First time meetings for World Cup quartet

The day’s opening encounter is a classic David and Goliath affair as Australia take on the FIFA World Cup colossus that is Italy. Through to the Round of 16 for the eighth consecutive tournament, the Azzurri start as clear favourites against the valiant Aussies, who are complete novices at this stage of the competition. The second duel of the day is one of the hardest second round clashes to call, as Ukraine face the best Swiss side for over a decade.

The matches

Italy - Australia 17:00, Kaiserslautern

The Italian squad arrived in Germany in uncharacteristically sombre mood. The Serie A scandal, Francesco Totti’s poor form and a tricky group seemed to combine to cast a black cloud over them. As it turned out, the Nazionale qualified for the knockout stage without too much fuss but will take on the Antipodeans without Daniele De Rossi, who is suspended for four games, and injured defensive kingpin Alessandro Nesta. As one of the surprise packages of the opening round, Guus Hiddink’s boys will go into the game feeling they have nothing to lose.

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Switzerland - Ukraine, 21:00, Cologne

The Swiss new guard came to Germany to learn some lessons prior to UEFA Euro 2008 on home soil. Their apprenticeship is proving an unqualified success, as they finished top of Group G and will now view any further achievements as a bonus. Extremely resolute in defence and determined in attack, Kobi Kuhn’s men could well spring one or two more surprises, although the loss of Philippe Senderos to injury represents a serious dent to their chances. Facing them will be the rejuvenated Ukrainians who are getting back to full strength after being taught a humiliating lesson themselves, in a 4-0 drubbing by Spain. Oleg Blokhin’s braves will also be hoping that Andriy Shevchenko can turn on the style.

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