Bittersweet memories for Goycochea
(FIFA.com) Tuesday 29 June 2010
Bittersweet memories for Goycochea
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Argentina’s Sergio Goycochea has made more of a mark on the history of the FIFA World Cup™ finals than most of his fellow goalkeepers. El Vasco started Italy 1990 on the bench, but an injury to first-choice custodian Nery Pumpido 11 minutes into the South Americans’ second group match against the Soviet Union gave the then 26-year-old the chance to shine between the posts. It was an opportunity he took with both hands, going on to become, in the opinion of no less an authority than Paraguayan legend Jose Luis Chilavert, “one of best ten World Cup goalkeepers ever”.

Goycochea played an integral part in Argentina’s run to the Final in Italy, where they lost out to Germany 1-0. Now, 20 years on, and with just a few days to go before the two sides lock horns again in the quarter-finals of South Africa 2010, the former custodian speaks exclusively to FIFA.com. Up for discussion are the form of the keepers on show in the world finals and that fateful game against the Germans two decades ago.

FIFA.com: Sergio, Saturday’s match between Argentina and Germany promises to be a classic. What memories do you have of your opponents in the Final of the 1990 FIFA World Cup Italy?
Not the best, I can tell you. Losing a World Cup Final is pretty painful and even more so when it’s against Germany. It was a strange game. We went into it with a lot of people out through injury and suspension, but we put up as much of a fight as we could and the fact that the Germans have a lot of respect for the Argentina shirt ensured it was an even game. They wouldn’t have shown so much respect if it had been someone else.

Have you watched Andreas Brehme’s match-winning penalty recently?
To be honest I’ve never seen a replay of it. I can’t save it now, can I? But that’s just the way it goes.
There’s been a big change in the team although I don’t know why. I guess it’s got something to do with the time they spent together before the first game.
Sergio Goycochea, former Argentina goalkeeper.

What is your happiest memory of the tournament?
Celebrating after saving (Aldo) Serena’s penalty in the semi-final against Italy. I ran off towards my team-mates and it was just one of those happy moments you get in football. There I was running around a stunned stadium and all I could hear were the cries of my team-mates. It was like saving a penalty against Super Mario on a pitch in my home town of Lima. That’s what it reminded me of, although there was a lot more at stake in that game against Italy.

Saving penalties was a speciality of yours. What do goalkeepers need to be aware of in situations like that?
You don’t need to do any special training. Obviously the most important thing is to know your opponents and know where they usually place them. Strikers take them in different ways to midfielders and defenders. Skilful players take them one way and less gifted ones another. And taking the first kick is different to taking the fifth. The first is only the start but if you have to score the fifth to tie things up, then that’s a different situation altogether. Goalkeepers need to stay calm and be aware that the pressure is all on the penalty taker. Everyone knows that and what you have to do is try to transmit that to the player taking the kick.

And what about the physical aspect?
You need to have strong legs, that’s absolutely essential. And you also need strong intuition and a little bit of luck too, though it’s not all about luck. At least not for me.

You also had a peculiar superstition before the penalty shootouts at Italy 1990.
Yes, but it was born of necessity. We’d played 120 minutes against Yugoslavia and of course we couldn’t go to the dressing room before the shootout. I’d taken a lot of liquid on board and unlike the outfield players I hadn’t lost it because I hadn’t been running around. I’d drunk so much I felt like going to the toilet, and as I couldn’t go to the changing room I asked one of my team-mates to shield me so I could urinate on the pitch. And against Italy I did the same thing and it worked again (laughs).

Turning to South Africa 2010 now, which goalkeeper has impressed you the most so far?
I’d say Julio Cesar, although that’s more because of the build-up to the finals than anything else. He still hasn’t had a great game but I’m sure he’ll repeat his Inter form as Brazil progress. I’m also very relaxed about the Argentina keeper Sergio Romero. He looks very secure and very solid and he’s dealt with the ball very well. We look really good in that area.

You know Diego Maradona very well. How far can his team go at South Africa?
There’s been a big change in the team although I don’t know why. I guess it’s got something to do with the time they spent together before the first game. There was an internal problem, Diego got the qualifiers out of the way and then, when everything calmed down, he started to shape the team. That, and the commitment of the players, is what’s making things work. Let’s hope they can keep it going.
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Appiah: This team is special

Appiah: This team is special
(FIFA.com) Tuesday 29 June 2010
Appiah: This team is special
AFP

After a few days of reflection on their historic second-round victory over USA, Ghana captain Stephen Appiah told FIFA that the Black Stars are staying themselves: relaxed and happy to be together. Having now gone further in the FIFA World Cup™ than ever before, and with a tricky match with Uruguay up next on Friday, the Bologna midfielder reflected on the values of what he calls "a special team".

"I am warmed by the players," said the 29-year-old from the team's camp outside of Rustenburg. "You can see that there is no tension, no pressure. Always with smiles, singing and laughing – stuff like that. What I've learnt is the more pressure you put on yourself, the more things go wrong. So, I have been telling the guys that they should be free [and that] nobody should even think about the games. Maybe a day or two before, then we have to focus on the game. But, for now, we're relaxed, training, laughing, singing, dancing. I think that's very important."

Handling the world's biggest football tournament in this way has been a consistent refrain from the Black Stars in South Africa. As they were four years ago on their finals debut, Ghana are the only African representatives in the knockout rounds, so they are obviously doing something right. And as anyone who has seen the joy and unity in their post-match celebrations can attest, togetherness is one of the team's hallmarks – not just in word but in spirit.
Maybe a day or two before, then we have to focus on the game. But, for now, we're relaxed, training, laughing, singing, dancing. I think that's very important.
Appiah on the secret to the Black Stars' success

'I think you can see the atmosphere," he said. "You can see the way we talk to and the respect we have for each other. We practise together, we laugh together, we do everything together. In fact, you can't even see the difference with the lower-cut players and the professional players. I think that's the secret. It's the nice thing about this team."

Grounded but with an eye on history
One of the veterans of what is the youngest team in South Africa, Appiah has been around the block a few times. He started his career with Ghanaian giants Hearts of Oak before embarking on a 13-year career, mostly in Italy's Serie A with Udinese, Parma, Brescia and Juventus. Appiah, who also had a spell in Turkey with Fenerbahce, explained that the young Black Stars are naturally driven in a way many sides are not.

"This Black Stars team is strange," he said. "If you go to some of the teams, if you go to their camp after a big victory like [against the US], you'll see the players outside the lobby, drinking and going to bed late. But, in our camp, you won't even see the players outside. After a big win you'll see us in our room, maybe talking with our wives, with our girlfriends or friends. We will be playing cards or listening to music. I think it's a good thing because – as I always say – with big players, you don't see them out after a big victory. They always stay in and focus. I think it's a good sign. The moment you think everything is going well and you start getting a cocky head, then everything goes wrong."

But while admitting that the team are "really proud" of their achievement in becoming the third team to reach the last eight at the FIFA World Cup, matching Cameroon in 1990 and Senegal in 2002, they are excited rather than intimidated by the opportunity that now presents itself. "I think that history is always history," he said about reaching the last eight. "Now it's our turn. Now that we're there, it's history for Ghana. We hope that we can still better it by going to the semi-final. And, for myself, it would be a great achievement because one day I would like to talk to my kids and explain to them what happened in South Africa in 2010."

Makaay: Messi the best so far

Makaay: Messi the best so far
(FIFA.com) Tuesday 29 June 2010
Makaay: Messi the best so far
Foto-net

Roy Makaay rates as one of European football’s most prolific strikers of recent times, with a total of 256 goals in Spain’s La Liga, the Bundesliga in Germany and the Dutch Eredivisie. He reached a personal zenith in 2003, when he claimed the Golden Shoe as the continent’s leading scorer with 29 goals in the Spanish top flight. At the end of last term, Makaay brought down the curtain on his illustrious career, which for all his success at club level, never included a run-out at the FIFA World Cup™.

In the build-up to the quarter-finals in South Africa, FIFA.com spoke to the 35-year-old about his impressions of the tournament so far, the best forwards at the finals, and who he is backing to win the trophy.

FIFA.com: Roy, you’re certain to be following the action at the FIFA World Cup, but where from?
Roy Makaay: At the moment, I’m watching the matches at a theme park in Germany, where I’m taking a few days’ vacation with my family. From the quarter-finals onwards, I’ll be watching at home in the Netherlands.

What’s your assessment of the tournament so far?
The tournament’s not really caught fire yet. We’ve had a couple of terrific games, but quite a few poor ones too. But I think it’s beginning to change now we’re in the knockout stages, and the games will be increasingly attractive.
Van Marwijk is an outstanding coach. He’s very calm and collected, he knows exactly what he wants, and he communicates that directly to the players.
Roy Makaay on Bert van Marwijk

What’s the biggest surprise so far, and what’s disappointed you the most?
The biggest surprise is definitely seeing Uruguay and Paraguay or Japan in the last eight. The biggest disappointment has to be the performance of the 2006 finalists, Italy and France.

You played in Spain, Germany and the Netherlands. How would you rate the national teams from those countries?
The Dutch qualified for the quarter-finals very comfortably. They’ve been in no trouble at all in any of their matches – and they can still play a lot better too. Germany fully deserve their place in the quarter-finals. They’ve played some lovely football. Knocking England out of the tournament 4-1 says it all, but now they have to play Argentina, the best team I’ve seen so far. And Spain are a great team. They were a bit unlucky in their first game against the Swiss, but with their potential, I regard them as one of the favourites for the trophy.

You know Netherlands boss Bert van Marwijk very well after playing for him in Rotterdam with Feyenoord. What’s he like as a coach?
Van Marwijk is an outstanding coach. He’s very calm and collected, he knows exactly what he wants, and he communicates that directly to the players. They know there can only be one target this time, which is winning the World Cup. I rate Van Marwijk as one of the best coaches I ever had.

The Elftal face Brazil in the quarter-finals. How will they approach the game, and how far can the Dutch go at the tournament?
Holland against Brazil is a massive game. I reckon the teams are just as good as each other right now, and I think the winners will go through to the Final. Obviously, I’m hoping the Dutch win the game.

Speaking as a former world-class striker, which forward has impressed you the most so far?
I’ve really enjoyed watching Lionel Messi. He’s my player of the tournament at the moment, despite not scoring himself as yet. But there’s also Gonzalo Higuain, Diego Forlan and Luis Suarez, who I know well from the Eredivisie.

Germany starlet Thomas Muller has received rave reviews at the finals. How do you rate him?
It's not just that Thomas has had a great World Cup, he maintained very high standards throughout last season. He’s brought all the positives from a superb season with Bayern with him to the World Cup – like all the Bayern players in fact – and he’s been outstanding so far. He’s young, he’s unaffected by the pressure, and you can see he’s enjoying the tournament.

Who are your favourites for the trophy?
Before it started, I’d have said Brazil and Spain. Now, and as I’ve just told you, I see the winners of Holland versus Brazil meeting Argentina or Spain in the Final, and that could go either way.

You ended your long and successful playing career in May. What does the future hold for you now?
I’m hoping to make a gradual transition to coaching, so I need to earn the necessary qualifications in the Netherlands. As of the new season, I’ll be attached to the Feyenoord youth section, where I’ll be running special training sessions for the young strikers.

Low's boys have the belief

Low's boys have the belief
(AFP) Wednesday 30 June 2010
Low's boys have the belief
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Coach Joachim Low hopes Germany will ride the wave of youthful confidence after their 4-1 hammering of England to take them past Argentina in Saturday's FIFA World Cup™ quarter-final.

Many of his young side have only recently graduated from Germany's U-21 team which won last summer's European Championships, and while his team has an average age of just under 25 years, they are eager to take on Diego Maradona's Argentina.

"There is a very positive feeling in the team. We have gained a lot of confidence from the victory against England," said Low ahead of Saturday's clash in Cape Town.

"A lot of the younger players became European U-21 champions and it has given them a lot of confidence for a tournament like this."

Germany beat Argentina 4-2 on penalties when the teams met at the same stage of Germany 2006, but Low has yet to nominate the five players who could take spot-kicks this time.

"We have already practiced penalties, each player took two," said Low. "But you can never recreate the pressure or the nervous tension.
We have found weaknesses in their side, but I will keep that information for my players.
Joachim Low, Germany coach

"You don't know who will still be on the pitch after 120 minutes of football, injuries can change everything, so we will only decide that after extra-time has been played."

Although his side hammered both Australia and England on the way to the quarter-finals, Loew knows Maradona's Argentina will be step up in class, but the Germany coach says he has found weaknesses to exploit.

"They have great qualities. For me, they are one of the favorites for this tournament. They have a lot of experience, they have an impressive attack and not just through Lionel Messi alone.

"We have found weaknesses in their side, but I will keep that information for my players."

Argentina have won all four of their games at this World Cup and Low says they are playing with supreme confidence under Maradona. "Maradona was a phenomenon and an idol. His team plays with a lot of self-confidence and pride, they will be hard to beat.

"We have several players in the team who faced them in 2006, that was a very tense game with lots of commitment. We can't afford many errors against Argentina, they can punish any mistakes very quickly."

The only fitness doubt surrounds Brazil-born striker Cacau who suffered a muscle strain before the game against England.

Mourinho backs Ronaldo

Mourinho backs Ronaldo
(PA) Wednesday 30 June 2010
Mourinho backs Ronaldo
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Jose Mourinho has defended Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo after watching his countrymen exit the FIFA World Cup™ at the hands of Spain yesterday. Ronaldo was isolated for long periods as Portugal played a defensive game and Spain eventually won 1-0 thanks to a second-half David Villa strike.

Mourinho, who will coach the 25-year-old at Real Madrid this season, does not expect the winger will be similarly ineffective under his tutelage and said criticism of his FIFA World Cup performances were misplaced.

"I will not allow all the responsibilities of the team to fall on Ronaldo," he said in quotes published by Marca. "In my teams, when we win, we all win, and when we lose, I lose - so Ronaldo can relax and enjoy his holidays."

Aguirre quits as Mexico coach

Aguirre quits as Mexico coach
(AFP) Wednesday 30 June 2010
Aguirre quits as Mexico coach
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Javier Aguirre on Wednesday resigned as Mexico coach following the team's defeat to Argentina in the last 16 of the FIFA World Cup™. The 50-year-old replaced ex-England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson in April 2009, but Sunday's 3-1 defeat to Argentina in Johannesburg was the fifth successive time the country had failed in the Round of 16.

"It's very clear. The first person responsible is me. I believe that I have to resign my job," Aguirre told a news conference. "It's the most honest solution, the fairest and it's something I have to do."

Aguirre was in his second spell as national coach having qualified Mexico to the 2002 FIFA World Cup where they were eliminated by the United States in the last 16. He also led Mexico to the 2001 CONMEBOL Copa America final where they lost to Colombia in Bogota.

Mexico's best performance at a FIFA World Cup was a run to the quarter-finals in 1970 and 1986 when both tournaments were staged at home.

Parreira: Technique always tells

Parreira: Technique always tells
(FIFA.com) Wednesday 30 June 2010
Parreira: Technique always tells
AFP

No coach has taken part in more FIFA World Cup™ finals than Carlos Alberto Parreira. Now 67, the Bafana Bafana boss has just chalked up his sixth finals appearance at South Africa 2010 and remains as enthusiastic about the competition as he has always been.

Speaking exclusively to FIFA.com, the veteran Brazilian coach talks about his tenure with South Africa, the legacy he hopes to leave behind and the satisfaction he derives from seeing technically gifted players in action.

FIFA.com: Carlos, what is your view of the FIFA World Cup so far?
Carlos Alberto Parreira: Life’s a funny thing, you know. I wasn’t the only one who thought we’d never see another World Cup like Germany 2006 again. The Germans are perfectionists when it comes to technology, organisation, structure and professionalism and the feeling was that the event was so perfect we’d never see another one like it. Now we’ve got the World Cup here in Africa, and to everyone’s surprise the stadiums, training grounds, hotels and even the weather have been great. Everything has come together and it's been a fantastic tournament so far.

And what about the football you have seen?
The technical standard has been high and that’s because we’ve put an emphasis on quality and technique. Unlike athletics, swimming and other sports, football is a game where skill and technique are especially important. Strength and speed are necessary too but they’re not fundamental. If they were, then you’d just have runners and powerful athletes playing the game. After all, players need to be able to master technical aspects. As a South American it’s great to see how things have been going here. There’s only been one defeat so far, for Chile against Spain [Chile later lost to Brazil] and they only went down 2-1 after having a man sent off. South American teams are dominating, and they’re doing so with their technique and quality, which is what people want to see.

Ghana are the only African side left in the competition. What are their chances of winning the title?
Ghana did well at the last World Cup. They beat Czech Republic, who were one of the favourites, in a fantastic match and then they lost 3-0 to Brazil. But that was a really tough game for them. They’re an experienced and well-organised side now, with a coach who knows them well, and they’ve also brought in some of the U-20 World Cup-winning team. I think they’ve got what it takes to produce some more big performances.

A lot of people have been saying that the spirit in the Brazil camp is the same as it was in 1994. Would you agree?
I’ve got a few friends in A Seleção and they’re all telling me that the atmosphere is really good, and that’s essential. If it was just a question of quality, then we wouldn’t have gone 24 years without winning the title or reaching a Final. The mood in the squad looks really good and that’s obviously an important first step for the team. It makes everything else easier. The quality, history and weight of the jersey are already there and the team is technically accomplished too. There’s no doubt they’re one of the best sides in the competition.
You can see how football brings the country together.
Carlos Alberto Parreira, South Africa coach

How did you find the experience of coaching the host nation?
It was very different to the others, which is one of the things that attracted me to the job in the first place. When I came in people were critical of my salary but it’s not that high when you compare it to the best-paid jobs in football. I dealt with that in my first press conference here though. I said I hadn’t come for the money. I’m not a millionaire but I’m a man of independent means and I saw coaching the host nation as a challenge. I had to go back to Brazil after 18 months for personal reasons. Then Joel came in and I thought there’d be no way back for me. They had a good Confederations Cup and everything looked fine until they started having problems in the friendlies. There were a few things that a national coach always finds hard to deal with and they lost nine games in a row. That’s when they came out to Brazil and invited me back. I accepted their offer and I haven’t regretted it. You can see how football brings the country together and I’ve had a warm welcome back. I think I’ve worked hard and that’s how the whole ‘Make Us Proud’ thing started. That’s what people were saying to me in the street and it sounded good to me, so I started using it in interviews and the thing just built up from there.

How would you assess South Africa’s performance in the competition?
We know the football’s not strong enough here for us to become world champions and we don’t have enough players in the top leagues. That said, the team put on a good show and the people are very happy with them. We gave a good account of ourselves. We started well against Mexico, we finished strongly against France and the Uruguay game was a tough one. Overall, it was a positive experience. We’ve laid foundations for the future and in the 15 games since I returned last November we’ve lost just that one match to the Uruguayans. It would have been perfect to go through, of course, but we did well and I hope it helps lift the standard of the game here in South Africa.

What is your message for the game here? What is the next step they need to take?
The PSL is very strong and well-organised and there’s money there, but it doesn’t help that there are no youth leagues. You can’t make progress without them. Youngsters are the way forward, and it would be a good idea to invest in this. In Brazil we have a talent factory that runs 24 hours a day, shift after shift, and that’s our greatest strength. I’ve also put in my report that it might be a good idea to consider reducing the number of foreign players at clubs. There are a lot of them, five at each club, and if they want to stand out, then maybe it would be better to have a maximum of two only.

What is your future in the game?
I’ve already had offers from clubs and a couple of national teams in Africa and Asia. I don’t want to do anything right now though. I won’t be doing anything on the pitch until December. I have a few lectures and courses to do but nothing day-to-day and nothing that’ll stop me spending weekends with my family.

Paraguay boss desperate for goals

Paraguay boss desperate for goals
(AFP) Thursday 1 July 2010
Paraguay boss desperate for goals
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Paraguay face Spain in the FIFA World Cup™ quarter-finals on Saturday in desperate need of goals, having scored just three times through four matches.

All three of coach Gerardo Martino's favoured forwards play for top line clubs. Veteran Roque Santa Cruz is at English Premier League side Manchester City, while Lucas Barrios and Nelson Valdez are both at Bundesliga heavyweights Borussia Dortmund. But not one of Paraguay's meagre three goals has come from any of them.

Martino, who has guided the defensively rock solid South Americans to their first ever quarter-finals thanks to a penalty shoot-out win over Japan, came to South Africa in the knowledge that finding the back of the net would be tough. Salvador Cabanas, his top scorer from the qualifying stage, was shot in the head in a Mexican bar in January and is still recovering at home.

All the same, Martino would have been looking for a quick return on his faith in selecting Argentina-born Barrios, who qualified to play through his Paraguay-born mother, as he scored an impressive 19 goals in the Bundesliga. Yet, Barrios and his fellow strikers have found it impossible to unlock the defences of New Zealand, Italy, Slovakia and Japan but Martino, also Argentinian, refuses to lay the blame totally at their door.

"One mustn't be too hard on our strikers," said 47-year-old. "If they aren't scoring well maybe it's because the balls aren't arriving fast enough to them."

Martino also believes opposing teams have been negative in their approach. "I hope that our next opponent will allow us to play differently and it won't be simply down to us to dictate the game," he said. "Against Spain, we should have more space, because they play to win," added Martino, who has been in charge since February 2007.

Barrios shrugged off the goal drought by saying the Paraguyan team ethic was not based around the individual. "The important thing is not who scores the goals, but that we formed a united squad which was capable of reaching the quarter-finals for the first time in the history of Paraguay," said Barrios.

Spain or Portugal?

Spain or Portugal?
(FIFA.com) Monday 28 June 2010
Spain or Portugal?
Getty Images
Poll
Which of the following players will make the biggest impact in the forthcoming Spain-Portugal game?

*

Cristiano Ronaldo (POR)
*

Simao
*

Fernando Torres (ESP)
*

David Villa (ESP)
*

Other

European champions Spain will bring their passing game to Cape Town for a meeting against their enigmatic rivals Portugal in what could prove to be a footballing highlight of the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™.

FIFA.com wants to hear who you think will win the Round of 16 contest between Vicente del Bosque's highly-fancied side and the Cristiano Ronaldo-inspired Portugal.

Simply click 'Add your comment' to join the discussion, remembering to keep your comments clean, respectful, on-topic and in English.

Argentina or Germany?

Argentina or Germany?
(FIFA.com) Sunday 27 June 2010
Argentina or Germany?
Getty Images
Poll
Which of the four winning teams to date impressed you most in the Round of 16?

*

Argentina
*

Germany
*

Ghana
*

Uruguay

Argentina and Germany were both highly impressed in the Round of 16. Now they will collide in what threatens to be an epic quarter-final.

FIFA.com wants to know who you think will emerge victorious in Cape Town next Saturday: Diego Maradona's Albiceleste or Joachim Low's Nationalelf?

Simply click ‘Add your comment’ to join the discussion, remembering to keep your comments clean, respectful, on-topic and in English.

Van Bronckhorst: I still get goose bumps

Van Bronckhorst: I still get goose bumps
(FIFA.com) Sunday 27 June 2010
Van Bronckhorst: I still get goose bumps
AFP

Giovanni van Bronckhorst is not the best player in the Netherlands team. He is, however, one of the side’s hardest workers, most experienced performers and leaders.

“I always try to run hard and give my best for the side,” said the humble captain, who, in his next breath, used the most flattering adjectives to describe his more acclaimed and creative team-mates like Robin van Persie, Wesley Sneijder and Arjen Robben, just back to fitness and hoping to reach the peak of his powers in Durban tomorrow. “I am thrilled with the way the team has been playing here in South Africa,” the steady left-back told FIFA.com.
We know what’s it’s like to go out of a tournament after one bad match. We do not want to feel it again.
Netherlands captain Giovanni van Bronckhorst

Having won a UEFA Champions League with Barcelona, the former Arsenal man knows a thing or two about what it takes to win trophies. “We’ve been putting in some strong, patient performances,” he went on, before admitting the three group-stage wins over Denmark, Japan and Cameroon left room for improvement.

“We can play better,” the 35-year-old Oranje captain – as good as a second coach out on the pitch – added. “In a tournament like this it’s a great thing if you can get results when you’re not playing at your best. This way you can build and get stronger, leaving room to improve as the games come.”

As the brass band, part of the travelling Dutch supporters’ circus, play on in the background, Van Bronckhorst knows there is serious work ahead. Meeting hungry outsiders Slovakia in the Round of16, there will be no margin for error.

“The pressure is mounting; this is true,” said the Feyenoord player. “The closer you get to the Final, the bigger the pressure is. This is natural. Not too many people were expecting Slovakia to reach the second round, but they deserve it,” added the Rotterdam-born player, who after 102 caps for his country still admits to “getting goose bumps every time” he pulls on the famous Oranje strip.

“We know what’s it’s like to go out of a tournament after one bad match,” added Van Bronckhorst, a member of the side that beat France and Italy at UEFA EURO 2008 before slumping to Russia in the first knockout round. He is hoping to avoid a similar fate here on South African soil. “It’s a familiar feeling actually, and we do not want to feel it again. I hope it will be different here,” said the man who was part of the Netherlands side that lost to Portugal in the last 16 at Germany 2006.
My ultimate dream is to say goodbye with the Trophy in my hands.
Netherlands left-back Giovanni van Bronckhorst

Perhaps the first world finals staged on the African continent will provide a new winner, which would be a first since 1998, when hosts France paraded the Trophy up and down the Champs-Elysées. Having been to the Final on two occasions in the 1970s, the Netherlands – European Champions in 1988 – have had little to put in their silverware case despite being considered historically among the chief innovators of the sport. Van Bronckhorst, who will retire after his last match here at the FIFA World Cup, is hoping it can end with a famous first for his country.

“My ultimate dream is to say goodbye with the Trophy in my hands,” he said, and as the brass band played a rousing rendition of the classic Dixieland standard ‘When the Saints go Marching in,’ he smiled and told FIFA.com: “We are a long way from home, but those fans give us a warm feeling and we want to give them something big to cheer about.”

Van der Vaart: The pressure's really on

Van der Vaart: The pressure's really on
(FIFA.com) Monday 28 June 2010
Van der Vaart: The pressure's really on
Getty Images

The Netherlands were one of two teams to reach the knockout phase having taken a maximum nine points. The Oranje’s reward was a Round of 16 meeting with a heavily unfancied Slovakia. FIFA caught up with attacking midfielder Rafael van der Vaart to discuss his and the Netherlands’ form so far, some of his country’s key players, their upcoming game and the Dutch chances of winning the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™.

FIFA.com: The Netherlands won three straight matches without playing their best football. Having had to work hard for those victories, can we say that the Dutch are mentally strong?
Rafael van der Vaart: Yes, for sure. I think we haven't been playing our best matches ever, but fortunately we didn't have to. But we won relatively easily and we are quite happy, because we played in a group with tough opponents. If you win three games and end up with nine points, you did a good job. Also, when you consider that we’re making progress, especially in the last match, then yes, it's starting to look good.

Were you happy with your personal performances in those matches?
The first two matches, not really. It was difficult for me because the spaces on the pitch were tight and I was playing in a position where I normally don't play. But in the last match it went very well. I played well and was on the ball a lot. I didn't misplace many passes, and that’s the way I like to play.

You have a lot of experience in other competitions. How different is it playing at a FIFA World Cup?
A World Cup is always something different. You play for your country and have the feeling that the whole world is watching. And as a country, you want to establish something that the whole world will talk about. At this moment the Netherlands have a strong team. The other teams are taking us into account, so I think that's a good thing for us. And of course there is a certain amount of pride because you’re playing at the highest level.

You are relatively young, but in the team you are the second-most experienced international. Do you feel that puts a special kind of pressure on your shoulders?
No, I think we’re all under the same amount of pressure. I already have 81 caps, that's a relevant amount and of course I'm very proud of it. You always want to be an important figure in the team, and I think with my experience I can be important. But we have a lot of really experienced players, because they all play with big clubs who play a lot of big matches, so that makes it easier to perform at a World Cup.

Slovakia are next up. Having eliminated Italy, you won’t be underestimating them?
No, definitely not. We were able to see the first half of the match between Slovakia and Italy, and I have to say I was impressed. They are physically very strong and they have a good team. So we have to take that into account for sure. But we have to be honest as well, and if we can play our own game and play a good match in which we all give one hundred per cent, we will win.

A team can lose a match in the group stage but still go through. Now, you lose and you’re out. Does that leave you under more pressure?
Well, you have to win every match now. In the group phase you also feel the pressure, but now the pressure is really on. One mistake can mean that you have to go home.
I think we have the quality to become champions – we are all convinced by this.
Netherlands playmaker Rafael van der Vaart

The Netherlands have quality, experienced players in every line: Stekelenburg in goal, Van Bronckhorst at the back, Sneijder in midfield, and Van Persie up front. How important is this?
Of course that is the most important thing. It all starts with the goalkeeper. He took over from [Edwin] Van der Sar, who was the best of the world. It's not easy to substitute a guy like that and if you succeed in doing that like he has, with only one conceded goal, which actually was my fault, that's great. He’s very good in one-on-one situations. Van Bronckhorst has already won 100 caps, is the captain, and is really important in the squad. Wesley [Sneijder] has had the best season of all our players. He's a fantastic player and has an incredible shot. Then there is Robin [van Persie], who came back from injury and has already been really important for us, especially in the last match when he scored a goal. He also gave an assist in the first match. He’s coming into form and is a fantastic player.

Finally, how far can the Netherlands go in this tournament?
It will be difficult. Of course, everybody thinks that we are one of the favourites. Everybody in the Netherlands wants us to finally become the world champions – we do too of course. It's something that we all really want and I think we have the quality to become champions – we are all convinced by this. But there are many strong countries in the competition. Now we have to play against Slovakia but if we win we will play Brazil or Chile. So, the further you get, the more fifty-fifty it will become.

Endo: We are mentally strong

Endo: We are mentally strong
(FIFA.com) Monday 28 June 2010
Endo: We are mentally strong
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One of the most consistent performers in Takeshi Okada’s Japan team, midfielder Yasuhito Endo played a key role in their 1-0 victory over Cameroon. After featuring prominently again in a narrow defeat against the Netherlands, Endo went on to justify his status as the reigning AFC Player of the Year in the 3-1 dismantling of Denmark, driving the midfield and scoring their second goal with a sublime free-kick.

Ahead of the Samaurai Blues' historic last-16 clash with Paraguay, the quietly spoken 30-year-old took time out to talk to FIFA about his scoring secrets, Japan’s strengths and their prospects for the remaining competition.

FIFA: You left your opponents in awe with your free-kick against Denmark. Do you have a special method or technique when taking set-pieces?
Yasuhito Endo: I took the free-kick as I always do, there was nothing special. But each time I have to take a different angle, if needed, when kicking.

Your next opponents are Paraguay, a team also known for their sublime passing techniques. What are your thoughts ahead of that match?
We have watched their games. They are really hard-working players and the team is quite creative. That said, we have a great deal in common so we must strive hard to defeat them.
We are mentally strong and we are now playing with a really positive attitude.
Yasuhito Endo, Japan midfielder

"Running football" and free-kicks are the things people mention when they talk of Japan's strengths, qualities which have helped you overcome Cameroon and Denmark to qualify for the second round. What is your view?
I think this is correct. We have put in a great deal of effort in training so we are able to move forward very strongly when the ball is passed. Set-pieces are also an important weapon for us. We are also strong when playing as a group. When you perform on the international stage you have to show your best otherwise you have no way of winning, and we must keep on doing that if we are to continue our good run.

When Japan qualified for South Africa 2010 a year ago, coach Takeshi Okada stated the team’s goal was to reach the semi-finals. Having made the Round of 16, are you confident that you will achieve that goal?
Yes, I am confident. I hope the forthcoming matches will turn out in our favour.

Japan used to be vulnerable when they played against physically stronger European teams, but having played so well against the Netherlands and Denmark, do you think you have learned how to cope with them?
First of all, we are mentally strong and we are now playing with a really positive attitude. In terms of tactics, we have changed a bit too, so the team are going in the right direction. Needless to say, our goal is to keep going like this and win games.

Chile lacked punch, admits Bielsa

Chile lacked punch, admits Bielsa
(AFP) Monday 28 June 2010
Chile lacked punch, admits Bielsa
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Chile coach Marcelo Bielsa admitted his side lacked the necessary punch to trouble Brazil on Monday after they were beaten 3-0 in and exited the FIFA World Cup™. Brazil have now set up a mouth-watering quarter-final against the Dutch in Port Elizabeth on Friday, while Chile licked their wounds after a sixth successsive loss to their South American rivals.

"I had hoped we would have got closer to Brazil, it wasn't such a one-way match. We had some good chances coming down the right side, but we lacked the necessary punch to convert dangerous situations into goals," said Bielsa. "We weren't able to attack with a real hunger for goals. We tried to score, we got close, but had few genuine chances to score."

After nearly three years in charge, the Argentinian said now is not the time to decide whether he will continue as Chile coach. After guiding Chile to South Africa, their first FIFA World Cup finals since France 98, a disappointed Bielsa said he will wait before deciding his future. "The situation is not right for an evaluation," he said. "You can never leave such a tournament without a feeling of disappointment. You would give anything to continue, I just feel sad and disappointed. I am sorry."

The Argentinian admitted his side were always playing catch-up against Brazil. "The players made a huge efffort to showcase their talent and prove their worth," said the 54-year-old. "Right or wrong, we tried to impose our methods within the idea of some noble play.
We weren't able to attack with a real hunger for goals. We tried to score, we got close, but had few genuine chances to score.
Marcelo Bielsa, Chile coach

"We fought hard, but it was a good and valuable performance. It is sad to know we are not in the tournament any longer. We have seen that it was difficult for us to get the ball towards the players who were free, where the spaces were open. But Brazil were quick to open up every crack in our defence.

"It is very hard when you are behind against Brazil, they take a corner and they have players queuing up, they have four men who can head the ball well and you never know where the attack is coming from. It is difficult to adapt when a team has such a huge advantage."

Bielsa admitted the gulf in class between his side and the star-studded Brazilians was too great to bridge. "The last half an hour we were able to work well, but it was shown today the gaps between the smaller and bigger teams do exist," he said. "Chile played well, but Brazil managed to score on every third attack and it is hard to cope with that. Maybe we could have conceded one less goal."

When asked by a Dutch journalist if there were weaknesses in Brazil's game for Netherlands coach Bert van Marwijk to exploit, Bielsa gave a curt reply. "I haven't really looked at Holland that closely, but how can I talk about Brazilian weaknesses after we lost 3-0?"

Brazil break back with a vengeance

Brazil break back with a vengeance
Robinho of Brazil (L) in action against Arturo Vidal of Chile

Having spent much of the group phase here at the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ complaining about their opponents’ defensive tactics, Brazil’s Round of 16 tie with Chile perfectly illustrated just why teams are reluctant to take the initiative against Dunga’s Seleção. Monday’s 3-0 success over La Roja featured two textbook counter-attacking goals from Luis Fabiano and Robinho, with the Chileans picked off when chasing a response to Juan’s headed opener.

“Chile proved they’re a team that try and play football, even when they come up against Brazil. That’s why we sometimes had space to show just how strong we are on the counter-attack,” said Brazilian No10 Kaka, whose clever pass for Fabiano’s goal was his third assist in three appearances at South Africa 2010.

Chilean philosophy
It was a similar story in the teams’ two meetings in South American Zone qualifying for these finals, with Brazil winning 3-0 in Santiago in September 2008 and 4-2 on home soil a year later. Despite these punishing lessons at Brazilian hands, Chile boss Marcelo Bielsa stuck to his attacking guns: a policy that helped La Roja qualify in second spot ahead of the likes of Paraguay, Argentina and Uruguay.

“If we started playing defensively it’d be a betrayal of the style we’ve always had. The way we play is why everybody’s been speaking so highly of Chile,” West Bromwich Albion defender Gonzalo Jara told FIFA. “Attacking football is something that sets us apart and we’re not going to stop that, whoever it is we’re up against. It’s part of our philosophy.”

However, captain and goalkeeper Claudio Bravo was more cautious on the subject. “We’re a young team, one of the youngest at this World Cup. At competitions to come I think we’ll iron out a few flaws, such as how we defend,” the No1 told FIFA. “We controlled possession for the first 30 minutes but Brazil are Brazil. They scored the first goal and soon after got the second, and once that went in we lost our way.”

"The quality to control the game"
Key to the five-time world champions' efficacy on the break at Ellis Park was Benfica midfielder Ramires, in for the injured Felipe Melo, whose ability to carry the ball forward from deep was particularly in evidence for his side’s third goal. It was the former Cruzeiro man who drove right through the Chilean midfield to the edge of the box, where the ball fell kindly for Robinho to place a shot into the corner.

“Of course it’s good for a team like ours to put some counter-attacks together, but I don’t think that’s the only positive thing. The fact we had the quality to control the game and avoid it becoming dangerous was also important,” Ramires told FIFA.com.

He then touched on perhaps the only negative of a comfortable night’s work for A Seleção: the yellow card that rules him out of the quarter-final with the Netherlands: “It’s a real shame. Of course I was annoyed, but I know how strong this squad is. All I can do now is hope my team-mates can take us through and I can rejoin them in the semi-finals.”

Up first in the last eight, however, are a Netherlands side which came through the group phase with a 100 per cent record. “We’ve not yet studied the Dutch to see how they’re going to line up. In theory, though, this could be another game for us to break forward,” said Kaka, when asked if the Oranje’s customary three-pronged forward line could leave them open to Brazil’s trademark counters. Netherlands coach Bert van Marwijk, you have been warned.

Torres: We've still to hit our stride

Torres: We've still to hit our stride
(FIFA.com) Monday 28 June 2010
Torres: We've still to hit our stride
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Fans of Spain and followers of the beautiful game everywhere could be found biting their nails when Fernando Torres went under the knife just one month before his national side’s pre-South Africa 2010 training camp. However, El Niño and his medical team have worked wonders to ensure the Liverpool returned from the operation on his knee to full fitness in time.

“I couldn’t make up my mind for a whole week,” said Torres, who has appeared in all three of La Selección’s games so far on his second trip to the finals. "I would have preferred not to have the operation, but in the end I had no option. It was sad to miss the end of the season with my club, but what kept up my hopes was the chance to come to the World Cup."

FIFA spoke exclusively to the 26-year-old, scorer of Spain’s winner in the final of UEFA EURO 2008 against Germany, ahead of the Round of 16 encounter with Portugal on 29 June in Cape Town.

FIFA: Fernando, would you say that you are beginning to improve game by game?
Fernando Torres: Playing again after an operation is always hard, especially as it was only two months ago. It’s hard to get your fitness back. But I’m feeling better bit by bit and everything’s coming more naturally. We worked hard to make sure I made it here, but now I’m just focusing on helping the team as much as I can.

Though you’re yet to open your account at the finals, David Villa is in red-hot form. What can you tell us about him?
David’s one of those players who only thinks about scoring. He can shoot and score with either foot and from inside or outside the box. He’s always a threat to opposing teams but they can’t tell which is his stronger foot or how to close him down. That’s why he’s so important to us. Plus he only needs four more goals to overtake Raul as Spain’s highest-ever goalscorer.
We managed to top our group and now it’s up to us to play the football we enjoy playing. We’re certain that the team’s going to get stronger.
Fernando Torres

You know a good few of the Portugal players very well. What’s your verdict on Portuguese football and how fierce is the rivalry between Spain and Portugal?
I think that Portugal have a very balanced team with a good blend of young and experienced players. They won’t be easy opponents. They had trouble qualifying but they’ve improved a lot at this World Cup and had a good group phase. The rivalry comes from the fact we’re neighbours and because there are so many players who have crossed the border to play in the other country. It’ll be a very intense game.

Spain coach Vicente del Bosque always asks you all to improve a little each game. What areas could you work on?
The boss wants us to rediscover our usual form. Spain still haven’t shown their best form or hit the heights we were hoping for. I think it has to do with the defeat against Switzerland. The fact we needed to win our subsequent games, along with the anxiety that brings, stopped us playing the way we would have liked. But now we’re at the stage we’d aimed to reach before we came here. We managed to top our group and now it’s up to us to play the football we enjoy playing. We’re certain that the team’s going to get stronger.

What has the coach asked of you ahead of the Portugal match?
I think that we didn’t press aggressively enough in our previous games. We didn’t play close enough to each other. We need to play more as a unit, especially against teams like Portugal who are very strong defensively and will wait for us to bring the game to them. They’ve not conceded a goal yet in South Africa, so a team like that will be very tough to break down. What’s more, they’ve got very dangerous forwards like [Cristiano] Ronaldo and Simao. That means a counter-attacking game would suit them, so that’s something we’ve got to avoid.

What’s your opinion on Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal’s biggest star?
His energy is incredible. He’s a player with quality to spare but he’s also willing to help out his team-mates. When his team is struggling and on the back foot, he’s always ready to receive the ball. He always wants to play and make an impact. Some of my Spain colleagues play alongside him at Real Madrid and say that he’s completely different to the public’s perception of him. He’s a great professional, is one of the first to arrive at training and then he stays afterwards to work out in the gym. Most of the time the image people have is different from the reality. I think that’s the case with all footballers. You have a different persona on and off the pitch.

Do you think Spain will finally hit their best form in time for the Portugal game?
It’ll be tough but I’m hoping Spain can produce their best football and, thanks to the support we've got, qualify for the next round. We’re in the knockout stages now and we’re in with a chance of becoming world champions, but we need to do our talking out on the pitch.

Capello admits England must change

Capello admits England must change
(AFP) Tuesday 29 June 2010
Capello admits England must change
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Fabio Capello has given an insight into how he sees the future England as he picks over the ashes of his team's FIFA World Cup™ exit. The England manager, who says he wants to stay in the post, has been told he must wait two weeks before his employers, the Football Association (FA), decide whether he will complete the two remaining years of his current contract, which takes him up to the end of the UEFA EURO 2012 finals.

But the Italian is already discussing ways of refreshing his team for the EURO 2012 qualifiers after seeing the way his experienced side, many of whom have played in two or even three previous major tournaments, failed to deliver.

With typical self confidence the former AC Milan, Juventus, Roma and Real Madrid manager feels he did everything right to prepare his team but was let down by his players, particularly in a 4-1 last-16 exit against Germany which was England's biggest FIFA World Cup finals defeat.

Now, his own future aside, the biggest debate in England is which players should be dropped and who should be brought in to rescue English football from yet another low point. Capello was, as expected, tight-lipped on the former of those two questions but happy to discuss the players who could potentially be drafted in for a new era next season.

"We talked about this with my staff," he said. "I think we will find two or three new players, probably, for the EURO. Adam Johnson, the Arsenal left-back Kieran Gibbs. Also Michael Dawson, although he is not young. Also Gabriel Agbonlahor and Bobby Zamora, who was injured this time. And another player we will hope will be fit is Owen Hargreaves.
Every game we played in this period, seven games in all including friendlies and at the World Cup, I never saw the players that I can see in the autumn or two months after Christmas.
Fabio Capello, England coach

"The best young players are in the under 21s and are not ready to play here at the World Cup. But I hope in the next year or six months people will come through. I hope Theo Walcott will be back and his shoulder is ok. And Jack Wilshere is another interesting player. I hope some good players will be ready in six months, it's possible."

Capello, who also hinted at a big future for goalkeeper Joe Hart, knows his brave new world with England will be subject to the same restrictions and problems that affected the current squad, however. With only 38 per cent of players in the Premier League eligible to play for England the talent pool remains shallow and the intense, physical nature of the league means injuries and tiredness are par for the course.

"I know a lot of things about the players and what happened," insisted Capello as he made a case for two more years in charge. "I know more now than before because I realised what happened when we arrived at the World Cup. I understand more things. And I understand one thing really important, I understand why England didn't win before. The England players arrive at the end of the season tired.

"Every game we played in this period, seven games in all including friendlies and at the World Cup, I never saw the players that I can see in the autumn or two months after Christmas. They were training well, were focused, but they are not the same players, not as fast or quick, as I know. I want to change something but it's impossible, there are too many games in the season. They play, Saturday, Wednesday, Saturday, Wednesday."

That, if Capello does remain in charge, could prove to be his biggest challenge, but he is adamant he wants a chance to prove he can change England's fortunes. "I prefer to stay," he insisted. "We need time to recover and be fresh."

Germany or England?

Germany or England?
(FIFA.com) Wednesday 23 June 2010
Germany or England?
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Poll
Five teams have scored five or more goals so far at South Africa 2010. Whose attacking play has impressed you the most?

*

Argentina
*

Brazil
*

Germany
*

Korea Republic
*

Portugal

It’s undoubtedly one of the biggest fixtures in international football: Germany versus England. It's now set to unfold on the biggest stage in the sport: at the FIFA World Cup™.

FIFA.com wants to hear who you think will win Sunday's Round of 16 match between Joachim Low’s Nationalelf and Fabio Capello’s Three Lions.

Simply click ‘Add your comment’ to join the discussion, remembering to keep your comments clean, respectful, on-topic and in English.

Jordaan: Bafana did their jersey and their country proud

Jordaan: Bafana did their jersey and their country proud
(LOC) Tuesday 22 June 2010
Jordaan: Bafana did their jersey and their country proud
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“Bafana Bafana are out of the World Cup but they won the hearts and minds of all South Africans and the whole world tonight,” said 2010 FIFA World Cup Organising Committee South Africa (OC) CEO Danny Jordaan after South Africa’s final group stage match against France in Mangaung/Bloemfontein tonight.

South Africa won the match but it was not enough for the host nation to progress past the group stage of the tournament.

“Yes they did not make it past the group stage but they did what the country asked of them – they played with pride, passion, skill and commitment, they gave their best. They did the national team jersey and every single South African proud and we want to thank them for what they’ve done for this country,” he added.

Jordaan also thanked South Africans for the tremendous support they have shown for the South African team.

“The passion and enthusiasm we have seen across the length and breadth of South Africa in recent weeks has made this tournament truly come alive for locals and visitors alike,” he said.

Jordaan does not believe that South Africa’s exit will affect the overall success of the tournament.

“It may be over for Bafana Bafana but it is not over for South Africa. This is still South Africa’s World Cup. We are not going home, the World Cup is happening in our home,” he said.

“South Africans have already proven their support for Team South Africa. Without millions of them we would not have delivered ten world-class stadiums, opened new airports, highways and train stations in record time or welcomed hundreds of thousands of new visitors to our country. We would not have already hosted more than half of the World Cup matches successfully,” he explained.

“I remain confident that South Africans will continue to be fantastic hosts for the next two and a half weeks and make the most of this incredible time in our country’s history, which has already seen us achieve so much,” said Jordaan.

Jordaan said that support for the tournament to date has met all expectations with a total of 1 570 447 people attending the first 32 matches (an average of 49,076). More than a million people have watched the matches at the ten FIFA Fan Fests in South Africa and hundreds of thousands more have watched the games in public viewing areas around the country, with World Cup matches also shattering television audience records in the country.

Durban has proved to be the most popular FIFA Fan Fest with 238,546 visitors from the start of the tournament until 20 June.

Bradley: This is our time

Bradley: This is our time
(FIFA.com) Tuesday 22 June 2010
Bradley: This is our time
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The USA have established themselves at these finals in South Africa as a side with bags of heart and a never-say-die spirit. After a hard-fought draw with pre-tournament favourites England and a dramatic fightback against Slovenia, Michael Bradley – holding midfielder and son of coach Bob – has looked the virtual personification of that determination and fire.

The Borussia Monchegladbach man – mature beyond his 22 years – sat down for an exclusive chat on the eve of the make-or-break third Group C game against Algeria in Pretoria. With a focus that defines this likeable Stars and Stripes side, the topics open for discussion were the dramatic match against Slovenia, his role in the team and the general togetherness in the camp.

FIFA: With two points from your first two games, you need a result against Algeria. How are you feeling in the build-up?
Michael Bradley: We have 90 minutes to get ourselves into the next round. We know it's going to be a hard game, but it's a big game, and as a player these are the kinds of games you love to play in, with everything on the line. We have a big chance to get ourselves into the Round of 16.

You play with a lot of intensity. Does playing at the World Cup bring that intensity out?
No. I try to play like that every time I step on the field. It doesn't matter for me if it's a World Cup or a league match, or training. I am who I am as a player, and it's important to know the things that I do that help my team. I always try to bring that to the table.

You're a holding midfielder, but you managed to score the equaliser against Slovenia. Did you sense something was there for the taking, is that why you pushed up?
Not really. We were down 2-0 at the half, and we knew that we had to push the game. We really had to push the tempo and run and fight and battle for every ball, and get forward and get back. We needed to have the commitment to do that until the final whistle. I just tried to size up things on the field and to see if there was a way where I could get forward and get a chance – and so the ball went forward to Jozy [Altidore], and I just tried to move off of him.
I think there's going to be a real feeling of excitement on Wednesday. This is our time and we're ready to go.
Michael Bradley, USA midfielder

It was a pretty good finish too.
It was a great ball from Landon [Donovan], and then Jozy did incredibly well to be strong and then to head it down right in my path. I just needed to make sure I put it in.

There seems to be a great togetherness in the team.
One of the big things about our team is the mentality and the spirit that we have. We enjoy being around one another, we enjoy spending time with each other, and I think you really see that come out on the field. When we get in tough spots, or things don't go our way, there's still a real feeling of togetherness and fight and just sticking by one another. You need that in the toughest of times.

Maurice Edu's goal was disallowed near the end. Can you talk about your feelings on being so close to a winner?
The emotions of a game like that run high. When you think you've won and then the goal is called back it's an emotional moment. Let's be honest – that's one of the things that makes football such a great game. Now there's nothing more we can do about it, and the focus on our end is 100 per cent towards the game on Wednesday.

Is confidence high going into the Algeria game?
We have confidence in ourselves as a team, and as a player you want to play in the biggest games, where the spotlight comes on the brightest. I think there's going to be a real feeling of excitement on Wednesday. This is our time and we're ready to go. We'll give everything we have.

Dutch gain from Kuyt graft

Dutch gain from Kuyt graft
(FIFA.com) Wednesday 23 June 2010
Dutch gain from Kuyt graft
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Born in the tiny fishing village of Katwijk aan Zee, Dirk Kuyt has brought his unglamorous qualities of grit and determination to bear on the Netherlands national team here at the FIFA World Cup™.

Not the flashiest of players, the Liverpool striker – equally at home playing out wide – puts in the hard minutes in each and every game, fighting for every ball, tracking back to help defend and even chipping in with the odd goal. And while some might bemoan the lack of carefree style in this organised incarnation of the Oranje, renowned through the years for their invention and panache, Kuyt stresses their focus on one thing: points.

"Who could complain about these results," he asks FIFA.com rhetorically. "Six points from two games is as much as any team can hope for," adds the man who did all the yeoman work in the 1-0 win over Japan in Durban, having scored an opportunistic goal in their opening 2-0 victory over Denmark. "It's very important to start a tournament like the World Cup with positive results, and then build from there."

The Netherlands can afford to relax a little in their final Group E match against already-eliminated Cameroon, having become the first team to secure passage to the Round of 16. However, Kuyt is unlikely to rest on his laurels. Gone, it seems, are the days of Total Football and the 'sexy football' with which the twice FIFA World Cup runners-up became the nearly men of the global game.

"What I try to do as a player is work hard, fight for the ball," he says, half-laughing at the suggestion that he has become the symbol of this new, pragmatic Dutch approach. "Obviously every team wants to perform well, play well, get the good results and score more goals and great goals, but this is the World Cup and every opponent can hurt you," says the player who began his professional career with FC Utrecht before hitting 71 goals in 100 appearances for Feyenoord, where he was predictably adored by the working-class supporters in Rotterdam.
It’s very important to start a tournament like the World Cup with positive results, and then build from there.
Dirk Kuyt, Dutch striker

Kuyt earned his first cap for the Netherlands under former boss Marco van Basten. His inclusion then was a surprise to many but he has since amassed 65 international appearances and was a member of the Dutch side that flattered to deceive at UEFA EURO 2008, losing out to Russia after looking in the group stages like the swashbuckling Oranje sides of old with heavy wins over France and Italy. It is something the player is eager to avoid here in South Africa, as the Dutch aim for their first world title.

"There is nothing wrong with sitting back a little and waiting for your chances and being patient," he said to FIFA.com after the 1-0 win against Japan which looked the epitome of patience on a football field. "We've been controlling our games here. We know we have the players to create the one or two chances that we'll need to get goals. We are the kind of team that will always create chances."

It seems as if the Dutch have struck a balance between the brilliance of old and the realities of the modern game. With world stars like Wesley Sneijder and Robin van Persie pulling the strings and the likes of Kuyt, Nigel de Jong and Marc van Bommel putting in the muscle and work, they might well have a chance at putting the old disappointments right. For Kuyt, it is so far, so good at least. "We have controlled both of the games, waited for our chances and scoring when we pushed forward. I couldn't be happier with the way things are going."

Youthful Germans deliver under pressure

Youthful Germans deliver under pressure
Philipp Lahm of Germany and Jonathan Mensah of Ghana

Prior to a win-or-bust Group D finale against Ghana, many were asking if the youngest Germany FIFA World Cup™ squad in 76 years would be able to cope with the pressure. After 90 enthralling minutes at Soccer City in Johannesburg, the answer was a qualified yes.

The 80,000 crowd saw the Germans throw themselves into the task at hand, after shaking off their obvious early nerves. "We were determined to win and make the last 16 as group winners," central midfielder Sami Khedira exclusively told FIFA. "And we deserved the victory. Overall, it was a good performance, although we allowed the pace to drop at the start, which only encouraged Ghana."

The three-time FIFA World Cup winners certainly looked hesitant at times in the opening half-hour. "You could see our young team struggling to cope with the pressure," said Germany boss Joachim Low in the post-match news conference. "But these are the games you have to win. We’ve done it, and I’m delighted."

Captain Philipp Lahm, who combined solid defence with a number of threatening raids down the right flank, acknowledged the trial by fire experienced by some of the players. "The pressure was on, but we coped. It was a big game for us, because we were utterly determined to make the last 16, and we're there."
The meeting with England will be the highlight of my career to date.
Cacau, Germany striker.

Much rested on the shoulders of lone striker Cacau, making his first FIFA World Cup start as a stand-in for the suspended Miroslav Klose. "It was tough going at times, but my job was to help the team. Fortunately, it worked out," the 29-year-old told FIFA.com. But were the German team kept informed of the scoreline between Australia and Serbia during the match? "No, we were totally focused on our own game, and that was for the best."

The spotlight also fell on Jerome Boateng, asked to play in the unfamiliar left-back slot. Time and again, he crossed paths with no less a Ghana star than his half-brother Kevin-Prince. "We took a while to settle,” Germany's Boateng acknowledged, "our passing wasn't as accurate as normal."

However, the single-goal victory was enough for the Germans to top their group for the sixth time in a row at the finals and seal a berth in the last 16, where arch-rivals England await on Sunday. "It'll be a cracking match and we're looking forward to it," declared Low. "Any meeting with England is huge, and we'll be up for it," added Lahm, "we're looking forward to it with confidence, although we know there are things we have to do better."

Cacau for one can hardly wait for Sunday. "The meeting with England will be the highlight of my career to date. We'll have to improve, but we have a good chance." In the event the clash at Free State stadium in Mangaung/Bloemfontein proves a knife-edge affair, the small matter of good fortune could well play a decisive role. "And we rode our luck at times tonight," Lahm confessed.

Bradley: Something special

Bradley: Something special
(AFP) Thursday 24 June 2010
Bradley: Something special
Getty Images

Landon Donovan was moments from reliving his worst football heartache, a first-round FIFA World Cup™ exit, when he scored the most important goal of his life to send the United States into the knockout rounds.

The 28-year-old midfielder has battled divorce, unconvincing stints in Europe and first-round disappointment at the 2006 FIFA World Cup but netted the defining goal of his career in stoppage time on Wednesday to snatch a 1-0 victory over Algeria.

"I have been through a lot in the last four years," Donovan said, breaking into tears. "I'm so glad it culminated in this way. It makes me believe in the good in this world. When you try to do things the right way it's nice to get rewarded."

The US spent 90 minutes trying in vain to crack the Desert Foxes before Donovan led a counter-attack by flicking a pass to Jozy Altidore, then running onto an unguarded rebound to slide the ball home in the early seconds of injury time.

"The guys in the back did an unbelievable job of stopping counter after counter to give us a chance so we could get it," Donovan said. "A lot of us broke. I wanted to make a good touch forward. I chose Jozy and Clint [Dempsey] did a good job to get in front of the goalie and it just bounced there. Time kind of stopped. You can't miss from there."
When you try to do things the right way it's nice to get rewarded.
Landon Donovan, USA midfielder

A draw would have sent the Americans home early once again but victory allowed the US squad to finish top of Group C, edging England on goals scored, and book a Saturday match in the round of 16 at Rustenburg.

"Sometimes in soccer you have games like that where you get a lot of chances and they don't go in," Donovan said. "The only thing you can control is if you keep playing."

Such perseverance has summed up Donovan's career and life lately. He failed in three tries at playing in the Bundesliga, only to find success in England early this year during a loan spell at Everton, scoring twice in 13 matches for the Toffees.

Donovan split last July with actress Bianca Kajlich, but said last month that he learned from her and from his disappointment at the US first-round 2006 FIFA World Cup exit and that it has made him a better person. "There were two [lows] really. Soccer was after the 2006 World Cup. Personally was July of last year," Donovan said.

"These experiences can harden you and help you grow if you learn from them and look at them the right way. I've done something to get a lot out of those experiences and tonight it all came together."

US coach Bob Bradley was thrilled by Donovan's decisive intervention. "Without a doubt, Landon has grown in so many different ways," Bradley said. "These challenges came at a good time for him. In 2002, he was young - your first World Cup is really exciting - and 2006 is one where he learned a lot."

Donovan's goal brought an end to an afternoon at Loftus Versfeld that began with the Americans' bus being tapped and cheered by US supporters lining the streets. "To have that happen at a World Cup in South Africa, that was a really special feeling," Bradley said. "To finish the night off with a great win with the support we had, that was something special."

Cahill signs off on a positive note

Cahill signs off on a positive note
Tim Cahill of Australia celebrates scoring

Australia's South African adventure may have come to an early end but their talismanic midfielder Tim Cahill was nothing but positive after the Socceroos signed off their FIFA World Cup™ campaign with victory over Serbia. Even though they had fallen just short on goal difference to Ghana in Group D, the returning Cahill – wrapped in an Australian flag and wearing a yellow and blue jester's hat – seemed the picture of contentment after the Socceroos had left the Mbombela Stadium pitch to a standing ovation.

After a scoreless first half in Nelspruit, Australia came out and stunned Serbia by taking a two-goal lead before a late reply made the final score 2-1. Cahill, sent off during the Germany loss that opened their tournament and suspended for the ensuing draw with Ghana, scored the opener that breathed life into the Aussies' campaign and left them in with a shout of reaching the knockout stage.

And while he said immediately after that the win was "not that sweet", Cahill admitted that it was at least a positive. In fact, he balked when it was suggested that victory had a taste of the bitter to it. "No, I wouldn't say that even," he told FIFA.com. "It's unbelievable to have played in the World Cup after last week. I didn't even know if I would get another chance to play here. There was a lot of discussion after the Germany game, whether it was my fault to get sent off or not, but it made me want to come back, and come back and play great."
There's no doubt, he's always there when you need him
Pim Verbeek, Australia coach

Although they were already two goals down by the time Cahill was shown red in the 56th minute against the Germans, it is hard not to wonder how different things may have been if he had not been sent off and missed the 1-1 draw with the Black Stars. "Oh no, it was great anyway," he said. "If we beat Ghana, yeah you know, but that's in hindsight. It's over now, and this was a great result. Now we just have to look past it and take the positives, and the positive is we've shown what we can do, we've got great team spirit and we've got loads of young talent coming through.”

When asked about Cahill's importance to the Aussies, outgoing coach Pim Verbeek said the "impact player" was one of the most consistent and important on his side. "There's no doubt, he's always there when you need him," the Dutchman told FIFA.com "He's always scored goals. His work-rate is fantastic. The team feels more confident when he is out there, so we missed him after the sending-off against Germany and then especially against Ghana. It was a big loss, but he showed today how much he can help the team."

While Cahill would admit to being one of the leaders of the team, he was quick to say after the match that the Asian representatives were a unit that "have no heroes". But typical of his bustling style, he said he prefers to lead through action. "I think being asked to lead is fantastic, but you have to show it on the pitch. I work hard for my team and run from the first minute to the very end." His 69th-minute goal, which brought a noticeable spark to the yellow-clad side, was a perfect example. From a long cross from the left wing, the Serbia defence seemingly had it covered, but the battling Cahill showed more determination and timing than his rival to sneak in and head the ball past the stunned goalkeeper.

But like the leader that he is, Cahill was quick to credit his team-mate for the pass. "It was a great ball from Wilko [Luke Wilkshire] and that was it," he said before describing the moment. "I've been working hard the last couple of days on making solid contact and letting the ball do the work instead of trying to hit it so hard. I just tried to put it in the corner, and I'm just buzzing that it went in."

Xavi: I’m a footballing romantic

Xavi: I’m a footballing romantic
(FIFA.com) Wednesday 23 June 2010
Xavi: I’m a footballing romantic
Getty Images

Having bounced back from their shock defeat against Switzerland with a vital victory over Honduras in their second Group H game, Spain now face another decisive encounter against an impressive Chile side protecting a 100 per cent record.

Ahead of Friday’s eagerly anticipated encounter, FIFA spoke to La Selección’s midfield metronome Xavi about the team’s silky style of play, dressing room togetherness and their African adventures.

FIFA: Spain have a style of play which is distinctively theirs, with Johan Cruyff moved to state that, even in defeat against Switzerland, La Roja played the better football. What’s your view?
Xavi: Yes, I’m a footballing romantic just like Cruyff. We like football that is attractive, attacking and easy on the eye. When you win playing like this it’s twice as satisfying. Switzerland’s tactics won them the game; they were trying to find a way to nullify us. They set out to play for a draw but ended up winning the match. I don’t know how it feels to win by playing that way because it’s not something I’ve experienced. I’ve always played attacking football: my footballing ideals are very clear and well-defined. I’ve grown up at Barcelona with that style and that’s the one I like. I think it’s good to win like that, by taking the initiative right from the off.
I think that Spanish football fans can identify with national-team players because we’re a group of very normal, very hard-working people who love the game.
Xavi

What’s your verdict on South Africa 2010 so far?
Well to be honest we’ve still not seen too much nice football at this World Cup. That said, Argentina and Germany, for example, play really well and are two teams which go out to win their games. Germany were better than Serbia and we were better than Switzerland but you can’t win if you don’t score. The African teams have really gone for it too, but they’ve not had much luck. It’s a real shame that every team doesn’t play attacking football.

You were part of the Spain side which won the 1999 edition of the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Nigeria. What do you remember of that success on African soil?
We won that World Cup by beating Japan 4-0 in the final. Iker Casillas and Carlos Marchena were also in that team and here we are, back in Africa, once again. In all honesty it’s quite a nice coincidence.

What kind of an impact did winning that world title have?
It really helped a great generation of players to make the breakthrough. It coincided with the introduction of the Bosman ruling in Spain and so back then there wasn’t a great deal of faith shown in Spanish players. So I think that title came at a very good time. There are a few players of that generation still playing at top clubs, it was a great achievement and it took place here in Africa. What lovely memories!

So, Casillas, Marchena and you all know how it feels to be crowned world champions.
It’s such a thrill, a wonderful feeling. We hit the heights at U-20 level but of course the senior World Cup is a different proposition. That said, we do feel like we’re capable of doing it again. At that competition we beat Brazil 2-0 in the first round and from then on we began to believe we had a chance. We’ve started this year’s competition very badly but perhaps this setback will make us stronger and we can do something great. And of course, we’re hoping to make it to the Final.

A lot of the Spanish players go back a long way, but how does the squad handle issues such as club rivalries between the Real Madrid and Barcelona contingents? Is friendship an important part of this squad?
I think that Spanish football fans can identify with national-team players because we’re a group of very normal, very hard-working people who love the game. It doesn’t matter if a player is from Madrid or from Barcelona. We’re all playing for the same country and we’re a crop of players that gives their very best for this sport and puts everything else to one side. We simply love football and whatever club team we play for, here we all pull on the same shirt.

We’ve got a great friendship going in the dressing room. I think it’s very important to have a good atmosphere within the squad and Iker, the captain, is often the first to try and foster that. He loves a joke and he’s a very humble and very normal guy. He likes to get the squad together and for us to do things together. It’s wonderful having him as captain, a real privilege.

Hamsik: This game will be like a Final

Hamsik: This game will be like a Final
(FIFA.com) Wednesday 23 June 2010
Hamsik: This game will be like a Final
AFP

Anyone hoping to gauge Marek Hamsik’s importance to Slovakia could do worse than mention the young playmaker’s name to Vladimir Weiss. “Marek is exceptionally gifted,” says the Slovakia coach. “He’s a world-class player and a wonderful kid as well. He’s always put in great performances wherever I’ve positioned him, and it’s for all those reasons that I decided to make him captain.” A glowing reference, but if the Repre have managed just a point from their two 2010 FIFA World Cup™ outings so far, their talented leader’s ponderous form looms prominently as a factor. So effective for Italian club Napoli after moving to Serie A in 2004, the 22-year-old is yet to hit the heights familiar to fans of the Partenopei.

Nicknamed Marieko, he has nonetheless been granted the perfect opportunity to turn things around and spark a Slovakian comeback on the global stage. Fresh from a season in which he hit 12 goals for Napoli and helped them claim a UEFA Europa League berth, Hamsik will be desperate to make his mark against Italy on Thursday. FIFA caught up with the youthful schemer ahead of that crucial encounter, in which he will be reacquainted with so many players he knows well from domestic jousts.

FIFA: After the 1-1 draw with New Zealand and the 2-0 loss to Paraguay, do you still think Slovakia can progress from Group F?
Marek Hamsik: I’m really disappointed that we conceded a goal right at the end of our first match. If we’d won it, we’d have complete control of our own destiny. We’d have three points, Italy would have two and the situation would have been different. Now the door is only half-open.

Have you been satisfied with the team’s performances?
Of course not. We could have done better. We haven’t showed the best of ourselves and in our last group game we absolutely have to demonstrate that we’ve made improvements.

What have you learnt from those two games on a personal level?
In a World Cup, every match is complicated and you come across quality teams. I’m ashamed that we conceded that unlucky goal against New Zealand. If we’d won that game, we’d have a different mindset now. After that, Paraguay gave us a footballing lesson and they really put in a great performance.

You face Italy next and that is sure to be a special match for you.
All the matches in this tournament are special. This one will undoubtedly be no exception, except that I know all the players in Serie A. Italy is my second home and I’ve been living there for seven years now; I even feel a little Italian. Yes, this match will have a special importance for me.

Have you been surprised by Italy’s slow start in this tournament?
We knew beforehand that Paraguay and Italy are two teams who play quality football. Paraguay have proved that and, as far as I’m concerned, Italy have played really well. Their match against Los Guaraníes was evenly balanced, as expected, and against New Zealand they controlled the whole match and were just unable to take their chances. They’re obviously very disappointed to only have two points, so for them as well as us this game will be like a final.

The draw between Italy and New Zealand has left Slovakia with a chance of going through.
Yes, New Zealand have shown us how you need to play to compete with them and they defended heroically. The ideal approach would therefore be to defend well and combine that with effective counter-attacks.

Which Italy player will you need to pay particular attention to?
All their players can create danger; every player in the Italy team is world-class, whether in attack, defence or midfield. I’d probably single out Andrea Pirlo, who plays a vital role. He’s the keystone of the team, everything goes through him and he picks out wonderful passes. He’s the brains of the side.

Do you think Italy’s style will suit Slovakia?
It’s difficult to say. In personal terms, Serie A suits me, but things are different at international level. I think the Italians are well-prepared for the type of game this will be, so it’s not going to be an easy match for us.

You left Slovakia for Italy at a young age. Was that difficult for you?
Yes. I was young and I didn’t speak their language, but my team-mates helped me a lot and I quickly made sure I learnt Italian. I think it’s a huge advantage to know the language of the country you’re going to play in.

Lastly, what qualities will you be relying on to beat Italy?
Our fighting spirit shouldn’t be underestimated. We’ll give everything. We’ve got nothing to lose and that could be to our advantage.

Olsen surprised by Japan tactical shift

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Olsen surprised by Japan tactical shift
(AFP) Thursday 24 June 2010
Olsen surprised by Japan tactical shift
AFP

Denmark coach Morten Olsen has voiced his surprise that Japan opted to change their tactical approach just before the FIFA World Cup™, but admitted the move has been successful.

Olsen was struck by the difference between the high-tempo pressing game Japan played in a friendly against the Netherlands last year, when they lost 3-0 after dominating for the first hour, and the more cautious approach in their 1-0 defeat by the Dutch in their second Group E match in South Africa.

"They are a little more defensive, that is right," Olsen said ahead of his side's must-win meeting with the Japanese on Thursday evening. "They played with high pressure then and they play with low pressure now."

The switch has not affected Olsen's admiration for Japan's quality and he knows his injury-hit squad face a tough battle to overcome opponents who only need a draw to reach the last 16 of a FIFA World Cup for the first time on foreign soil.

"I said before the tournament that Japan was one of the teams that could surprise people who know nothing about Asian football," Olsen said. "They fight for each other and the team. You saw the Dutch team, with all the quality that they have, they had many problems against Japan. But my team can perform better than we have done so far and that is what we will need to do."
They [Japan] played with high pressure then [in qualifying] and they play with low pressure now.
Morten Olsen, Denmark coach

Asked to sum up his mood going into the match, Olsen replied: "I'm excited but not nervous. If you are not excited before a match like this you should stop as a coach. I trust my team but even if have a good day we can still lose. We hope for a lucky punch."

Olsen would not be drawn on whether Denmark's height advantage could make the difference, as has been widely predicted in the build-up to the match. Per Kroldrup, the Fiorentina defender who is expected to replace the suspended Simon Kjaer, was more forthcoming. "Yes, that's something we hope we can benefit from, that we are perhaps stronger than the Japanese in the air," he said.

Olsen has rubbished suggestions that his squad, one of the oldest in the tournament, has passed its peak. Pointing at the 32-year-old former Chelsea winger Jesper Gronkjaer, Olsen asked: "What's 32? He can still play for eight years. If a player is fit and not tired of playing it is fantastic.

"They have experience. They have played in European cups, World Cups, they know each other, as human beings as well as their strengths and weaknesses as players. They are quality players because they have been able to keep a high level for a long time."

Olsen has described Arsenal forward Nicklas Bendtner as doubtful for the match because of a groin injury which restricts his training to alternate days. It would be a major surprise however if Bendtner did not start a match in which Denmark will be aiming to maintain the country's proud record of always progressing beyond the first round when they make it to the FIFA World Cup finals.

FIFA World Magazine

FIFA World Magazine

There is no mistaking the main topic of discussion in the latest issue of FIFA World as our special June/July double issue concentrates solely on the global footballing extravaganza that is the 2010 FIFA World Cup™.

The bumper-sized edition takes an in-depth look at all of the 32 teams who have qualified for the South African showdown as well as the star players who could make the difference between an early flight home or glory in the tournament final in Johannesburg on 11 July. We also go beyond the top players and likely line-ups to examine some of the wider social stories involving the participating teams. Find out, for example, why Dutch fans will feel at home in South Africa, the power that football has over the peoples of Honduras and Uruguay, and which of the rival group-stage coaches are regular five-a-side buddies.

As well as looking forward, we are of course happy to also look back, with a summary of all 18 previous FIFA World Cup™ tournaments and a collection of 80 World Cup facts and anecdotes – representing one fact for every year since the competition began in 1930, and ranging from the glorious to the bizarre. And for those who do not know their Elephants from their Desert Foxes, we also offer a light-hearted explanation of the national team nicknames that will abound during the latest instalment of football’s most prestigious tournament.

Of course, and as always with FIFA World, we are not only focused on the purely sporting side of the proceedings. Inside the latest issue, you can also read about the tournament’s fascinating hosts, as South Africa completes its impressive transformation from former international outcast under the old apartheid regime to the multicultural “Rainbow Nation” which is now opening its arms to the world’s football fans. We explain too how the 2010 FIFA World Cup is offering a chance for the footballing world to give something back to Africa, with social development projects such as the Football for Hope Festival and 20 Centres for 2010 combining with football development programmes such as Win in Africa with Africa to ensure lasting improvements for the whole of Africa, and long beyond 2010.

By clicking on the links below you can read an online version of the magazine or download it. You will also find links and documents on the right-hand side providing further information on the stories featured in the magazine, an archive section below allowing you to access back issues of the magazine, along with details on how to subscribe to the magazine’s printed version.

As always, we are keen to hear what you think about the magazine, so please send us your comments via the feedback link.

Whether you are browsing through the pages during the nervous build-up to the tournament, or flicking through the articles during a break in the action, we wish you a happy read – and of course a highly enjoyable 2010 FIFA World Cup!

Best wishes,

The FIFA World team
fifa.com
FIFA World June/July 2010
(FIFA.com)
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Blatter meets Danish Minister of Culture

Blatter meets Danish Minister of Culture
(FIFA.com) Saturday 19 June 2010
Blatter meets Danish Minister of Culture
Getty Images

FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter met with the Danish Minister of Culture, Per Stig Moller, ahead of the Group E encounter between Denmark and Cameroon in Pretoria on Saturday.

Also present at the meeting with the FIFA President were the Minister's special adviser Steen Kyed, advisor Torben Hoffeldt and the President of both the Danish Sports Federation and the Danish Olympic Committee, Niels Nygaard.

Among the subjects up for discussion were the 6+5 rule and the need to widen that debate to include other team sports, as well as the issue of sport's specificity as enshrined in the Treaty of Lisbon and the importance of football development.
At FIFA, we have the Football for Hope programme which, through football, provides help in the fields of education and health in particular
Joseph S. Blatter

"One of the positive aspects of the World Cup, I think, is that it unites people and connects them," said the Danish Minister of Culture. "Yes, football and FIFA have an undeniable social role to play," responded Blatter. "At FIFA, we have the Football for Hope programme which, through football, provides help in the fields of education and health in particular. We also support the 1GOAL: education for all campaign, which has the same goals."

Both men were likewise keen to laud the positive values that football helps spread, such as respect and discipline. "I want to thank the Denmark Football Association for their work in the realm of development," added the FIFA President. "I believe that together we can build a better future and establish football as a pillar of society."
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FIFA President saddened by singer's death

FIFA President saddened by singer's death
(FIFA.com) Wednesday 26 May 2010
FIFA President saddened by singer's death
AFP

Following the sad news of the sudden death of Siphiwo Ntshebe who was due to perform at the Opening Ceremony of the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ on 11 June, FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter has today sent a message of condolence to the singer's family, courtesy of the 2010 FIFA World Cup Organising Committee South Africa.

“I am very sad indeed to hear this news" said Joseph S. Blatter in his message. "This young man, whose talent had been identified and supported by no less than Nelson Mandela was about to showcase that talent to millions of people around the world. That he should pass away so suddenly, and so close to the opening of the first FIFA World Cup to be hosted on African soil is very cruel, but we are not master of our destiny."

On behalf of himself and the entire football family, the FIFA President has asked the 2010 FIFA World Cup Organising Committee South Africa to convey his sincerest condolences to the family of Mr Ntshebe and to the South African public at their loss. The FIFA President will also convey his sympathy in person to the Organising Committee on his arrival in Johannesburg tomorrow.