Second Sixteen Matches Of “South Africa 2010”

An article about the second sixteen matches of "South Africa 2010".

Gianni Truvianni's "South Africa 2010", Uruguay's South American Class Beats South Africa 3-0

An article about Uruguay's 3-0 victory over South Africa, which makes them the first south American team to be the home nation in the first round.

Uruguay showing the class and touch that at one time made their football the greatest in the world defeated a South African team that in all truth was simply outclassed and outplayed by their South American rivals. It was a game which both teams needed to win given the fact that both were held to a draw in their first game and it was with this in mind that Uruguay came out ready to play. South Africa, for its part was not able to get their game going as Uruguay managed not only to stifle their efforts but to use their superior technical skills to keep the ball. This making it harder for South Africa to get a hold of the ball.

Diego Forlan, as one can expect was the one who got Uruguay on the scoreboard when his long distance shot took a slight deflection off a South African defender and made its way in to the back of the net. This goal coming 24 minutes in to the game to give Uruguay a well deserved 1-0 lead which is how the first half would end.

The second half would continue with more of Uruguay's elegant South American play which South Africa did not seem to have an answer for. It not taking Uruguay long to double their lead at 2-0 when Forlan converted a penalty for his second personal goal of the game. It was at this point of the game that Uruguay not only had a comfortable lead but was playing with an extra man as South Africa's goalkeeper was shown the red card for the foul he committed that gave away the penalty. South Africa then continued bravely yet it was clear that Uruguay with more experience and class would not let them back in a game which they would go on to win by 3-0. Their third goal coming in added time thanks to a well placed shot from close range by Pereria.

In conclusion, I would say that Uruguay has taken a big step toward the second round which should see them get through with a win or even a draw against their next rival; Mexico. South Africa on the other hand is now in danger of being eliminated from the world cup in the first round which would make them the first host nation not to qualify to the second round.


Gianni Truvianni's "South Africa 2010", Higuain's Hat Trick Gives Argentina 4-1 Win Over South Korea

An article about Argentina's 4-1 rout of South Korea on June, 17, 2010.

In a solid display of football Argentina dominated in what was a convincing 4-1 win over South Korea to assure themselves a place in the round of 16. Argentina controlling much of the play was able to score 15 minutes in to the game when an unfortunate bounce deflected of South Korea's Chuyung and in to the back of the net for what would be the first goal of the game. It was once having taken the lead that Argentina, inspired by Messi pressed forward in attack in what looked to be a rout early on. It being Argentina imposing their South American flair and ball control.

Argentina would not wait long for their second goal which came at the 32 minute mark when an unmarked Higuain headed in his first goal of the game; from a position which at first did give the appearance of being offside yet the replay clearly demonstrated that all had been according to the rules. It being then that Argentina perhaps took on too much confidence which led to South Korea's only goal when in the last minute of the first half; Lee Chong Yong took advantage of a defensive error to put South Korea within striking distance.

The start of the second half however would not see a change in the game which continued with Argentina showing the ability many had talked about before the start of the tournament. Maradona's team clearly being in command, continued to press forward for a third goal which would come in the 75th minute of the game when Higuain from close range tapped the ball in to an empty goal. This after the ball had bounced off the South Korean post which set up what could be classified as a very easy goal.

Two minutes would go by for Higuain to get his third and Argentina's fourth for the match when his header found its way in to the back of the net to complete the first hat trick of South Africa 2010. Argentina for its part becomes the first team to qualify for the second round in what can be called a much improved performance from their first against Nigeria. Maradona perhaps finally realizing that certain players whose age has gone beyond that of youth, such as Veron; should be left on the bench. South Korea, though defeated is from eliminated; as a win in their last match against Nigeria should qualify them in to the round of 16.


Gianni Truvianni's "South Africa 2010", Greece Gets First World Cup Victory In 2-1 Defeat Of Nigeria


An article about Greece's first win in world cup competition. June, 17, 2010.

It was a slow start for the Greeks which saw them trailing just 15 minutes in to the game when Kalu Uche's free kick made its way in to the back of the net; after having gone past several on coming players to give Nigeria a 1-0 lead. It even seeming that Nigeria would go on to defeat Greece with the same ease they had done in USA 94 yet the Greek team thanks to determined play and their veteran captain, Karagunis managed to not loose control of the game.

Fortune however would favor the Greeks when Nigerian midfielder, Sani Kaita was shown the red card for an incident which does not really show him doing much that would merit such a reaction but raise his knee to an opposing player; it not even being clear weather or not he even made contact. Nigeria however would be reduced to playing with ten men which more than anything seemed to inspire the Greeks to go forward which they did and it was with two minutes left in the half that Dimitrios Salpigidis's right footed shot bounced off a Nigerian player and in to the back of the net. This not only being the equalizing goal but Greece's first ever goal in a world cup match.

The second half would see Greece continue to dominate and it was at the 70 minute mark of the game that Vassilis Torosidis would pounce on a shot which Nigerian goalkeeper, Vincent Enyeama in all truth should have handled without too much difficulty. Greece at that point was ahead in the scoreboard and thus they would stay till the end of the match; to get their first ever win in a world cup. All in a match which was for the most part one of excitement and opportunities on both sides yet Greece would prevail.

Greece however is far from qualified as in order to do so they would need a Nigerian win against South Korea and to get at least a draw against Argentina. This due to not only South Korea having scored more goals but having beaten them in head to head competition. All of which making an interesting scenario for the group's last two matches. As in theory Nigeria is not yet out and Argentina could still be eliminated even though this option is highly unlikely as they would have to lose by at least 4 goals to Greece. Nigeria however with a win over South Korea and an Argentine win over Greece could still end up in the second round.


Gianni Truvianni's "South Africa 2010", Blanco Scores As Mexico Triumphs 2-0 Over France


An article about Mexico's well earned victory over France.

France in all honesty did not play badly yet Mexico showed all the enthusiasm and passion of their country which led them to a 2-0 win in a game which started off at a very fast pace which was held through out the first half with both sides taking turns in dominating. France perhaps attacking more while Mexico getting the better chances yet the half would end goalless. All in a first half which was more exiting than the score would indicate.

The second half would start much like the first half ended though Mexico would slowly start to create more and more chances as they began to dominate yet could not find their way to the goal; they so desperately wanted. It being then that like in their first match against South Africa, Mexican coach Aguirre decided to bring on Blanco; who again had a tremendous impact on the game. Blanco being vital in adding creativity to Mexico as well as experience. All of which leading to Mexico getting their first goal 63 minutes in to the game when Hernandez thanks to a pass by Marquez was able to beat the offside trap along with France's goalkeeper Hugo Lloris. It was after this goal that French spirits seemed to deflate while Mexico grew in the confidence that would lead to their second goal. It arriving via a penalty following a foul by Eric Abidal on Pablo Barrera. A clear penalty it was which veteran Blanco did not fail to convert. As Mexico took a 2-0 lead which they would hold on to till the end of the game.

As for Mexico, it can be said that they are just about qualified to the next round and all they need is a draw against Uruguay which would see both teams through regardless of whatever may occur in the match between South Africa and France.

As an extra note, I would like to add that I am glad for my friend, Alejandro from Mexico that his country was able to win and I am sure celebrations will follow in Mexico D.F., as in all honesty; it was a hard fought victory.




Gianni Truvianni's "South Africa 2010", Serbia Overcomes Germany By 1-0 In Error Packed Match

An article about Serbia's 1-0 win over Germany.

In a match that was filled with errors as well as interesting plays Serbia thanks to a goal by Milan Jovanovic at the 37 minute mark of the game which came just one minute after Germany's Klose had been shown the red card; defeated Germany. It being Germany, who in their last game had been very impressive in their 4-0 rout of Australia yet on this day were unable to score despite having numerous occasions to do so. Germany even dominating play after falling behind by not only a goal but one man yet simply could not score. Sami Khedira coming ever so close at the end of the first half when his drive from inside the box hit the bottom part of the crossbar only to bounced out.

Germany however would get two more chances in the second half which Podolski squandered with shots that went almost completely wide of the mark. It being then that perhaps Serbia's Nemanja Vidic felt the need to give away a penalty which he did with a pointless dive to touch a ball holding no danger what so ever to the Serbian goal. This making me believe after this game and their last, against Ghana that Serbian players practice allowing their opponents to have penalties. It however was at that moment that Lukas Podolski felt that Serbia had been too generous in giving this penalty which he perhaps considered did not merit scoring or such would suggest the way he executed it; right in to the hands of Serbian goalkeeper, Vladimir Stojkovic.

Germany had missed a penalty and was down by a goal with one man less yet continued in their attack though Serbia in fact was out playing them. Serbia even creating the better chances, two of which they should have used to put the game out of reach but missed, one shot even bouncing of the German post. It seeming as if Serbia wanted to give Germany a chance to equalize or not wanting more goals. The game however would finish with a 1-0 Serbian win which should create for an interesting situation for the following games. These being Germany taking on Ghana while Serbia takes on Australia; all to decide who qualifies to the next round in a group that is far from settled.


Gianni Truvianni's "South Africa 2010", USA Gets 2-2 Draw Against Slovenia After Trailing By 2-0

An article about the USA's 2-2 draw versus Slovenia.

The United States in a true show of character and quality play came back to gain a well earned 2-2 draw against Slovenia; after going down by two goals. The United States started off well, going on attack and creating scoring opportunities yet after just 12 minutes found themselves trailing by a goal to zero when Valter Birsa assisted by Aleksander Radosavljevic; scored Slovenia's first goal.

It was after this goal that the United States continued on the attack, coming close on a few occasions with a clear chance being presented to Donovan, who just could not get on the end of a ball which went across the Slovenian goal. It however was when it seemed that the United States would draw level and just before the end of the first half that Slovenia got its second goal. It coming at the 41 minute mark of the game when a pass by Milivoje Novakovic found an open Zlatan Ljubijankic, who beat the offside trap as well as American goalkeeper, Howard; to give Slovenia a 2-0 lead.

The second half however started with Donavan scoring just 3 minutes after the break. Donavan's being a very powerful shot from an angle which Slovenian goalkeeper, Samir Handanovic seemed to fear as it went in to the back of his net. It was after this goal that the United States continued pushing forward and though many chances would present themselves, it would not be till the 81st minute of the game that Michael Bradley tied the score at 2 a piece which is the way it would end.

A moment of controversy however would come in the dying minutes of the game when Jozy Altidore's clear dive was mistaken for a foul by the referee Koman Coulibaly, who gave a free kick. It being from this free kick that a goal came which for some unclear reason was not given yet if one looks at what transpired carefully; there should not have been a free kick in the first place.

In conclusion, I would say that the United States out played their opponents and for the most part should have won had they been able to take advantage of more of their scoring chances. This match however creates an interesting situation in their group as Slovenia is now left with 4 points which makes it that all they need do is get a draw against England in their last game to qualify to the next round. As for the United States, they would need to defeat Algeria to find themselves in the round of 16.


Gianni Truvianni's "South Africa 2010", England And Algeria Play To A Scoreless Draw

An article about England and Algeria, who not only failed to score but to entertain.

For England gone for sure are the days of Lineker and Shilton, who had that quality of simply being able to perform. This in contrast to today's English players who apart from having names that serve for the purpose of marketing; are simply not able to play to the standards set by the above mentioned players. This being the case as England, today was held to a scoreless draw by an Algerian team which does not even have the class of the squad they presented back in 82. It being that team which was able to defeat none other than Germany by 2-1.

Algeria however for its part at least put in more effort and for the most part controlled more of the ball though lack of imagination and decision making did not allow them to create any real scoring chances. Algeria however is still in the hunt for a place in the second round which they could get with a win over the United States. As for England, they now being third in the group are in need of a victory over Slovenia; coupled with either an American defeat or draw in their last game against Algeria.

In conclusion, I would say that like it has been in the past; so it will be that England once again will leave without a title or even a place in the semifinals and perhaps on this occasion they will not even make it to the second round. This being an occurrence which would not come as a surprise to anybody who has any knowledge of football.


Gianni Truvianni's "South Africa 2010", Sneijder's Lone Goal Gives Holland 1-0 Win Over Japan

An article about Holland's 1-0 win over Japan which should qualify them in to the second round.

In a match that held little in the way of excitement, the Netherlands defeated Japan by 1-0 with a goal scored by Sneijder at the 52 minutes mark of the game. Sneijder's goal coming on a slip up of the Japanese defense as well as an unfortunate bounce of the hands of goalkeeper Eiji Kawashima, who managed to block the shot but somehow ended up pushing it in to his own goal. The Netherlands would have two more chances neither of which Robin van Persie was able to capitalize on despite finding himself one on one with Japanese goalkeeper, Kawashima.

Japan despite the lose still has a chance to qualify but would need to defeat Denmark in order to ensure themselves of passage to the next round while a draw against Ghana would suffice the Netherlands. It being in the round of 16 where they might be forced to play Italy for the first time in a world cup since Argentina 78. As for Japan, they still have a good chance but will need to go on the attack a lot more then they did today, if they hope to beat Denmark and qualify to the next round.


In conclusion, I would say that the Netherlands showed good football today in what could be classified as a match in which they won without having to use up too much energy while still getting the three points. Japan, for its part could have tied the game late in the game but unfortunately the ball went slightly high.


Gianni Truvianni's "South Africa 2010", Australia Manages 1-1 Draw Against Ghana Despite Playing With 10 Men

An article about today's match between Ghana and Australia.

Australia got off to a good start, attacking and going directly at Ghana's goal and at the 10 minute mark of the game; they would be rewarded with a dangerous direct free kick. This being a free kick which was taken by Bresciano and in all reality should have been easily handled by goalkeeper, Richard Kingson; who not only did not catch it but managed to deflect it on to the on coming; Brett Holman. Holman then easily slotting the ball past Kingson, who was left with no chance to make up for his apparent mistake.

Australia had taken an early lead yet it would not take Ghana long to strike back. Their equalizer coming at the 23 minute mark of the game when Australia's Harry Kewell was forced to save the ball on his own goal line with what to me appeared to be his shoulder but obviously referee Roberto Rosetti; felt he had moved toward the ball. This promoting Rosetti to not only dictate a penalty but present Kewell with Australia's second red card in the tournament as well as leaving them to play the remainder of the game with 10 men.

Ghana's Gyan would convert his penalty kick in the same way he had done against Serbia to give Ghana a 1-1 draw yet for Australia this result would leave them with only one point in two games while Ghana would have four points.

Australia, despite being a man down would go on the attack and perhaps should have retaken the lead on a few occasions in the second half yet failed to convert as the score would finish at one a piece. Australia, now with one point, in their next match will face Serbia whom they will have to beat and then hope for a Ghanaian win over Germany. This in order to have any chance of making it through to the next round. As for Ghana, who now has four points; a draw against Germany should be enough to see them in to the round of 16.


Gianni Truvianni's "South Africa 2010", Denmark Comes Back To Win By 2-1 Against Cameroon In Thriller

An article about Denmark's come back win over Cameroon.

Denmark wins over Cameroon in a match full of thrills; from start to finish. In what arguably could be the best match of the tournament so far. It being a match in which Cameroon would draw first blood when Samuel Eto'o beat Danish goalkeeper Thomas Sørensen just 9 minutes in to the game. This goal giving Cameroon a 1-0 lead. Denmark however would not give up as they too had lost their first match and were all too aware that a second defeat would mean elimination from South Africa 2010. Denmark pressing on attack came back to score at the 32 minute mark of the match when Dennis Rommedahl set up Nicklas Bendtner; whose slide allowed him to put the ball past goalkeeper, Souleymanou Hamidou.

The half would end at one goal a piece with much more to come in the second half as both teams took to the ways of going forward. This being the case that a draw would not have served either team. It being while the match was going from end to end with chances for both teams that Dennis Rommedahl would score 15 minutes in to the second half to give Denmark the lead. Rommedahl's curling shot in to the right hand corner of the Cameroon goal being too much for Souleymanou Hamidou to handle. Denmark then in the lead would go on to hang on to a hard fought victory despite Cameroon's desperately pressing forward in their attempt to at least salvage a point in what turned out to be a most exiting finish to the game.

Denmark for their part have their first three points of the tournament but are far from being qualified as they will need a win over Japan in order to get to the round of 16 while Cameroon becomes the first team to be mathematically eliminated. This meaning that the Netherlands becomes the first team to qualify to the next round where it is possible that they will be called upon to face Italy. Japan however need but a draw against Denmark to make it to the round of 16 for the first time in a tournament played outside of their own country.

Gianni Truvianni's "South Africa 2010", Paraguay Defeats Slovakia 2-0 In Solid Performance

An article about Paraguay's 2-0 win over Slovakia.

Paraguay got off to a dominating start in their match against Slovakia. This coming in a game which they would control from start to finish as their offense went to work while their defense and midfield stifled what ever attempts their opponents made at going forward. Paraguay would not have to wait long for their first goal which came 26 minutes in to the match when Enrique Vera assisted by Lucas Barrios, managed to angle his shot past a diving, Jan Mucha. His efforts giving Paraguay a well earned 1-0 lead over their European rival. Paraguay would go on to dominate the half yet despite having most of the scoring chances would not add on to their lead; as the half would end 1-0.

The second half began much like the second one, ending with Paraguay's midfield of Caceres, Rivero and Vera dominating play and creating danger in the Slovakian defense. Paraguay also aided by their returning international forward, Roque Santa Cruz; who missed Paraguay's first match. Paraguay's better play however had to wait till the 84th minute to score their second goal which came when Riveros's shot from the edge of the box made its way past Slovak goalkeeper; Mucha. Paraguay, not only would go on to a 2-0 victory but would show the class of their South American football which in the past has seen them win the Copa America on more than one occasion.

In conclusion, I would say that Paraguay played very well today though in my opinion; have yet to show their best which they will need to do so in the next round if they wish to advance to the quarterfinals. It being almost a sure thing, for all they need is a draw against New Zealand for their passage to the round of 16 to become a mathematical certainty. As for Slovakia, it is almost certain that they have been eliminated yet will play against Italy, who surely will be in search of a victory from the start in order to assure themselves a place in the round of 16.

Gianni Truvianni's "South Africa 2010", New Zealand Holds Italy To A 1-1 Draw

An Italy about Italy's frustrating draw against New Zealand.

Italy could not have gotten off to a worse start as just 6 minutes in to the match, usually dependable Canavaro not only failed to clear a ball in his own penalty box but ended up allowing New Zealand's Shane Smeltz a clear shot at goal from a practically unstoppable distance. It being Smeltz who beat Marchetti to give New Zealand an unexpected early lead. Italy however would attack desperately and often, creating scoring chance after scoring chance. All of which being stopped by both Italian inability to take advantage of their scoring opportunities as well as a solid New Zealand defense. Italy would even hit the post in an attack that would have to wait till New Zealand's Smith took down De Rossi in the penalty box for what would be a clear penalty. It being Iaquinta, who converted the spot kick to give Italy a well earned draw. The half would end with the score at 1 a piece.

The second half would see more attacks from Italy yet unfortunately goals were not to come as they game would end in frustration for the current world champions, who despite having the better of the play for most of the game would have to settle for one point. As for myself, personally I can say that watching the game in Warsaw's San Lorenzo presented certain anxiety. This being the case since for the second time in as many matches; my friends and I were unable to see our beloved azurri claim victory in this world cup.

Italy for its part now will have to beat Slovakia in order to make it to the next round, as a draw would see them having to depend on a Paraguay win over New Zealand. I, however feel that Italy will show its best in the following game, it being one in which their backs are up against the ball.

Gianni Truvianni's "South Africa 2010", Brazil Beat Ivory Coast By 3-1 In Ill Tempered Affair

An article about Brazil's win over Ivory Coast and a clear hand ball which French referee, Stéphane Lannoy; simply did not care to see.

Brazil claimed their second victory in what could be labeled as a relatively easy victory with Fabiano giving them a 1-0 at the 24 minute mark of the game when his well struck ball found the back Ivory Coast's goal. This goal giving Brazil energy as they searched forward in attack, in their domination of Ivory Coast. The half would end with a 1-0 lead for the South Americans yet it was in the second half were matters truly got out of hand.

It being Fabiano who would go on to score a second goal in which his use of his hand could not have been any clearer on two occasions. First when he jumped for the ball and then when he settled it for his eventual shot which beat goalkeeper, Barry Boubacar Copa for Brazil's second goal. Fabiano's hand ball in fact being clearer than Maradona's back in 1986 yet despite this referee, Stéphane Lannoy but smiled as he jokingly tapped his own arm to Brazil's Fabiano. This moment being the one which created stressful conditions on the pitch which led to foul after foul being committed by both teams while Lannoy failed to control those on the pitch. A third goal would come for Brazil however when Kaka managed to find an unmarked Elano, coming in to the penalty box to give Brazil a 3-0 advantage.

Ivory Coast despite being out played would get one back when at the 78 minute mark, Didier Drogba managed to beat the Brazilian offside trap; to give his team their first goal of the world cup. It was at that point that the match was settled yet tempers would flair up when in perhaps what could be called an injustice to compensate for another, one of the Ivory Coast's players intentionally collided with Kaka and then pretended to fall down injured. This despite it being clear that it had been he who had run up from behind Kaka, who could not have seen him nor struck his face which he held after having fallen down. Kaka then being unjustly expelled yet in all honesty Brazil's second goal also should not have been allowed.
South Africa 2010,Brazil,Ivory Coast,Kaka,Elano,Drogba,Maradona, Stéphane Lannoy


Gianni Truvianni's "South Africa 2010", Portugal Trashes North Korea By 7-0

An article about Portugal's 7-0 win over North Korea.

Portugal in what could be hailed as a great exhibition of football truly demolished North Korea by 7-0. Portugal's win by seven goals being the third highest in the history of the world cup, equaling Poland's 7-0 win over Haiti back in 1974. In all truth however it can not be said that North Korea played as badly as the score might indicate yet Portugal was simply at their best and in fact could have scored more goals if the ball on a few occasions had gone in instead of hitting the post.

Portugal's goals would start 28 minutes in to the match when Tiago assisted Meireles, whose right footed shot beat North Korean goalkeeper, Ri Myong Guk; for what would be the only goal of the first half. Portugal however would come back to play the second half rejuvenated, as if they had gained added ambition and a new look on the game that quickly went to work on their Asian rivals. Their goal scorers being Simao 52 minutes in to the match, Almeida 55 minutes in to the match, Tiago 59 and 88 minutes in to the match, Liedson 80 minutes in to the match and Ronaldo 86 minutes in to the match. After today's performance, it can once again be said that Portugal is amongst the favorites to perhaps go all the way to the finals though it perhaps it is too early to tell yet if this is a demonstration of what is to come than it would appear that they will be back in the semifinal.

As for North Korea, they are now eliminated from the world cup and will be playing but for pride against Ivory Coast while Portugal and Brazil will be playing to see which one of the two rules supreme not only in group G but amongst the Portuguese speaking nations. It being this match which should be a classic as was their first and so far only encounter in a world cup back in 1966 which Portugal won 3-1. This thanks to their legendary forward, Eusebio who scored twice.


Gianni Truvianni's "South Africa 2010", Chile Gets Second Win In The World Cup By Defeating Switzerland By 1-0

An article about Chile's second win in South Africa 2010.

Chile capitalizing on their one man advantage due to Valon Behrami's expulsion at the 30 minute mark of the game was able to take a 1-0 victory. The game in all truth started well for Chile, as they went on the attack from the very start yet like with Honduras, who they also dominated but had difficulty in scoring; so to it was with Switzerland. It being their defense which proved as hard for the Chileans to break down as it had been for Spain yet Chile with a man advantage would eventually score a goal in the 75Th minute of the game. It arriving when Esteban Paredes received a through ball which he centered to substitute, Mark Gonzales who in a leaping effort headed the ball past a Swiss defender; to give Chile a one goal lead.
Chile would create more opportunities which forward Paredes was unable to capitalize on yet despite not being able to increase their lead, Chile would hang on for a well earned 1-0 victory. This in spite of Switzerland coming ever so close to getting an equalizer when one minute before stoppage time, Eren Derdiyok found himself open in the Chilean penalty box; only to send his shot well wide of the mark. Chile, for its part now has six points and needs but a draw against Spain to make it to the round of sixteen for the first time since 1998. Switzerland, on the other hand still has a chance to qualify yet would need to defeat Honduras and hope that Spain does not get all six points from its remaining two games.




Gianni Truvianni's "South Africa 2010", Spain Wins First Match By 2-0 Against Honduras

An article about Spain's first win in South Africa 2010 against Honduras.

Spain thanks to two goals by David Villa in the 17th and 50th minutes of the match was able to beat Honduras to get their first three points. It being against a weak Honduran team that Spain mostly dominated in the first half and took an early lead when Villa went past two defenders in to the penalty box to score. Honduras though possessing some quality players, capable of a good play or two seldom did enough to in any serious way threaten the goal defended by Spanish goalkeeper, Casillas. Theirs being a case of sporadic touches of brilliance here or there but little else. This in contrast to Spain, who though not brilliant; were at least consistent in going forward.

Spain in the second half would go on to continue to dominate, though at times would loose control of the midfield however another goal would come to more or less clinch it. This goal again coming thanks to Villa whose long range shot found the back of the net.

Spain after getting their second goal would get more chances to score. One coming on a penalty, thanks to a foul needlessly committed; which Villa would miss completely. His shot going wide of the Honduran goal. Spain over all dominated and could have gotten a third even after missing a penalty but the ball was cleared almost of the line by a defender.

In conclusion, it would be safe to say that Honduras has been eliminated from South Africa 2010 while Spain will go on to play Chile. This being a match which will decide for sure if Spain are too advance further in the tournament or be left out in the first round; as has been the case on more than one occasion. For my part, I would give Chile the edge against Spain as at this moment, I see them as the better team though all can happen.