8 Players to watch out for in South Africa 2010

Since there are just 13 days till this year’s World Cup, Real Talk Football have looked over the 32 teams and will highlight the player from each group to look out for, and discuss what they bring to the table for their countries campaign.

Group A

Name: Luis Suarez
Country: Uruguay
Age: 23
Position: Striker/Attacker
Int Caps: 29
Int Goals: 10



The Ajax front man was handed the captaincy of the Dutch side due to Thomas Vermaelen’s transfer to Arsenal. The striker is one of the most converted strikers in Europe and it is believed Chelsea have first option on the 23 year old. He has also been liked with AC Milan, Manchester United and Arsenal.

Suarez has excellent technical ability, skill and acceleration. He has dominated the Dutch league over the past few seasons, scoring 84 goals in 126 appearances. However players such as Mateja Kezman and Afonso Alves failed to replicate their tremendous goal scoring record outside of Holland, so it will be interesting to see if Suarez gets his move abroad, and if it’s an eventual success. With his natural ability and talent, he is more than capable of slotting into a top European side.





Group B

Name: Angel Di Maria
Country: Argentina
Age: 21
Position: Left Midfield
Int Caps: 8
Int Goals: 1



I’m sure everyone has heard this individuals name in the last 6 months; he has been instrumental to his club side Benfica’s return to prominence in the Portuguese league. The left winger has been touted with a move to many of Europe’s big clubs including Liverpool and most likely suitors Real Madrid.

Renowned for his excellent dribbling ability, technique and long shot, the 21 year old is part of Diego Maradona’s 23 man squad and is expected to be competing for the left midfield spot as he takes part in his first World Cup. Look out him, he’ll be wearing the number 27 shirt.



Group C

Name: Maurice Edu
Country: USA
Age: 24
Position: Centre Midfield
Int Caps: 13
Int Goals: 1



The 24 year old plays for Glasgow Rangers in Scotland, and is a bullish tough tackling midfielder with excellent stamina, speed as well football ability. He can attack, pass effectively and is competent enough to play in different positions. He has 13 caps for USA and was instrumental in helping them qualify. Only injuries have hampered Edu’s career somewhat but should he stay fit, he could go onto greater things.

Edu was the 2007 MLS rookie of the year in America, before he joined Rangers. Now making his first appearance at the World Cup, expect him to compete for the central midfield role, while his versatility allows for him to slot in a centre back in need be.



Group D

Name: Mesut Ozil
Country: Germany
Age: 21
Position: Attacking Midfielder
Int Caps: 8
Int Goals: 1



Touted as one of the most exciting and promising young playmakers, the Werder Bremen German born player of Turkish descent is playing at his first World Cup. Creativity, flair, technique, agility; just some of the words used to describe the individual’s game, subsequently leading to him being linked to some of Europe’s big names, however it is more than likely that Ozil will stay in Germany for many years to come.

Ozil’s International name was established at under 21 level where he was the key to Germany’s European Under 21 Championship triumph in 2009. Now with Michael Ballack ruled out of the World Cup, Ozil will now have the opportunity to compete with players such as Tim Kroos, Piotr Trochowshi and Bastian Schweinsteiger for the central midfielder role, something in which the 21 year old will undoubtedly grasp with both hands.





Group E

Name: Nicklas Bendtner
Country: Denmark
Age: 22
Position: Striker
Int Caps: 32
Int Goals: 11



Who else is their but the Arsenal forward? Halfway through the 2009/10 season the young Dane had to step up to the plate on his return from injury to finish with 12 goals in 31 appearances, helping the Gunners third in the Premiership. The Danish international receives mixed reviews from both critics and fans alike, however he undoubtedly has the potential and ability to be one of Europe’s top strikers.

Bendtner has 32 caps for Denmark and has scored 11 goals. His is a tall rangy striker, with great aerial ability, balance, hold up play and technique, while his finishing ability leaves a little to be desired (similar to that of Zlatan Ibrahimovic). However with the full backing of both Arsene Wenger and International coach Morten Olsen, the 22 year old will be the focal point of Denmark’s attack in pursuit of the World Cup trophy.



Group F

Name: Stanislav Šesták
Country: Slovakia
Age: 27
Position: Striker/Right Midfielder
Int Caps: 29
Int Goals: 10



The 27 year old versatility and pace are amongst his strong points, as the VFL Bochum attacker can play either right midfield or up front. He was Slovakia’s top goal scorer in the qualifying campaign with 6 goals, helping his side finish top of their qualifying group above both Slovenia and Czech Republic.

The 27 year old has been around for a few years, mainly playing in the Slovak league, achieving a impressive goal scoring record, helping him gain a move to Germany. His pace, acceleration and technique are amongst the qualities possessed by Sestak, which will have to be implemented in South Africa if the Slovakians are able to cause an upset, provided they carry their qualifying form into the tournament.



Group G

Name: Gervinho
Country: Ivory Coast
Age: 23
Position: Striker/Right Winger
Int Caps: 13
Int Goals: 4

Gervinho, full name Gervais Yao Kouassi is one of my personal favourite players, currently playing in Europe with French side Lille. He has played 22 times for the French club, scoring 11 goals in the process.



The Ivorian possess excellent dribbling ability, combined with agility and drive, with his direct methods causing defenders all kinds of problems. He has played in the Europa League last season, and is playing in his first World Cup. When playing for the Elephants, he plays up top in a front three consisting of Salomon Kalou and Didier Drogba.



Group H

Name: Alexis Sánchez
Country: Chile
Age: 21
Position: Striker/Left, Right Winger
Int Caps: 27
Int Goals: 10



He made his international at 17 year of age in 2006, and has been in and around the squad since then, before fully gaining a starting role within the squad He during the 2010 qualifying campaign, which coincided with his move to Udinese in Italy in 2008.

The Chile number 7 scored 3 times in the CONMEBOL qualifying campaign, with 10 from Humberto Suazo, helped Chile finish second in the table behind Brazil. Although not prolific in Italy, only hitting the net 8 times in 62 appearances, the 21 year old has been playing out on the Bianconeri wing showcasing his pace, exquisite skills and dribbling ability. He is a very exciting player and this year‘s World Cup is the perfect stage for him to showcase this talent.

The World Cup is just around the corner... Real Talk Football

World Cup Countdown - Group E

Group E

Netherlands

Perennial big tournament underachievers, blessed with some of the greatest players ever to grace the game, have never won the World Cup, but it seems that the Oranje are expected to come good sooner rather than later. The Dutch side captained by former Arsenal and Barcelona defender; Giovanni van Bronckhorst, swept through the qualifying campaign unbeaten, the only team, along with European Champions Spain, to do so. More impressively, Holland’s qualifying campaign record was played 8, won 8, lost 0 while scoring 17 goals and conceding just 2 goals in the process. If Holland carry this form into the World Cup they could go all the way.



Manager: Bert van Marwijk

The Dutchman made his name managing Feyenoord for 4 years, and a spell briefly managing in Germany with Borussia Dortmund, before heading back to Holland in 2007, again with Feyenoord. Then in 2008, he took charge of the national side, and has currently guided them to number four in the World rankings.

Key Player: Klaas-Jan Huntelaar

The AC Milan striker has struggled to make an impact on the big stage since leaving the comforts of Ajax in 2009. However the World Cup can be the perfect stage for the 26 year old to put himself in the shop window and his tally of 15 international goals. Huntelaar helped himself to 3 goals in the qualifying campaign, and was Holland’s top scorer.



Best Finish: Runners Up 1974 and 1978

Prediction: Group winners/ Semi final

A team boasting the likes of Arjen Robben, Wesley Sniejder, Dirk Kuyt, Robin Van Persie and many more gifted players can indeed go all the way, but like many other nations with massive potential may somewhat place too much pressure on the Dutch side and hinder their chances.

Denmark

The Danish side, captained by Jon Dahl Tomasson, won their qualifying campaign with 21 points, and 6 wins, 3 draws and 1 defeat from 10 games. They finished ahead of the likes of neighbours Sweden, an impressive Hungary side and most impressively ahead of runners up; Portugal.



Manager: Morten Olsson

The 60 year old, is a former Danish international and has been in charge of Denmark for 10 years, and guided the Danes to the 2002 World Cup, Euro 2004 and the World Cup four years ago. His ties with other teams in the group are that he is a former Ajax manager.

Key Player: Thomas Sorensen

The 33 year old Stoke player was sensation in the qualifying campaign and is clearly Denmark’s most important player, as he saved his side numerous times in the campaign. He suffered a dislocated elbow in his club sides 6-0 defeat to Chelsea, but didn’t require surgery and is expected to fly to South Africa. Known for his penalty saving ability, he has 86 caps for his country, and a good performance at the World Cup could see one of the big teams watching over him in Europe, finally make a move.



Best Finish: Quarter Finals 1998

Prediction: Quarter Finals

I believe the Danish side will complete well with the other teams in the group, and may even cause a stir by winning the group. The gifted but unpredictable Nicklas Bendtner will lead the line with captain Tomasson, with solid central midfielder partners Christian Poulsen and Thomas Khalenberg, speedy and experienced wingers Dennis Rommedahl and Jesper Gronkjaer will provide the assists with consistent, technically gifted centre backs Daniel Agger and Simon Kjaer will other some resistance to the opposition. I expect Denmark to be dark horses and have a commendable World Cup.

Japan

The Asian side were the first nation to qualify for the World Cup through qualification, with Australia also. They are currently ranked number 45 in the World Rankings and are captained by 32 year old Yuji Nakazawa, who plays for Yokohama F. Marinos, and has 102 international caps. Some of the players within this squad who are known in Europe include midfielders Junichi Inamoto (former Arsenal), Shunsuke Nakamura (former Celtic) and striking prodigy Takayuki Morimoto (now playing for Catania).



Manager: Takeshi Okada

He has been in charge of Japan since 2007, and managed them at the 1998 World Cup finals.

Key Player: Keisuke Honda

Japan’s new poster boy is one of the most exciting Asian players in Europe. He currently plays for CSKA Moscow in Russia after making a €6 million move from VVV-Venlo in 2009. He played and scored in his Champions League debut against Sevilla. He has 12 caps for Japan with 4 goals. Expect him to the highlight of the Japanese campaign.



Best Finish: Second round 2002

Prediction: Group Stage

I think the Japan side will finish bottom of the group, with their clash with Holland being the most intriguing clash of the group stage.

Cameroon

The Lions of Africa return to the World Cup after missing out on the 2006 campaign. Cameroon has an interesting history in the tournament, and was famed for the 42 year old Roger Milla and his infamous dance in the 1994 campaign. This time round, the African side are expecting to cause an upset and with the likes of Alex Song of Arsenal, Benoit Assou-Ekotto of Tottenham, Idriss Kameni of Espanyol and Eyong Enoh of Ajax are some of the players who will be driving on the Lions, while experienced defender Rigobert Song and Geremi will indeed need to use that experience, in order to show leadership both on and off the pitch in order to guide the team through the group stage.



Manager: Paul Le Guen

Frenchmen Paul Le Guen made his football career playing in France, most noticeably with Paris Saint-Germain. He is the former coach of Rennes, Paris Saint-Germain, Rangers and most successfully at Lyon. The 46 year old is known for developing footballers and is a technically sound coach.

Key Player: Samuel Eto’o

The national team captain and still regarded as one of the top strikers in the World, has played for both Real Madrid and Barcelona, and now playing for Inter Milan, is probably Cameroon’s greatest ever player. The 29 year old has played 92 times for his country and is their all time top goal scored with 43 goals. If anyone can penetrate the best defences in the World, it’s Eto’o.



Best Finish: Quarter Finals 1990

Prediction: Group Stage/Second round

Could they cause an upset? Stranger things have happened. I think they will definitely compete for second place, as they have an array of players with potential, who could star on the World stage.

Next Up: Group F

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Countdown to South Africa - Group D

Group D


Germany

Host four years ago, the German side finished in third place with striker Miroslav Klose ending up tournament top goalscorer. This time round the Germans look to go one step further this time round, they began by qualifying top of their group remaining undefeated throughout the campaign. The main news released just last week is that of first choice goalkeeper Rene Adler and centre midfielder Simon Rolfes out of the World Cup completely. Finally the national squad had to comprehend with the death of the man competing for the number one jersey; Robert Enke. The Germans still have the likes of Bastian Schweinsteiger, Phillip Lahm, Mesut Ozil, Lukas Podolski and Mario Gomez leading the charge.

Manager: Joachim Low

Jurgen Klinsmann’s assistant from 2004 through the 2006 World Cup campaign, until he was given the reigns once Klinsmann decided against renewing his contract after 2006. The 50 year old managed Germany to runners up at the 2008 European Championships, and has a well structured set up currently in place, and can expect to be amongst the favourites for the 2010 tournament.

Key Player: Michael Ballack

The German poster boy has played for over 11 years and has 98 caps. The man who wears the number 13 shirt has more runners up medals than any other International, but he is still one of the most vital components to the German machine. One of the most respected midfielders in Europe, expect this to be the 33 year olds last major tournament.



Best Finish: Winners 1954, 1974, 1990

Since 1982, Germany has always at least reached the Quarter Final stage of the World Cup. They are the quintessential big tournament team, and cannot be ignored.

Prediction: Semi-Finals

I expect the Germans to win the group, and the next two games, but fall short once again.



Australia

The best team and highest ranked team (20) outside Europe, Africa and the America’s. The Australian’s had an excellent qualifying campaign, qualifying without losing a single game and only conceding one goal. A lot of the players ply their trade in Europe and are quite well known. The likes of Lucas Neill, Tim Cahill, Mark Bresciano, Vince Grella, Brett Emerton and Harry Kewell are now all on route to Australia’s third World Cup campaign.

Manager: Pim Verbeek

The 54 year old Dutchman has established his managerial career in Holland, and has been assistant manager of different nations include South Korea and United Arab Emirates. Apparently known for his two holding midfielders and lone strikers, they will look to dominate possession and frustrate teams at this year’s tournament.

Key Player: Mark Schwarzer

The Fulham keeper has been sensational this season, helping his side reach the EUROPE League final. The 37 year old has fought off competition from former team mate Brad Jones to still be considered Australia’s number one. Expect him to have a good tournament and be the last line of defence for the Oz. Look out for star midfielder Tim Cahill also.



Best Finish: Second Round

2006, Fabio Grosso’s dive which won them a late penalty, 95th minute in fact, and condemned Australia to defeat. A bitter taste left in the Australian’s mouth, as they will now look to exact revenge.

Prediction: Group Stage

I believe it will be close, but if the Australian’s aren’t up for the fight then they could possibly end up bottom of the group.



Serbia

The White Eagles surpassed all expectations and had a sensational qualifying campaign, finishing top of the group, above the likes of Romania, Austria and most impressively France. Standard Liege striker Milan Jovanovic helped the cause scoring 5 goals through the campaign. Serbia seperated from the dual nation Serbia and Montenegro in 2006 and this is their first World Cup as Serbia itself. The Serbian side boasts an array of exciting players including Branislav Ivanovic, Gojko Kacar, Bosko Jankovic, Dejan Stankovic, Aleksandro Kolarov, Zoran Tosic, Nikola Zigic and many more. They are an exciting nation and have every chance of shining at this World Cup.

Manager: Radomir Antic

The experienced Serbian had established his career in Spain’s La Liga with the likes of Real Zaragoza, Athletico Madrid, Celta Vigo, not to mention both Real Madrid and FC Barcelona. He has the tactical knowhow and has experience working with big name players. He has been in charge of Serbia since 2008.

Key Player: Nemanja Vidic

The Manchester United defender was brilliant in the 2008/09 season, but has been hampered by injury this season. He is still however, regarded as one of the best defenders in Europe, and could probably fit into again team he chooses. A future national team captain.



Best Finish: Fourth Place 1930, 1962 (As Yugoslavia)

Prediction: Group Stage/Quarter Final

It’s a tricky one. The Serbian side has excellent potential and could be dark horses. It’s between them and Ghana to Progress.



Ghana

The West African side have an array of hard working powerful players, and warmed up for the World Cup by finishing as runners-up in the African Cup of Nations. The Black Stars qualified top of their group, 3 points clear on Benin. The squad boasts the likes of captain Stephen Appiah, experienced players such as John Pantsil, John Mensah, Eric Addo, Sulley Muntari and Matthew Amoah. The Ghana side also has some exciting prospects including Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu, Dominic Adiyiah, David Addy and Anthony Annan.

Manager: Milovan Rajevac

Somewhat of a strange appointment, the 56 year old has only managed the big clubs in Serbia, but he has made a good impression so far with the Ghanaians. According to ESPN.com he is a strict manager, fine tactician and has excellent defensive management. The Serbians nationality should add extra spice to the tie with the White Eagles.

Key Player: Michael Essien

The Chelsea midfielder played on one leg in the African Cup of Nations, and has missed most of the season with Chelsea through a knee injury. However he is expected to be fit and make up the extra dynamic in midfield needed to drive Ghana forward. He has 51 caps for Ghana.



Best Finish: Second Round

The finished second in their group at the 2006 World Cup, and had numerous chances to score and cause an upset against Brazil, but unfortunately ended up losing 3-0.

Prediction: Group Stage/Second Round

They are somewhat of an unknown quantity, and the lack of firepower has always been a concern for the Black Stars, but the Ghanaian’s have a strong defence and powerful midfield, can help compete effectively against the likes of Serbia and Australia for second spot.

Coming Soon: Group E

Countdown to South Africa - Group A

Group A

South Africa

The Tournament hosts as well as the first ever African nation to do so. The Bafana Bafana had no qualifying process to go through, so on one hand should be a lot fresher than the other nations, but on the other the hand, the team haven’t had the necessary competitive experience of playing together. Home advantage is a major factor and the influence and experience of former Brazil national team boss; Carlos Alberto Parreira.



Manager: Carlos Alberto Parreira

He has manager 4 different nations at 5 different World Cup Finals (Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates and Brazil x2) and won the 1994 World Cup with the boys from Brazil.

Key Player: Steven Pienaar

The Everton winger has been excellent this season and needs to perform along with the likes of Aaron Mokoena, Benni McCarthy and Siyabonga Nomvethe. Pienaar has 46 caps for South Africa.

Best Finish: Group Stage

Mainly due to its History, the Country has been banned from many former tournaments, but of the two World Cup tournaments they have been to, 98’ and 2002’, the Japan/South Korea 2002 campaign was indeed their most successful points wise.

Prediction: 2nd Round

I believe they may just sneak through the group stages, mainly thanks to the home support. I believe a win against Uruguay and a draw against an underachieving Mexican side may get them through.



Mexico

The team from Central America qualified through the CONCACAF group by finish second in the behind the USA, and ahead of Honduras. The Mexicans have played in 13 Finals and South Africa will be there 14th.

Manager: Javier Aguirre

A former Mexican International, he played 59 times for his country scoring 14 times. He is currently in second spell in charge and coaches at his first World Cup.

Key Player: Rafael Marquez

The Barcelona played is a very versatile, being able to play both Central or Defensive midfield as well as a centre back. The 31 year old is of the upmost experience and has 88 caps. He is also one of the senior members of the squad along with the legendary Cuauhtemoc Blanco, 109 caps and Gerardo Torrado, 107 caps respectively.



Best Finish: Quarter Finals

Achieved their best finishes in both 1970 and 1986 World Cups, coincidently they were both held in Mexico. In 1970 they lost to eventual finalists, Italy. The 1986 was supposedly meant to be held in Columbia, but couldn’t go ahead due to economic reasons.

Prediction: Group Stage

I think the Mexicans will be slow starters and believe the South African’s will just creep in ahead of them. However don’t be surprised if the Mexicans end up winning the group!



Uruguay

The South American side nicknamed “La Celeste” (the Sky Blues) were the first ever winners of the World Cup Finals, all the way back in 1930 (held in Uruguay), and then won it again in 1950 (Brazil). However they haven’t came anywhere near as close in recent times.

Manager: Oscar Tabarez

The Uruguayan national has managed the side for the last 4 years, and taking them to their second World Cup. His managerial CV reads, amongst others, AC Milan and Boca Juniors.

Key Player: Luis Suarez

The Ajax hit man and Captain is a technically gifted player with an excellent record in the Eredivisie. His club side only just missed out on the league title this season, by only one point. He and other young players including Edinson Cavani and Sebastian Fernandez will need to link up well with the more experienced players such as Diego Forlan, Diego Lugano and Jorge Fucile in order to cause any sort of impact.



Best Finish: Winners in 1930 and 1950

Prediction: Group Stage

Can’t see the South Americans making it out of the group stages



France

When they reached their peak, they were an unstoppable force in the late 90’s. I fully expect the French to get over the heartbreak of the 2006 penalty shoot out defeat, by going far in this tournament also. Some say they shouldn’t be here, as they cheated against the Republic of Ireland, but by no means will they let this affect them now. No Zidane this time round, but with a big number of experienced players and gifted younger players, the French could go far.

Manager: Raymond Domenech

I’ve never personally been a fan of this man. He makes some stupid statements, outrageous player selections and some very strange tactical decisions. However he is now into his 6th year as coach, and led the France to the Runners-up place last time round, so has the competition pedigree. The French side only missed out on automatic qualification by one point from Serbia.



Key Player: Franck Ribery

A mixed season on and off the field this season, the former Marseille winger is one of the most cavorted and sought after players in World football, and the 2010 tournament is the stage in which he can shine.



Best Finish: Winners 1998

Held on home soil, players such as Emmanuel Petit, Zinedine Zidane, Barthez, Lizarazu, Leboeuf, Blanc, Thuram and many more all guided Les Blues to their first ever World Cup title. Some say it was a long time coming, but the French golden generation helped dismantle Mario Zagallo’s Brazil side 3-0, a team boasting the likes of Dunga, Aldair, Cafu, Bebeto, Rivaldo and of course “R9” Ronaldo.

Prediction: Quarter Finals

I fully expect them to banish any cobwebs and win the group with maximum points.



Stay tuned for Group B coming real soon

FIFA World Cup 2010

FIFA World Cup 2010

In 40 days, the FIFA 2010 World Cup will kick off in South Africa. Over the next few weeks, we will discuss each group in detail, giving you the information you need to know in order to be ready for one of the most exciting events in the World.

To get you in the mood, here's a reminder of the groups

Group A
South Africa
Mexico
Uruguay
France

Group B
Argentina
Nigeria
South Korea
Greece

Group C
England
USA
Algeria
Slovenia

Group D
Germany
Australia
Serbia
Ghana

Group E
Netherlands
Denmark
Japan
Cameroon

Group F
Italy
Paraguay
New Zealand
Slovakia

Group G
Brazil
North Korea
Ivory Coast
Portugal

Group H
Spain
Switzerland
Honduras
Chile

Remember to click Follow on the right, sign up and tell us who you think will win the trophy.