Burdisso (Inter Milan). Defender. Born April 12 1981. Caps: 28. Goals: 2.
Former Boca Juniors central defender who can also perform well on the flanks and would make a good reserve for any of the back four, he has good control and is a fine header.
Fabricio Coloccini (Newcastle United). Defender. Born Jan. 22 1982. Caps: 33. Goals: 1.
Strong, impulsive centre back who has settled in at Newcastle helping them to return to the Premier League after a season in the second tier. Comes forward well, he is a veteran of the 2006 finals where he played as a right back in two matches after helping Argentina to win the 2001 World Youth Cup and the 2004 Olympic gold medal.
Clemente Rodriguez (Estudiantes de La Plata). Defender. Born July 31 1981. Caps: 11.
Twice a Libertadores cup winner with Boca Juniors, his small number of caps span many years, including a spell out of the Argentine public eye at CSKA Moscow, and his recent call-ups by Maradona are the result of fine performances for his team at the Club World Cup in December and the Clausura this year. Strong runner who can play on either flank and gets into scoring positions.
Ariel Garce (Colon). Defender. Born July 14 1979. Caps: 3.
Versatile player who first made his name at River Plate as a right back and won two caps under Marcelo Bielsa in 2003. A central defender for his club, he is good coming forward, which earned him a recall after seven years for the May friendly against Haiti. Failed a doping test in 2005 playing for modest provincial side Olimpo and served a six-month suspension.
Juan Insaurralde (Newell's Old Boys). Defender. Born Oct. 3 1984. Caps: 2.
Centre back with good heading skills in defence and attack who secured his inclusion in the 4-0 friendly win over Haiti in May. Helped his club to pick up most points this season in the Argentine league although they did not win either title, running Banfield close in the Apertura in December.
Javier Mascherano (Liverpool). Midfielder. Born June 8 1984. Caps: 56. Goals: 2.
The "Little chief" is the key player for Maradona, who named him captain at the beginning of his tenure saying the team was "Masche" and 10 others. A fine ball winner and distributor with good positional sense who lost his way somewhat, along with most of his team Argentina mates, in last year's qualifiers as Maradona floundered with tactical issues.
Mario Bolatti (Fiorentina). Midfielder. Born Feb. 17 1985. Caps: 4. Goals: 1.
Regarded as the best player of last season's Clausura championship playing for runners-up Huracan under attack-minded coach Angel Cappa. An elegant box-to-box midfielder who scored the goal that sent Argentina to South Africa with a 1-0 win over Uruguay in their last qualifier in Montevideo.
Juan Mercier (Argentinos Juniors). Midfielder. Born Feb. 2 1980. Caps: 3.
Late developer who played in the Argentine second tier Nacional B division until he was 27 when he joined his present club. Fine all-round central midfielder in the mould of Esteban Cambiasso, who was overlooked by Maradona. Played a major part in his club's bid to win the Argentine Clausura championship.
Jonas Gutierrez (Newcastle United). Midfielder. Born July 5 1983. Caps: 15. Goals: 1.
Lanky right winger nicknamed "Galgo" (greyhound) for his long-stride running up and down the flank and "Spiderman" for donning a mask to celebrate his goals. Helped his club to gain promotion back to the Premier League at the first attempt after being reassured by Maradona he would not cease to be in Argentina's plans if he remained in the second tier of the English game.
Juan Sebastian Veron, (Estudiantes de La Plata). Midfielder. Born March 9 1975. Caps: 69. Goals: 9.
A dynamic attacking midfielder in his younger years, the "Little Witch" (son of the original "Witch" Juan Ramon Veron) has withdrawn into a deeper but no less influential position where he is noted for his accurate passes, layoffs and long balls to change the direction of attacks. Has a dangerous right foot at set pieces. Showed character to win back fans after being made a scapegoat for Argentina's failure in 2002 in Japan where, as a Manchester United player, he was perceived as lacking commitment in the defeat by England.
Angel Di Maria (Benfica). Midfielder. Born Feb. 14 1988. Caps: 7.
One of the biggest recent finds in Argentine football, having helped the under-20s to win the 2007 World Youth Cup in Canada, and a leading player in the Portuguese league. A dynamic left winger, very hard to stop, who scores goals and lays them on for fellow attackers in abundance.
Javier Pastore (Palermo). Midfielder. Born June 20 1989. Caps: 0.
Lanky player nicknamed "Huesito" (little bone). Another member of the impressive Cappa side at Huracan last year, earning a move to Italy, he is a creative midfielder who could be the closest to a stand-in for Veron. Was called up for the friendly against Germany in March but has not yet made his official debut having played and scored against Johan Cruyff's Catalunya in December.
Sebastian Blanco (Lanus). Midfielder. Born March 15 1988. Caps: 2. Goal: 1.
Played for Maradona's home-based team in friendlies against relatively weak opposition having impressed in the league and Libertadores Cup with his club. Is good with free kicks and long-range shots. More of a prospect for the future beyond the World Cup.
Maximiliano Rodriguez (Liverpool). Midfielder. Born Jan. 2 1981. Caps: 35. Goals: 10.
Right wing nicknamed "Fiera" (wild cat) for his never-say-die attitude. Scored the outstanding goal of the 2006 finals, a looping, left-footed volley from well outside the box for the winner in Argentina's 2-1 extra-time victory over Mexico. An incisive runner who likes to cut diagonally into the box.
Jesus Datolo (Olympiakos). Midfielder. Born May 17 1984. Caps: 3. Goals: 2.
Left-sided player not afraid to try shooting from distance who marked his debut with the winner in the friendly against Guus Hiddink's Russia less than a minute after coming on as a substitute and scored against Brazil with a thunderbolt from outside the box into the far top corner. Moved to Olympiakos on loan from Napoli to be sure of playing regularly with an eye on the World Cup.
Jose Sosa (Estudiantes de La Plata). Midfielder. Born June 19 1985. Caps: 6. Goals: 1.
Skilled attacking midfielder who returned to Estudiantes on loan from Bayern Munich but was not allowed by FIFA to play for them at the Club World Cup in December. Has shown all his skills helping Estudiantes to defend the Libertadores Cup but his chances for Argentina since a March 2005 debut have been few and far between.
Lionel Messi (Barcelona). Forward. Born June 24 1987. Caps: 45. Goals: 13.
World's top player, a multiple title-winner with his club, small and nicknamed "The Flea", with exceptional ball control at speed. Some of his skills are reminiscent of Maradona the player but he will have to work out with the coach how they both get the best out of him for his country after some indifferent performances in the qualifiers.
Gonzalo Higuain (Real Madrid). Forward. Born Dec. 10 1987. Caps: 4. Goals: 2.
Brilliant finisher, the centre forward Argentina needed to be able to forget Gabriel Batistuta and Hernan Crespo, he was also eligible for France having been born in Brest where his defender father "Pipa" (hence the nickname "Pipita") played but turned them down. An intelligent player always seeking space to take the ball from a team mate, he prefers to run on to passes but will also do a good job with his back to goal holding the ball up. Overlooked at first by Maradona, apparently over his refusal to play for Argentina at the World Youth Cup in 2007.
Carlos Tevez (Manchester City). Forward. Born Feb. 5 1984. Caps: 53. Goals: 8.
Known as "Apache" after the shantytown "Fuerte (fort) Apache" where he grew up, he is a battler to the last and one of Argentina's most charismatic players. As a City regular he has recovered the scoring form with which he won the South American Player of the Year award for three years in a row while at Boca Juniors and Corinthians. Has made a huge impression in England's Premier League, scoring regularly, and will be looking to transfer his form to his games for Argentina after mixed performances and two red cards in the qualifiers.
Sergio Aguero (Atletico Madrid). Forward. Born June 2 1988. Caps: 21. Goals: 7.
Nicknamed "Kun" after a Japanese cartoon character. A regular scorer for his club side, with tremendous ability and agility to turn defenders, he has become a regular substitute for Argentina and a penalty-box menace for the best defences. He is the father of Maradona's first grandson, Benjamin.
Diego Milito (Inter Milan). Forward. Born June 12 1979. Caps: 21. Goals: 4.
Another of the Argentine goal machines who have prowled the European leagues this season, leading the Inter attack into the Champions League final and helping them to win the Serie A title. Has scored few times for Argentina but should prove an asset coming off the bench.
Ezequiel Lavezzi (Napoli). Forward. Born May 3 195. Caps: 6.
"Pocho" (chubby one) is a temperamental, highly skilled forward who has at times got on the wrong side of officials at his Serie A club but at others has thrilled the fans with his skills, transporting them back to the days of glory with Maradona.
Martin Palermo (Boca Juniors). Forward. Born Nov. 7 1973. Caps: 13. Goals: 8.
Maradona gave Boca's all-time record scorer an 80 percent guarantee he would take him to South Africa. Not noted for skill but has an uncanny knack of finding the right positions in the box. Stands out for the unusual goals he has scored and one key strike for Argentine in pouring rain against Peru in the qualifiers when Maradona asked for and got a miracle from the man who has missed three penalties in one match but has scored eight in only 13 internationals. He spent 10 years overlooked by his country after a 1999 debut. (Compiled by Rex Gowar, Editing by Ed Osmond; To query or comment on this story email sportsfeedback@thomsonreuters.com)
World-Argentina's route to the World Cup finals
May 18 (Reuters) - Argentina's route to the World Cup finals
in South Africa from June 11 to July 11:
HOW THEY QUALIFIED
South American group
P W D L F A Pts
1 Brazil 18 9 7 2 33 11 34
2 Chile 18 10 3 5 32 22 33
3 Paraguay 18 10 3 5 24 16 33
4 Argentina 18 8 4 6 23 20 28
5 Uruguay 18 6 6 6 28 20 24
6 Ecuador 18 6 5 7 22 26 23
7 Colombia 18 6 5 7 14 18 23
8 Venezuela 18 6 4 8 23 29 22
9 Bolivia 18 4 3 11 22 36 15
10 Peru 18 3 4 11 11 34 13
1-4 qualified for World Cup finals
- -
World Cup qualifier (WCQ): 15.06.08
Argentina 1 Ecuador 1
In Buenos Aires
Scorers:
Argentina: Rodrigo Palacio 89
Ecuador: Patricio Urrutia 69
- -
WCQ: 18.06.08
Brazil 0 Argentina 0
In Belo Horizonte
- -
WCQ: 06.09.08
Argentina 1 Paraguay 1
In Buenos Aires
Scorers:
Argentina: Sergio Aguero 60
Paraguay: Gabriel Heinze 13og
- -
WCQ: 10.09.08
Peru 1 Argentina 1
In Lima
Scorers:
Peru: Johan Fano 90+3
Argentina: Esteban Cambiasso 82
- -
WCQ: 11.10.08
Argentina 2 Uruguay 1
In Buenos Aires
Scorers:
Argentina: Lionel Messi 5, Sergio Aguero 12
Uruguay: Diego Lugano 39
- -
WCQ: 15.10.08
Chile 1 Argentina 0
In Santiago
Scorer: Fabian Orellana 35
- -
WCQ: 28.03.09
Argentina 4 Venezuela 0
In Buenos Aires
Scorers: Lionel Messi 25, Carlos Tevez 47, Maxi Rodriguez
51, Sergio Aguero 72
- -
WCQ: 01.04.09
Bolivia 6 Argentina 1
In La Paz
Scorers:
Bolivia: Marcelo Martins 12, Joaquin Botero 34pen, 55, 66,
Alex Da Rosa 45, Didi Torrico 87
Argentina: Luis Gonzalez 25
- -
WCQ: 06.06.09
Argentina 1 Colombia 0
In Buenos Aires
Scorer: Daniel Diaz 55
- -
WCQ: 10.06.09
Ecuador 2 Argentina 0
In Quito
Scorers: Walter Ayovi 72, Pablo Palacios 83
- -
WCQ: 05.09.09
Argentina 1 Brazil 3
In Rosario
Scorers:
Argentina: Jesus Datolo 65
Brazil: Luisao 23, Luis Fabiano 30, 68
- -
WCQ: 09.09.09
Paraguay 1 Argentina 0
In Asuncion
Scorer: Nelson Valdez 27
- -
WCQ: 10.10.09
Argentina 2 Peru 1
In Buenos Aires
Scorers:
Argentina: Gonzalo Higuain 48, Martin Palermo 90+2
Peru: Hernan Rengifo 89
- -
WCQ: 14.10.09
Uruguay 0 Argentina 1
In Montevideo
Scorer: Mario Bolatti 84
- - - -
(Editing by Tom Pilcher)
Greece
Group B
Take 2
Greece enters its second World Cup determined to erase memories of its dismal performance in 1994 and boasting arguably the best Greek squad compiled by coach Otto Rehhagel (top)
World-Greece return to set the record straight
By Karolos Grohmann
ATHENS, May 18 (Reuters) - Greece enter their second World Cup determined to avoid a repeat of their appearance in 1994 which ended in complete failure.
The Greeks lost all three group matches against Nigeria, Argentina and Bulgaria, conceding 10 goals and scoring none.
It was mocked as the '4-4-2 system', letting in four goals in the first and second matches and two in the last game.
Fast forward 16 years and Greece are back in a World Cup Group with Argentina and Nigeria. South Korea are their other group opponents.
This time though they are no rookies.
Having stunned the soccer world with their Euro 2004 victory, Greece have managed to qualify for three of the last four major tournaments, all under the guidance of 71-year-old German coach Otto Rehhagel.
Euro 2004 veterans such as Kostas Katsouranis and Giorgos Karagounis are driven by the thought of crowning their international careers with a successful World Cup campaign.
For gifted younger players like Sotiris Ninis and Sokratis Papastathopoulos it is a chance to show their skills on a stage they could only dream of a few years back.
"Our aim is to have a decent display in South Africa," said playmaker Ninis, who is said to be a transfer target for several major European clubs. "But if we can grab a good result in the first game or even the second then the door is open."
The current squad is arguably the best Rehhagel has assembled in Greece. Defensive order has been restored after some two years, with Papastathopoulos and Vangelis Moras emerging as Rehhagel's new "twin towers".
Their midfield, with Karagounis, Katsouranis and Ninis, is brimming with skill and their front line includes Fanis Gekas, the top scorer in all European qualifying groups with 10 goals.
Moving into the next round would be exceeding the country's expectations but ruling out Greece too early has been risky in the past. (Editing by Robert Woodward; To query or comment on this story email sportsfeedback@thomsonreuters.com)
World-Factbox on Greece
May 18 (Reuters) - Factbox on Greece who are competing in Group B at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa:
Colours: White shirts, white shorts and white socks.
Nickname: I Ethniki (the National)
Previous World Cup appearances: 1994
Best World Cup performance: Group stage 1994
Coach: Otto Rehhagel
Most capped player: Theodoros Zagorakis 120
Top goalscorer: Nikos Anastopoulos 29
Talking points:
Greece are eager to redeem themselves for a disappointing appearance at the 1994 World Cup, their only other appearance. It could also be coach Otto Rehhagel's last tournament in charge after nine years because the 71-year-old German is rumoured to be leaving after the tournament.
Player to watch:
Greek hopes rest on striker Theofanis Gekas. The former Bundesliga top scorer has been back in form, scoring in a bid to save Hertha Berlin from relegation after switching in mid-season from Bayer Leverkusen. His speed and goal instinct are eye-popping and he was the top scorer in all of the Eurozone's World Cup qualifying groups, with 10 goals. (Editing by Robert Woodward; To query or comment on this story email sportsfeedback@thomsonreuters.com)
World-Penpix of Greece squad
ATHENS, May 18 (Reuters) - Penpix of Greece's squad for the World Cup in South Africa:
Alexandros Tzorvas (Panathinaikos). Goalkeeper. Born Aug. 12 1982. Caps 6. Goals 0
Won the Greek championship and Cup double this season and appears to be leading the race for the number one spot. Played in the World Cup qualification playoffs against Ukraine.
Michalis Sifakis (Aris Salonika). Goalkeeper. Born Sept. 9 1984. Caps 1. Goals 0.
At 25, the youngest of the three keepers. Sifakis is a spectacular and lightning-quick keeper but lacks international experience.
Kostas Chalkias (PAOK Salonika). Goalkeeper. Born May 30 1974. Caps 27. Goals 0.
Long in the shadow of Antonis Nikopolidis in the national team, Halkias has struggled to maintain a consistently high standard. Mistake-prone with high balls and at set pieces.
Loukas Vyntra (Panathinaikos). Defender. Born Feb. 5 1981. Caps 27. Goals 0.
A tall, skilful defender who likes to push forward down the wing. Has played a more central defensive role in recent seasons. Born in the Czech Republic and moved to Greece at the age of nine.
Sotiris Kyrgiakos (Liverpool). Defender. Born July 23 1979. Caps 56. Goals 4.
The heart and soul of the Greek defence, the powerful Kyrgiakos is also attack-minded and is dangerous with headers from set pieces. The pony-tailed defender can be reckless and has more than once been sent off in crucial games.
Vangelis Moras (Bologna). Defender. Born Aug. 26 1981. Caps 10. Goals 0.
One of coach Otto Rehhagel's 'Twin towers', a feature in almost all the teams he has managed. At 1.94 metres, Moras is the backbone of the team and one of the reasons defensive order was restored during the qualifying campaign.
Christos Patsatzoglou (Omonia). Defender. Born March 19 1979. Caps 41. Goals 1.
Experienced defender who can also be deployed in a holding midfield role. Has good ball skills and a powerful shot. A versatile tool for Greece.
Giourkas Seitaridis (Panathinaikos). Defender. Born June 4 1981. Caps 67. Goals 1.
Has played irregularly this season and has received a last-minute call-up with his experience swinging the decision. Part of the Euro 2004-winning team, has been out of form for two seasons. His sprints down the wings are nowadays a rare sight.
Avraam Papadopoulos (Olympiakos). Defender. Born May 3 1984. Caps 12. Goals 0
Hard-working, intelligent defender, Papadopoulos has quickly built a name for himself. His hard tackling often leads to problems with referees.
Socratis Papastathopoulos (Genoa). Defender. Born June 9 1988. Caps 10. Goals 0.
The other half of Greece's tall central defence. Has moved to Serie A where his skills and authority are in great demand.
Giorgos Galitsios (Olympiakos). Defender. Born June 8 1986. Caps 1. Goals 0.
One of a new generation of defenders, he was called up by Rehhagel for the Ukraine second-leg playoff as a defensive option due to an injury to Vassilis Torosidis.
Giorgos Tzavellas (Panionios). Defender. Born Nov. 11 1987. Caps 1. Goals 0.
Had an outstanding season in the Greek league and won his first cap alongside Galitsios in a friendly against Senegal in March.
Nikos Spyropoulos (Panathinaikos). Defender. Born Oct. 10 1983. Caps 17. Goals 0.
The diminutive left-back is on the rise after establishing himself with Panathinaikos. Arguably the most creative player in that position, he can also switch to the other side. Likes to carry the ball forward.
Vassilis Torosidis (Olympiakos). Defender. Born June 10 1985. Caps 25. Goals 2.
Strong in the air and skilful, Torosidis is equally comfortable in the midfield role he has often been asked to fill.
Stelios Malezas (PAOK Thessaloniki). Defender. Born March 11 1985. Caps 0. Goals 0.
An unexpected addition to the squad, the tall, 25-year-old central defender has been very strong for PAOK this season as the team battles for a Champions League qualification spot.
Kostas Manolas (AEK Athens). Defender. June 14 1991. Caps 0. Goals 0.
The nephew of former Greece international Stelios Manolas, Kostas looks to have inherited the defensive skills of his uncle, even playing for the same team. The 1.86-metre tall central defender is among the most talented Greek teenagers though whether he will make the final cut is questionable.
Stergos Marinos (Panathinaikos). Defender. Born Sept. 17 1987. Caps 0. Goals 0.
A talented rightback who has climbed through the national youth teams. Grabbed the opportunity to make himself known in his first season at Panathinaikos. Possesses unusual speed for a defender and very good ball skills. Is also is dangerous with crosses.
Giorgos Karagounis (Panathinaikos). Midfielder. Born March 6 1977. Caps 91. Goals 6.
The captain and undisputed leader of the team will finally get the chance to shine on the biggest stage. Veteran of the Euro 2004 title-winning campaign, he has the big-tournament experience and a never-say-die attitude. Can be deadly from set pieces and has a powerful right foot.
Grigoris Makos (AEK Athens). Midfielder. Born Jan. 18 1987. Caps 3. Goals 0.
The quick-footed midfielder has had little opportunity to shine in a midfield crowded with big names. Has gone through the ranks of all the national youth teams. Lacks international experience at senior level.
Kostas Katsouranis (Panathinaikos). Midfielder. Born June 21 1979. Caps 67. Goals 7.
Another of the Euro 2004 winners left in the squad, Katsouranis commands authority in midfield and can slice open defences with one skilful pass. He is strong in the air and eager to get forward for set pieces.
Sotiris Ninis (Panathinaikos). Midfielder. Born April 3 1990. Caps 3. Goal 1.
Arguably the most gifted player of his generation, Ninis is a joy to watch in midfield. Vision, speed and skill will turn this youngster into a transfer target for major European clubs if Rehhagel gives him a starting spot. Has often been left on the bench in the past two years.
Alexandros Tziolis (Siena). Midfielder. Born Feb. 13 1985. Caps 17. Goals 0.
Tall and strong, Tziolis is equipped with a thundering right-footed shot. Had a successful stint at Werder Bremen before joining Siena where he has established himself this season. Enjoys playing a defensive midfield role but relishes the chance to venture forward.
Sakis Prittas (Aris Thessaloniki). Midfielder. Born Jan. 9 1979. Caps 0. Goals 0.
The holding midfielder was a surprise addition to the Greece team, rewarded at the age of 31 with a spot on the squad for his strong league performances and for helping to steer Aris to the Greek Cup final. A very physical and skilled player.
Fanis Gekas (Bayer Leverkusen). Forward. Born May 23 1980. Caps 46. Goals 20.
Rehhagel's biggest weapon in attack. Lightning fast and skilful, Gekas is a nightmare for defenders, capable of scoring from any position. Style is reminiscent of 1970s Germany striker Gerd Mueller. Top scorer in all European Zone qualifying groups with 10 goals from 12 matches.
Pantelis Kapetanos (Steaua Bucharest). Forward. Born June 8 1983. Caps 1. Goals 0.
Blond-haired striker has made a name for himself with Steaua Bucharest. Strong but sometimes ponderous, he is a new addition to Rehhagel's squad.
Kostas Mitroglou (Olympiakos). Forward. Born March 12 1988. Caps 1. Goals: 0
The 22-year-old enjoyed success with the under-19 team which reached the European final in 2007. Learned his trade in Germany as a youngster. Quick and strong in the air.
Giorgos Samaras (Celtic). Forward. Born Feb. 21 1985. Caps 32. Goals 5.
Tall, long-haired striker who enjoys bursting down the left but has had a hapless spell at Celtic. Powerful in the air and a good dribbler but often wants to do it all alone.
Lazaros Christodoulopoulos (Panathinaikos). Forward. Born Dec. 19 1986. Caps 3. Goals 0.
A feature in the side for the first half of the season, he lost his starting spot and could also be leaving Panathinaikos. Was once regarded as a major talent but he has yet to show consistency in his game.
Angelos Haristeas (Nuremberg). Forward. Born Feb. 9 1980. Caps 82. Goals 23.
Hero in Greece for his winning goal in the 2004 Euro final, Haristeas is long past his prime and a bad season at Nuremberg will have done little to increase his chances of a World Cup starting place. But his aerial ability, technique and Rehhagel's consistent support could prove enough.
Dimitris Salpingidis (Panathinaikos). Striker. Born Aug. 10 1981. Caps 33. Goals 3.
The diminutive Panathinaikos forward won the domestic double this season and scored the crucial away goal against Ukraine in the World Cup qualification playoff that sent Greece through 1-0 on aggregate. A speedy and intelligent striker, he makes up for his lack of height with quick positioning in the box and a powerful shot. (Compiled by Karolos Grohmann, Editing by Clare Fallon; To query or comment on this story email sportsfeedback@thomsonreuters.com)
World-Greece's route to the World Cup finals
May 18 (Reuters) - Greece's route to the World Cup finals in
South Africa from June 11 to July 11:
HOW THEY QUALIFIED
European Group Two
P W D L F A Pts
1.Switzerland* 10 6 3 1 18 8 21
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
2.GREECE** 10 6 2 2 20 10 20
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
3. Latvia 10 5 2 3 18 15 17
4. Israel 10 4 4 2 20 10 16
5. Luxembourg 10 1 2 7 4 25 5
6. Moldova 10 0 3 7 6 18 3
* Qualified for the 2010 FIFA World Cup
**Qualified for the play-off matches (Nov. 14/18 2009)
- - - -
PLAYOFF RESULTS
14.11.09
Greece 0 Ukraine 0
In Athens
- -
18.11.09
Ukraine 0 Greece 1
In Donetsk
Scorer: Dimitris Salpingidis 31
- - - -
QUALIFYING RESULTS
06.09.08
Luxembourg 0 Greece 3
In Luxembourg
Scorers: Vassilis Torosidis 36, Theofanis Gekas 45+1,
Angelos Haristeas 76pen
- -
10.09.08
Latvia 0 Greece 2
In Riga
Scorer: Theofanis Gekas 10, 49
- -
11.10.08
Greece 3 Moldova 0
In Piraeus
Scorers: Angelos Haristeas 32, 51, Konstantinos Katsouranis
40
- -
15.10.08
Greece 1 Switzerland 2
In Piraeus
Scorers:
Greece: Angelos Haristeas 68
Switzerland: Alexander Frei 41pen Blaise Nkufo 77
- -
28.03.09
Israel 1 Greece 1
In Ramat Gan
Scorers:
Israel: Omer Golan 55
Greece: Theofanis Gekas 41
- -
01.04.09
Greece 2 Israel 1
In Heraklion
Scorers:
Greece: Dimitris Salpingidis 32, Giorgos Samaras 66pen
Israel: Elyaniv Barda 58
- -
05.09.09
Switzerland 2 Greece 0
In Basel
Scorers: Stephane Grichting 84, Marco Padalino 87
- -
09.09.09
Moldova 1 Greece 1
In Chisinau
Scorers:
Moldova: Valeriu Andronic 90
Greece: Theofanis Gekas 33
- -
10.10.09
Greece 5 Latvia 2
In Athens
Scorers:
Greece: Theofanis Gekas 4, 47pen, 57, 90+1 Giorgos Samaras
73
Latvia: Maris Verpakovskis 12, 40
- -
14.10.09
Greece 2 Luxembourg 1
Scorers:
Greece: Vassilis Torosidis 30, Theofanis Gekas 33
Luxembourg: Avraam Papadopoulos 90og
- -
(Compiled by Toby Davis)
South Korea
Group B
Feeling strong
South Korea stormed through Asian qualifying with an unblemished record and with a stellar supporting cast for skipper Park Ji-sung (R), the team looks like a lock to advance into the round of 16.
World-Unbeaten run makes South Korea confident
SEOUL, May 18 (Reuters) - South Korea swaggered through Asian qualifying with an unblemished record and will head to the World Cup finals with an air of confidence not seen since the wonder years of Guus Hiddink.
While skipper Park Ji-sung remains the beating heart of the team, the dynamic Manchester United midfielder now has a supporting cast that should help South Korea to advance from Group B and reach the last 16.
Surprise semi-finalists on home soil in 2002, the Koreans stumbled at the group stage in Germany four years ago but have enjoyed a purple patch under coach Huh Jung-moo, going 27 games unbeaten until a 1-0 loss to Serbia in November.
While some feared the appointment of Huh marked a return to the 'Old Guard' and would undo years of progress under coaches such as Hiddink, Dick Advocaat and Pim Verbeek, the hard-nosed 55-year-old has been quick to embrace the youth and zest coursing through the squad.
Park Chu-young, the foal-like striker once thought too frail to make the grade, is banging in goals with AS Monaco while a midfield duo dubbed "Double Dragon" have made fiery debuts in Europe.
Lee Chung-yong and Ki Sung-yong's partnership at FC Seoul earned them lucrative transfers to Bolton and Glasgow Celtic. The 21-year-olds share the Chinese character "yong" (dragon) in their names and will hope to rekindle their fire in South Africa.
South Korea will be targeting maximum points from Greece and Nigeria but getting anything from Argentina will be a tall order.
The Koreans were brushed aside 3-1 by Argentina at the 1986 World Cup, a game Diego Maradona remembers as being more like taekwondo than football thanks to the heavy-handed tactics employed by the Asian side.
Maradona's marker that day, a certain Huh Jung-moo, makes no apologies for their approach and suggested Lionel Messi and his team mates could be in for a rough ride when they meet in Johannesburg on June 17.
"If I am asked to play Maradona and Argentina again, I will do the same thing," the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) website (www.the-afc.com) quoted Huh as saying.
"I don't want to give them an easy win. I will stop them. I will fight them.
"We will try to cut down their speed and reduce their tempo. Counter-attacks are crucial. They will be the key."
South Korea, who stand to earn $150,000 per man for reaching the second round, kick off their World Cup finals campaign against Greece in Port Elizabeth on June 12 and meet Nigeria 10 days later in Durban. (Writing by Peter Rutherford in Singapore; Editing by Clare Fallon; To query or comment on this story email sportsfeedback@thomsonreuters.com)
World-Factbox on South Korea
May 18 (Reuters) - Factbox on South Korea who are in Group B at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa:
Colours: Red shirts, blue shorts, red socks.
Nickname: Taeguk Chunsa (Korean Warriors)
Previous World Cup appearances: 7: 1954, 1986, 1990, 1994,
1998, 2002, 2006
Best World Cup performance: Fourth, 2002
Coach: Huh Jung-moo
Most capped player: Hong Myung-bo (136)
Top goalscorer: Cha Bum-keun (55)
Talking points:
Park Ji-sung has been the focal point of South Korean soccer since his breakthrough at the 2002 World Cup, but he finally has strong team mates to share the load.
The burgeoning potential of Lee Chung-yong, Ki Sung-yong and Park Chu-young has blossomed in Europe and given the South Koreans the cutting edge they have lacked for years. Whether coach Huh Jung-moo will boldly play to his side's attacking strengths remains to be seen.
Player to watch:
Park Ji-sung. The South Korean skipper burst on to the world stage in 2002 and has gone from strength to strength since joining Manchester United from PSV Eindhoven in 2005. Nicknamed "Three-lunged Park", his boundless energy and terrier-like tenacity have endeared him to Alex Ferguson and the Old Trafford faithful.
(Compiled by Peter Rutherford in Singapore; Editing by Clare Fallon; To query or comment on this story email sportsfeedback@thomsonreuters.com)
World-Penpix of South Korea squad
SEOUL, May 18 (Reuters) - Penpix of South Korea's preliminary 30-man squad for the World Cup in South Africa:
Lee Woon-jae (Suwon). Goalkeeper. Born: April 26 1973. Caps 129. Goals 0.
Known as 'Spider Hands', Lee broke Spanish hearts in the 2002 World Cup quarter-finals. Excellent shot-stopper and there are few better in penalty shoot-outs. Suspended from the national team for a year after breaking team curfew during the 2007 Asian Cup.
Kim Young-kwang (Ulsan). Goalkeeper. Born: June 28 1983. Caps 14. Goals 0.
Starting goalkeeper for the Olympic side that made it through the group stage in 2004. Hit with a six-game ban in 2007 after throwing a bottle back into the crowd during a playoff. Went 977 minutes without conceding a goal in 2004.
Jung Sung-ryong (Seongnam). Goalkeeper. Born: Jan. 4 1985. Caps 14. Goals 0.
Struggled for playing time thanks to the longevity of Lee Woon-jae but was thrust into the starting slot after Lee's one-year ban and is seen as his successor in the long term.
Lee Young-pyo (Al Hilal). Defender. Born: April 23 1977. Caps 112. Goals 5
Explosive left-sided defender who earned rave reviews during the 2002 World Cup and was snapped up by Guus Hiddink when he left Korea to manage PSV Eindhoven. Also played for Tottenham and Borussia Dortmund before joining Al Hilal in 2009.
Kim Hyung-il (Pohang). Defender. Born: April 27 1984. Caps 2. Goals 0.
Rising talent who has suffered because of his inexperience and inability to read the game. Hard-working, physical centre-back who gives the team height at the back. Earned first cap against Oman last year.
Oh Beom-seok (Ulsan). Defender. Born: July 29 1984. Caps 36. Goals 2.
With the nickname "King of Fouls", Oh is noted for his physical attributes rather than his technique. Enjoyed a year in Russia with Krylya Sovetov but returned to Korea in 2009 after a pay dispute. Oh's father is on the Korea Football Association's technical committee and his sister was a Miss Korea runner-up.
Kim Dong-jin (Ulsan). Defender. Born: Jan. 29 1982. Caps 60. Goals 2.
Strong, left-sided defender. Released by Zenit St Petersburg in 2009 due to several fainting episodes and his career looked to be over after he collapsed at national training camp. Was diagnosed with circulation problems in his brain but has recovered and been given full medical clearance.
Cho Yong-hyung (Jeju). Defender. Born: Nov. 3 1983. Caps 30. Goals 0.
Elegant Jeju United sweeper who has helped to transform one of the leakiest K-League defences into one of the best. Comfortable in possession but on the slight side for a defender. Can struggle against physical strikers but is a favourite of coach Huh Jung-Moo.
Kang Min-soo (Suwon). Defender. Born: Feb. 14 1986. Caps 31. Goals 0.
Not a fans' favourite and unkindly dubbed the "automatic door" after poor performances at club and international level. Was sent off against Japan in 2007 Asian Cup but coach Huh still rates him and he has a chance of starting in South Africa.
Lee Jung-soo (Kashima). Defender. Born: Jan. 8 1980. Caps 22. Goals 2.
Pacy centre-back with a decent scoring record. Played for Anyang, FC Seoul, Incheon and Suwon in South Korea before moving to J-League side Kyoto. Signed for Kashima this year. Made his international debut against North Korea in 2008.
Kwak Tae-hwi (Kyoto). Defender. Born: July 8 1981. Caps 11. Goals 4.
Powerful central defender, dominant in the air, who has earned coach Huh's confidence with solid displays in the qualifiers. Was out for a year after knee surgery but now back to his best. An accident in high school left him virtually blind in the left eye.
Cha Du-ri (Freiburg). Defender. Born: July 25 1970. Caps 44. Goals 4.
Son of Korean great Cha Bum-keun, Cha has struggled to emerge from his father's shadow. Lightning quick and with a solid physique, earned the nickname "Human Weapon" for injuring opponents, team mates and coaches in games and during training sessions. Switched to defender in 2006.
Hwang Jae-won (Pohang). Defender. Born April 13 1981. Caps 4. Goals 0.
Should have earned far more caps but his international career was hampered by a scandal surrounding his relationship with a Miss Korea contestant. Seems to have worked his way back into coach Huh's good books and his performances with Asian club champions Pohang could earn him a ticket to South Africa.
Shin Hyung-min (Pohang). Defender. Born July 18 1986. Caps 4. Goals 0.
Highly-regarded young defender who earned his first full cap earlier this year. Can also operate comfortably in midfield and often used in the more advanced role with club side Pohang.
Park Ji-sung (Manchester United). Midfielder. Born: Feb. 25 1981. Caps 86. Goals 11.
Korean captain Park burst on to the world stage at the 2002 World Cup and has gone from strength to strength since joining Manchester United from PSV Eindhoven in 2005. Nicknamed "Three-lunged Park" for his boundless energy and tenacity.
Ki Sung-yong (Celtic). Midfielder. Born: Jan. 24 1989. Caps 18. Goals 4.
Asia's Young Player of the Year in 2009, Ki signed for Celtic in January. Has struggled with the physical Scottish game but impressed with his passing and set-piece expertise. Has developed a formidable midfield partnership with Lee Chung-yong at FC Seoul and in the national side.
Lee Chung-yong (Bolton). Midfielder. Born: July 2 1988. Caps 21. Goals 3.
Lee and Ki Sung-yong form a partnership dubbed "Double Dragon" at FC Seoul ('yong' means dragon). After a slow start in England, Lee has become a fan favourite with his flair. Lee will provide the width for South Korea in South Africa.
Kim Jung-woo (Gwangju). Midfielder. Born: May 9 1982. Caps 53. Goals 4.
Tough-tackling midfielder who played a key role in Ulsan's romp to the K-League championship in 2005. Had a spell in Japan and signed for South Korean military side Gwangju this season. Fiercely competitive and decent on the ball.
Kim Nam-il (Tom Tomsk). Midfielder. Born: March 14 1977. Caps 90. Goals 2.
Quietly effective anchorman, dubbed "Vacuum Cleaner" for sucking up errant passes and clean tackling. Shot to fame during South Korea's 2002 World Cup run. Local media coined the term "Kim Nam-il Syndrome" after an avalanche of endorsement offers and outpouring of affection from Korea's female population.
Kim Jae-sung (Pohang). Midfielder. Born: Oct. 3.1983. Caps 6. Goals 2.
Key figure in Pohang's AFC Champions League victory last season and is challenging for a place in the national team having scored twice in five appearances.
Kim Chi-woo (FC Seoul). Midfielder. Born: Nov. 11 1983. Caps 23. Goals 2.
Kim started his career with expansion team Incheon in 2004 and endured a torrid first season. He led a remarkable turnaround the following year, driving Incheon to the K-League finale. Earned his first cap the following year.
Cho Won-hee (Suwon). Midfielder. Born: April 17 1983. Caps 36. Goals 1.
A tough competitor with a tremendous work ethic, Cho signed for Wigan in 2009 but struggled to hold down a regular starting place due to injury. Returned to Korea on a one-year loan deal. Scored within a minute on his international debut in 2005.
Kim Bo-kyung (Oita Trinita). Midfielder. Born: Oct. 6 1989. Caps 5. Goals 0.
Scored two goals at the under-20 World Cup and earned his first full cap against Zambia in January. Promising rookie who was signed by Osaka in the Japanese league and loaned to Oita Trinita in the second division.
Koo Ja-cheol (Jeju). Midfielder. Born Feb. 27 1989. Caps 9. Goals 2.
Attack-minded midfielder who has already scored twice for the national team. The 21-year-old has been linked with a move to Europe next season. Talks on a transfer to English Premier League side Blackburn broke down in January but Koo is unlikely to remain at Jeju much longer.
Lee Keun-ho (Jubilo Iwata). Forward. Born April 11 1985. Caps 30. Goals 8.
After struggling to break through at Incheon, Lee signed for Daegu FC and became the focal point of a highly aggressive system dubbed 'Bullet Football'. Scored crucial goals in 2010 qualifying, including the opener against Saudi Arabia in Riyadh.
Ahn Jung-hwan (Dalian Shide). Forward. Born Jan. 27 1976. Caps 69. Goals 17.
Ahn's golden goal knocked Italy out of the 2002 World Cup and he earned a recall after coach Huh received glowing reports about his form with Dalian Shide. The team's former pin-up boy is one of the most skilful players the country has produced but his questionable work ethic and lack of pace can be his undoing.
Park Chu-young (Monaco). Forward. Born July 10 1985. Caps 38. Goals 13.
Once deemed too frail to make the grade, Park has blossomed with Monaco. Broke into FC Seoul's first team in 2005 and finished second in the scoring charts. Won K-League Rookie of the Year award.
Lee Dong-guk (Jeonbuk). Forward. Born April 29 1979. Caps 83. Goals 25.
The "Lion King" has been unable to live up to his potential after a succession of injuries. Overlooked by Guus Hiddink in 2002, he was Dick Advocaat's first-choice striker ahead of the 2006 World Cup but tore cruciate ligaments. Resurrected his career by returning to Korea and finished top scorer in 2009.
Lee Seung-ryul (FC Seoul). Forward. Born March 6 1989. Caps 6. Goals 3.
Lee was named K-League Rookie of the Year in 2007 and represented the national team at under-18, -20 and -23 level before getting his first senior cap in January. An outside bet to make the final squad for South Africa.
Yeom Ki-hun (Suwon). Forward. Born March 30 1983. Caps 31. Goals 3.
Broke a bone in his foot in February and has only just made his first appearance of the season in the domestic K-League. Excellent delivery from set pieces but unlikely to make final 23-man squad due to his history of injuries. (Compiled by Peter Rutherford in Singapore; Editing by Clare Fallon; To query or comment on this story email sportsfeedback@thomsonreuters.com)
Buzz up! 0
World-South Korea's route to the World Cup finals
May 18 (Reuters) - South Korea's route to the World Cup
finals in South Africa from June 11 to July 11:
HOW THEY QUALIFIED
Group 2 - Asian fourth round qualifying
P W D L F A Pts
1. Korea Republic * 8 4 4 0 12 4 16
2. Korea DPR * 8 3 3 2 7 5 12
3. Saudi Arabia ** 8 3 3 2 8 8 12
4. Iran 8 2 5 1 8 7 11
5. United Arab Emirates 8 0 1 7 6 17 1
* Qualified for the 2010 FIFA World Cup
** qualified for a two-legged play-off, with the winner
advancing to face New Zealand for a place at the World Cup
- -
Group 3 - Asian third round qualifying
P W D L F A Pts
1. Korea Republic * 6 3 3 0 10 3 12
2. Korea DPR * 6 3 3 0 4 0 12
3. Jordan 6 2 1 3 6 6 7
4. Turkmenistan 6 0 1 5 1 12 1
* qualified for next stage of World Cup qualifying
competition
- - - -
QUALIFYING RESULTS
06.02.08
South Korea 4 Turkmenistan 0
In Seoul
Scorers: Kwak Tae-hwi 43, Seol Ki-hyeon 57, 85, Park
Ji-sung70
- -
26.03.08
North Korea 0 South Korea 0
In Shanghai
- -
31.05.08
South Korea 2 Jordan 2
In Seoul
Scorers: South Korea: Park Ji-sung 39, Park Chu-young 48
Jordan: Hasan Abdel Mahmoud 73, 81
- -
07.06.08
Jordan 0 South Korea 1
In Amman
Scorer: Park Chu-young 24pen
- -
14.06.08
Turkmenistan 1 South Korea 3
In Ashgabat
Scorers:
Turkmenistan: Guvanch Ovekov 77pen
South Korea: Kim Do-heon 14, 81, 90+3pen
- -
22.06.08
South Korea 0 North Korea 0
In Seoul
- -
10.09.08
North Korea 1 South Korea 1
In Shanghai
Scorers:
North Korea: Hong Yong-jo 64pen
South Korea: Ki Sung-yong 69
- -
15.10.08
South Korea 4 United Arab Emirates 1
In Seoul
Scorers:
South Korea: Lee Keun-ho 20, 80, Park Ji-sung 26, Kwak
Tae-hwi 89
U.A.E.: Ismail Al Hammadi 72
- -
19.11.08
Saudi Arabia 0 South Korea 2
In Riyadh
Scorers: Lee Keun-ho 76, Park Chu-young 90+2
- -
11.02.09
Iran 1 South Korea 1
In Tehran
Scorers:
Iran: Javad Nekounam 58
South Korea: Park Ji-sung 81
- -
01.04.09
South Korea 1 North Korea 0
In Seoul
Scorer: Kim Chi-woo 86
- -
06.06.09
United Arab Emirates 0 South Korea 2
In Dubai
Scorers: Park Chu-young 9, Ki Sung-yong 37
- -
10.06.09
South Korea 0 Saudi Arabia 0
In Seoul
- -
17.06.09
South Korea 1 Iran 1
In Seoul
Scorers: South Korea: Park Ji-sung 82
Iran: Masoud Shojaei 52
- -
(Editing by Toby Davis)
www.pasarsport.blogspot.com
