2010 FIFA World Cup Betting Tips, Picks and Odds

FIFA World Cup Photos: Italy celebrate 4th FIFA World Cup title!!!

2006-07-09T14:41:00.000-07:00

FIFA World Cup Photos: France end World Cup on a sad note

2006-07-09T14:26:00.000-07:00

ITALY 5, FRANCE 3 (pk)

2006-07-09T14:01:00.000-07:00

Italy 5

Andrea Pirlo

Marco Materazzi

Daniele De Rossi

Alessandro Del Piero

Fabio Grosso

France 3

Sylvain Wiltord,

Eric Abidal

David Trezeguet

Willy Sagnol

Zinedine Zidane gave France the lead in the seventh minute with a penalty, and Materazzi equalized 12 minutes later. But Zidane was sent off in extra time after head-butting Materazzi.

ITALY wins FIFA World Cup!!! Italy 5 def. France 3 on penalty kicks

2006-07-09T13:54:00.000-07:00

Italy beat France 5-3 on penalty kicks to win the World Cup final match on Sunday. It was the fourth world crown for the Azzurri.

It was just the second time a World Cup final game was decided on penalty kicks. The first time was 1994, when Brazil beat Italy. France was without its captain and best penalty kicker, Zinedine Zidane, who was red-carded in the 110th minute.

Zidane, who was playing the last soccer match of his career, headbutted Italy defender Marco Materazzi in the chest after the two exchanged words while walking down the field.

The game was tied 1-1 after the first 90 minutes. The teams then played two scoreless overtimes.

In the ninth minute of overtime, Franck Ribery of France shot wide off the far post. It was the closest any player had come to scoring in overtime.

Four minutes later, Zidane hit a header that Italian goalkeeper Gianlugi Buffon managed to palm over the net.

In the first half, Italy's Materazzi headed a corner kick past France's goaltender to tie the World Cup final match at 1-1 in the 19th minute. Andrea Pirlo's corner kick set up Materazzi just to the left of the goal. Materazzi's header just got past diving goalkeeper Fabien Barthez.

In the sixth minute, Zidane scored on a penalty kick to give France a 1-0 lead.

Zidane faked the kick left and after the Italian goaltender dove, he softly kicked a shot that hit off the crossbar and barely bounced into the goal.

That penalty kick was set up by a foul against Materazzi.

It was the first goal that Italy had allowed in more than 460 minutes of World Cup play this year.

Zidane went down after a collision with an Italian player in the 81st minute, but moments later he returned to the game as the crowd went wild. He appeared to be in pain as he ran after returning.

In the 62nd minute, Luca Toni put a diving header past France's goalkeeper that appeared to give Italy a 2-1 lead, but an offside flag nullified the goal. Minutes later, replays showed that the linesman probably got the call correct, and the match remained tied 1-1.

Italy again came close to taking the lead in the 77th minute, when Pirlo's penalty kick from 30 yards away curled wide of the post.

World Cup LIVE!!! - Italy 1, France 1

2006-07-09T11:59:00.000-07:00

France 1 vs Italy 1

Marco Materazzi headed a corner kick past France's goaltender to tie the World Cup final match at 1-1 in the 19th minute on Sunday. Andrea Pirlo's corner kick set up Materazzi just to the left of the goal. Materazzi's header just got past diving goalkeeper Fabien Barthez.

At the half, the score remained tied 1-1.

In the sixth minute, Zinedine Zidane scored on a penalty kick to give France a 1-0 lead.

Zidane faked the kick left and after the Italian goaltender dove, he softly kicked a shot that hit off the crossbar and barely bounced into the goal.

That penalty kick was set up by a foul against Materazzi.

It was the first goal that Italy has allowed in more than 460 minutes of World Cup play this year.

One minute into the game, France got some potentially bad news when Thierry Henry, one of the team's two biggest names, went down after taking an apparent elbow to his face. Henry stayed down for a couple minutes before getting help off the field.

Moments later he returned to the game.

Dream World Cup Final: France vs Italy

2006-07-08T18:03:00.000-07:00

After more than two years of competition featuring 194 teams, 910 games and more than 2,600 goals, the World Cup will be decided on Sunday with either Italy crowned champions for the fourth time or France for the second.

A billion people will turn their attention to Berlin's Olympiastadion where two teams drenched in World Cup history will do battle in the 18th final. The match has left bookmakers divided but is littered with fascinating sub-plots that fans of each side can cling to in the desperate hope that they are fated to triumph.

For France it is the opportunity to complete the circle of recovery after they were knocked out after the first round without scoring a goal four years ago. Striker Thierry Henry's frustration goes back even further as he seeks to banish the bitter-sweet memories of 1998 when he watched the final from the bench as France triumphed 3-0 over Brazil.

And there is Zinedine Zidane, who retires after the match with his reputation as one of the game's greats long-assured but who craves the ultimate leaving gift.

2000 Revenge

Italy go into the game under the cloud of the domestic match-fixing scandal which might yet see half the squad playing second division football next month but which has also helped mould them into a formidably spirited unit. They are also seeking revenge for the agony of the 2000 European Championship when the title seemed theirs before France snatched an injury-time equaliser then won it with David Trezeguet's golden goal.

While Zidane's departure seems to demand victory, Italy can point to a similarly neat and equally deserved last page scenario that would see their superb captain Fabio Cannavaro lifting the trophy on the occasion of his 100th international appearance.

However, all the historical twists will be forgotten on Sunday when the destination of the trophy will be decided not according to some grand design but more likely by a moment of inspiration or a fatal loss of concentration.

It seems certain that the match will be in keeping with the rest of the tournament as a cagey affair with little likelihood of a feast of goals. That was certainly the case in their last World Cup meeting in the 1998 quarter-finals when France advanced on penalties after a goalless draw.

Grey edge

Five of the side who played in that game and went on to win the trophy and then beat the Italians again in the Euro 2000 final are in the squad for Sunday - Fabien Barthez, Lilian Thuram, Trezeguet, Henry and Zidane but only Cannavaro and Alessandro Del Piero survive for Italy.

The grey edge to the French side was one of the reasons so few people gave them a chance in this competition but they have countered the critics with performances of increasing confidence as they dispatched Spain, Brazil and Portugal.

Italy too have every reason to back themselves. Their superb defence, fighting spirit and a coolness in front of goal that has produced 10 different scorers of 11 goals, took them deservedly past Australia, Ukraine and Germany.

Both sides are littered with potential match-winners and both have experienced players highly qualified in the art of stopping such performers.

Can Zidane possibly match his two-goal heroics of the 1998 final, can Henry deliver one of his special moments or can new boy Franck Ribery complete a dream tournament by scoring in the final?

Conversely can Luca Toni follow in the footsteps of 1982 hero Paolo Rossi, will Andrea Pirlo net one his sumptuous free kicks or could the rampaging Gianluca Zambrotta charge his way into the history books?

If not, there is always penalties.

Probable Teams:

ITALY (4-4-1-1): 1-Gianluigi Buffon; 19-Gianluca Zambrotta, 23-Marco Materazzi, 5-Fabio Cannavaro (captain), 3-Fabio Grosso; 20-Simone Perrotta, 21-Andrea Pirlo, 8-Gennaro Gattuso, 16-Mauro Camoranesi; 10-Francesco Totti; 9-Luca Toni.

FRANCE (4-2-3-1): 16-Fabien Barthez; 19-Willy Sagnol, 15-Lilian Thuram, 5-William Gallas, 3-Eric Abidal; 4-Patrick Vieira, 6-Claude Makelele; 22-Franck Ribery, 10-Zinedine Zidane (captain), 7-Florent Malouda; 12-Thierry Henry.

Referee: Horacio Elizondo (Argentina).

All you need to know about the World Cup final

2006-07-08T17:52:00.000-07:00

It will finish on Sunday in Berlin in the historic Olympic Stadium with either Fabio Cannavaro of Italy or France's Zinedine Zidane hoisting the most prized trophy in sport - the FIFA World Cup.

Over the last month, the world has cheered, argued, booed, sung, complained, whined, laughed, cried in sadness and cried tears of joy. This World Cup does not figure as one of the best — in truth, it struggles to make my top ten and I have watched eleven of them — but it has had its memorable moments, as all World Cups do.

No matter what has gone before, the final game this Sunday has the ingredients that could provide us with one of the grandest of World Cup finales. Italy leads with 17 wins, 7 losses and 8 draws. However, you have to go back to the 1978 World Cup in Argentina to find Italy's last win over France. Since then, France is unbeaten in their last six meetings.

1938 World Cup quarterfinal — Italy 3-1 France (host)
1978 World Cup group stage — Italy 2-1 France
1986 World Cup round of 16 — Italy 0-2 France
1998 World Cup quarterfinal — Italy 0-0 France (France 4-3 on penalties)
2000 Euro 2000 final — Italy 1-2 France (after extra time)

Italian Coach Marcello Lippi (58) has enjoyed a more successful career as a coach than he did as a player. He was a journeyman player for a number of Italian clubs before moving into coaching in 1982. He worked his way through the ranks and by 1989 he was in charge of Cesena in Serie A — Italy's top league.

He joined Juventus in 1994 and made his reputation with the Turin giants. During two spells with Juve he led them to five Serie A championships and won the Champions League once. Juventus also reached the Champions League final on three other occasions under Lippi. He took over the Italian national team after the European Championships in 2004 and Italy is currently unbeaten in its last 24 games.

Raymond Domenech (54) also took over the national team after France lost in the quarterfinals of the 2004 European Championships. His playing career took him to a number of French teams including Lyon, Strasbourg, Paris Saint-Germain and Bordeaux before retiring in 1984 to move into coaching.

He was in charge of Mulhouse and Lyon of the French league before being placed in charge of the French youth team in 1993. He remained in that position until he replaced Jacques Santini after the Euros. During his time in charge France has only lost one game.

Zidane eyes second World Cup for France as Italy seeks Fourth

2006-07-08T17:45:00.000-07:00

Zinedine Zidane will try to end his career with a second World Cup victory when he leads France against three-time winner Italy in today's World Cup final in Berlin.

The 34-year-old Zidane, whose two goals helped France defeat Brazil in the 1998 final, has driven the team into the showpiece game and will quit afterward. He set up the goal that defeated defending champion Brazil in the quarterfinals.

The final is among the closest to call in tournament history. After the semifinals in which Italy beat host nation Germany in extra time and France scored the only goal against Portugal, Irish bookmaker Paddy Power said the game was as even as a flip of a coin. Germany beat Portugal 3-1 in yesterday's third-place playoff.

More bettors have since backed Italy, which is the 8-11 favorite. France, which won its only title eight years ago, is rated an even chance, meaning a successful $10 would yield $10. Italy scored twice in the last two minutes of extra time against Germany to advance to its sixth World Cup final and first since losing in a penalty shootout to Brazil in 1994.

European Record

A victory over France at Berlin's Olympic stadium would give the Italians a European best fourth title after winning soccer's biggest prize in 1934, 1938 and 1982. Brazil leads the all-time list with five victories.

France's first World Cup success was founded on a backline that allowed two goals in seven matches. This time, the defense has again been breached twice, a record second only to the Italians, who let in just one goal so far.

The only player to beat Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon this World Cup was teammate Cristian Zaccardo, who sliced the ball into his own net in a 1-1 draw with the U.S. Another shutout would see Buffon pass fellow Italian Walter Zenga's World Cup record of 517 minutes without allowing a goal.

All set for France-Italy World Cup Final!

2006-07-08T17:27:00.000-07:00

France vs Italy

The 2006 World Cup trophy goes to either France or Italy. These two European giants face each other in the final at the Olympiastadion of Berlin, on Sunday.

The Italians will have to do without one of their more influential players, as Alessandro Nesta has been out injured since his side's win over the Czech Republic in the group phase. Marco Materazzi is expected to start, together with Zambrotta, Cannavaro and Grosso, defending Gianluigi Buffon's goal. Midfield should consist of Pirlo, Perrotta, Gattuso, Totti and Camoranesi, while Toni should start up front.

The French have no significant injury problems. Barthez is to start in goal and will be assisted by Sagnol, Abidal, Thuram and Gallas in defense. Makelele, Vieira, Malouda, Ribéry and the great Zinedine Zidane are to form the midfield line, while Thierry Henry begins alone in Les Bleus' attack.

Facts:

Italy have reached the World Cup final every twelve years since 1970, when they lost to Brazil. In 1982 the Azzurri beat West Germany and in 1994, a penalty shootout had Brazil come out as winners.

France most recent victory came in 2000, when the team won the European Championships in the Netherlands and Belgium. Interestingly, all three knock-out rounds opponents of 2000, again faced France in this tournament, and in the right order as well.

Spain, then France's opponents in the quarter final, were now defeated in the round of sixteen. Portugal faced France in the semi final in 2000, and just as this year, they lost. In the final, the then reigning World Champions faced Italy, just like now.

Head to head:

These two teams have had 32 previous encounters. Italy won 17 times, France only 7. Although there were four meetings at World Cup's, their most famous appointment was the final at Euro 2000.Italy thought to have secured the victory thanks to a goal from Marco Delvecchio, but Sylvain Wiltord levelled just before full time, for David Trezeguet to score a golden goal in extra time.

Probable line-ups:

Italy: Buffon; Zambrotta, Grosso, Cannavaro, Materazzi; Gattuso, Camoranesi, Pirlo, Perrotta; Totti; Toni.

France: Barthez; Sagnol, Abidal, Thuram, Gallas; Makelele, Vieira, Malouda, Ribery, Zidane; Henry.

World Cup: France and Italy - Settled and similar

2006-07-08T00:06:00.000-07:00

The World Cup final Sunday night brings together two teams with settled lineups. Both have managed to avoid suspensions. Both are largely free of injury - Alessandro Nesta, the Italian center back, is likely to be the only significant absentee.

Both teams play the same formation: four defenders, a band of four across midfield and one man supporting the lone striker. The principal difference is that Italy has shown far more willingness to attack in numbers than France.

FRANCE

Fabien Barthez

The goalkeeper is one of the survivors of the great team that won the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000. But he has been far from great in Germany. He used to compensate for his lack of size with brash aggression. Here he has seemed nervous, but so far neither he nor France, which has conceded only two goals, one from a penalty, has been punished.

Zinédine Zidane

The French talisman has always been a man for the big game and this, he insists, will be his last. He was superb against Brazil. It was his first good World Cup performance since the 1998 final. He contributed little in the semifinal, where he often found himself facing three Portuguese midfielders. While the French reluctance to commit men to attack means he can expect to be outnumbered again, the Italians, less defensive than Portugal, are unlikely to feel the need to give him that much attention.

Thierry Henry

Center forward is the one position at which France has unquestionably the better player. Yet, in a team that orbits around Zidane, Henry continues to struggle to find his dazzling club form. He is France's top scorer with three goals and he won the penalty that produced the goal against Portugal. In that game, he worked selflessly as a decoy, pulling wide and dropping into midfield to create space for Zidane, Malouda and Ribéry.

ITALY

Gianluigi Buffon

He has done nothing to undermine his reputation as the best goalkeeper in the world. Indeed, playing behind a superb back four, he often does nothing. The only goal he has conceded was an own-goal by Cristian Zaccardo in the 27th minute of the second group game against the United States. If he stays unbeaten for the first 64 minutes Sunday, he will break the Italian Walter Zenga's 1990 World Cup record of 517 minutes without a goal.

Gianluca Zambrotta, Fabio Grosso

Two defensively sound fullbacks - this is Italy, after all. Zambrotta caught the eye with his tricky attacking play until Grosso scored a goal any striker would have cherished, with three minutes left in extra-time in the semifinal.

Fabio Cannavaro, Marco Materazzi

At just 1.75 meters, Cannavaro is tiny for a central defender. Yet so good is his leaping and his timing that he wins the ball in the air against big strikers. Everything Cannavaro does is impeccably timed. He is without a rival as the best central defender at this World Cup. He is the organizer of the Italian defense and a deft ballplayer and passer. Materazzi, standing in for Nesta, looked clumsy when he was sent off against Australia, but gave a much smoother display in the semifinal.

France vs Italy: Defense will decide World Cup final

2006-07-07T23:53:00.000-07:00

No Italian opponent has scored in this World Cup. France has allowed two goals overall. Even with all the offensive flair on both sides, defense will decide the title Sunday in Olympic Stadium.

The Azzurri have been so impenetrable in six matches that only Cristian Zaccardo got the ball past outstanding goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon. Zaccardo plays defense for Italy.

Germany probed and pressed throughout its semifinal and went 120 minutes without ever finding the net. Indeed, the Germans had only a handful of dangerous opportunities with one of the most powerful offenses in the tournament.

Australia displayed a strong attack in the first round, then was blanked by the Italians. Ukraine, with star striker Andriy Shevchenko, didn't get on the scoresheet in the quarterfinals. That game features textbook technique in the penalty area. Led by captain Fabio Cannavaro, the Italians block more shots than Shaq. They brilliantly volley clearances upfield, sometimes from angles that seem impossible.

France has no reason to fear any team after outplaying Brazil in the quarterfinals. But the French weren't quite so effective with the ball against Portugal in the semis. Their defense? Impeccable.

Such regal defense will be needed again Sunday because, even with their defensive personas in the World Cup, both teams bring a wealth of attacking talents.

Italy has had 10 players score, led by striker Luca Toni with two. But it has been the point-guard style work of Francesco Totti and Andrea Pirlo that has sparked the attack, and Fabio Grosso is among the tournament's most effective defenders near the opposition's net. Even such players as Alessandro Del Piero and Filippo Inzaghi have made major contributions as substitutes.

France has midfielder extraordinaire Zinedine Zidane, who has recaptured the form he used to win three FIFA player of the year awards and to lead France to the 1998 championship. Henry, although his marksmanship could be more precise, always is a threat, and Patrick Vieira's recent performances rival any of his teammates'.

For all that attacking acuity on both sides, a 1-0 result is entirely possible. Perhaps even inevitable. The defenses simply are that strong.

France vs Italy: Check these World Cup Final Statistics

2006-07-06T20:34:00.000-07:00

Forget Brazil and Germany: It's Italy Against France with World Cup at stake. One flash of inspired genius might be all that separates France and Italy at the end of Sunday's World Cup final which is likely to see the defences of both sides dominate. With the Italians having conceded only one goal, and France conceding just two, the outcome could hinge on a single slip or mistake -- or by one flash of brilliance.

ROAD TO THE FINAL

Italy: Aside from a 1-1 tie with the USA in their second Group E match, the Italians have beaten five opponents by combined scores of 10-0 and reached the final by beating host Germany, 2-0.

France: After stuttering in Group G to finish second behind Switzerland, the French upset Spain 3-1 and then stunned defending champion Brazil 1-0 before knocking off Portugal 1-0 in the semifinals.

NUMBERS GAME

Italy: Ten different players have scored Italy's 11 goals; Luca Toni is the only player with two goals. He led all Europeans in league scoring last season with 31 goals for Fiorentina.. Italy has reached its sixth final: it won the World Cup in 1934, '38, and '82, and finished second in '70 and '94.

France: Thierry Henry leads the French with three goals, Zinedine Zidane has scored twice. Henry was second to Toni; he netted 27 goals for Arsenal. France won the World Cup in 1998; this is just their second appearance in the final. They were beaten semifinalists in 1958 (Brazil) and 1982 and 1986 (West Germany both times).

COACH

Italy: Marcello Lippi, 58. In charge since August of 2004, Lippi won five Serie A titles with Juventus and four times led them to the finals of the Champions League, winning once.

France: Raymond Domenech,. 54. Before taking over the national team in July 2004 he had coached the French under-21 team for 11 years, so he's doing pretty well in his first major competition. France has lost only once during his tenure.

Edge: Italy.

GOALKEEPERS

Italy: Gianluigi Buffon, 32. He and his club Juventus are at the center of a corruption scandal yet he's been rock-solid. Pulled off several strong saves against Ukraine in the round of 16 with the score 1-0 (Italy won 3-0), and twice stopped German attempts to take the lead in the semifinal.

France: Fabien Barthez, 35. Has been his usual superb, erratic self. Got away with several bobbles against Portugal in addition to making two difficult saves. Is sometimes prone to getting caught in traffic coming out for crosses.

Edge: Italy.

DEFENDERS

Italy: Central defender Fabio Cannavaro will celebrate his 100th appearance in the final; his steadiness has forged an almost impenetrable defense despite several changes forced by injuries and suspensions. Both outside backs, Gianluca Zambrotta. and Fabio Grosso, have scored goals.

France: Lilian Thuram, 34, has been spectacular at the heart of the defense alongside William Gallas. They have been almost impossible to best in the air. Left back Eric Abidal. is the least experienced member of the back four with only 13 appearances and right back Willy Sagnol was involved in two goalmouth incidents against Portugal that could have resulted in penalty kicks.

Edge: Italy.

MIDFIELDERS

Italy: Since Lippi went to a 4-5-1 formation, Italy's attacks prompted by Francesco Totti, Mauro Camoranesi. and Andrea Pirlo have been more varied. Gennaro Gattuso is a rugged enforcer.

France: Holding midfielders Patrick Vieira and Claude Makelele. allow the ageless Zidane (34) to prise open the opposition. Vieira dominates in the air and occasionally pushes forward into the attack. Outside midfielders Florent Malouda and Frank Ribery struggled in the semifinal.

Edge: France.

FORWARDS

Italy: Much of Toni's work as a lone striker has led to goals by others, although he netted twice against Ukraine. Vincenzo Iaquinta, Alberto Gilardino and Filippo Inzaghi have all been used effectively and each has one goal.

France: Henry's speed and touch and guile shreds defenses but he failed to exploit several good situations against Portugal. Sylvain Wiltord and Sidney Govou have seen time off the bench in the last two games.

Edge: France.

INTANGIBLES

Italy: Nothing – the match-fixing scandal in Serie A, an own-goal and tie against the USA, injuries and suspensions – has deterred the Italians, who have grown stronger as the opposition as toughened.

France: The French are soaring on momentum and emotions will be boiling as Zidane, a symbol for his nation as well as its team, plays his last game for France.

Edge: Italy.

World Cup Finals Profile: France

2006-07-06T19:23:00.000-07:00

France

Twelfth appearance. Best performance: Winner in 1998.

First-Round Results: Tied Switzerland 0-0, tied South Korea 1-1, beat Togo 2-0.

Second-Round Result: Beat Spain 3-1.

Quarterfinal Result: Beat Brazil 1-0.

Semifinal Result: Beat Portugal 1-0.

Stars: Zinedine Zidane has been sensational in the last three games. After dominating Brazil, his penalty kick was the only goal in the semifinal. He set up Thierry Henry's goal against Brazil with a perfect free kick and looked like the Zizou of old with dazzling speed and footwork, and impeccable ball control. Patrick Vieira scored the winning goal against Spain and has sparked an offense that was dormant early on. Goalkeeper Fabien Barthez has not been beaten since the second game of the opening round.

Outlook: Some thought France peaked in the stunning upset against Brazil, and the French weren't nearly as good vs. Portugal. But this is a savvy squad with the kind of leadership to win another title.

Zidane gets everything moving forward and his skillful footwork often opens lanes for others. Henry is the most dangerous finisher, even though he's been off-target quite often. But he has three goals in the tournament.

France's defense has been almost as miserly as Italy's. It won't allow a great number of chances, either.

World Cup Finals Profile: Italy

2006-07-06T19:15:00.000-07:00

Italy

Sixteenth appearance. Best performances: Winner in 1934, 1938, 1982.

First-Round Results: Beat Ghana, drew with the United States 1-1, and finished with a 2-0 victory over the Czech Republic.

Second-Round Result: Beat Australia 1-0.

Quarterfinal Result: Beat Ukraine 3-0.

Semifinal Result: Beat Germany 2-0 in extra time.

Stars: Fabio Grosso and Alessandro Del Piero scored in the last two minutes of extra time to stun the hosts at Dortmund. Grosso has made many penetrating runs from the back line, while the Italians have seen technical brilliance on defense from Fabio Cannavaro and Gianluca Zambrotta. Goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has not been beaten by an opposing player.

Outlook: The Italians have either ignored or been inspired by the soccer scandal tearing apart their sport back home. The Germans couldn't break down their staunch defense, and Italy's skills at launching volleys to clear the ball from danger has been incredible.

Coach Marcello Lippi has been masterful in his substitutions, getting the best out of his bench as well as his starters. Italy has had 10 players score, led by Luca Toni with two. And Toni, the leading scorer in Serie A last season, has had little impact.

If Italy's defense remains so rigid and smart, the Azzurri should bring home the trophy.

Klose, Henry, Podolski Target World Cup's Top Striker Award

2006-07-06T19:05:00.000-07:00

Germany strikers Miroslav Klose and Lukas Podolski have more to play for than third place at the World Cup, with the Golden Shoe for the tournament's top scorer set to be decided on the final weekend.

Klose, who faces Portugal in Stuttgart tomorrow, has matched his 2002 World Cup tally of five goals to lead by two from France's Thierry Henry and Podolski. France plays Italy in the July 9 final in Berlin.

"The main thing is to finish third but if I can make a contribution then I would be happy,'' Klose told reporters. "It's great to be the top scorer at a World Cup and I would like Germany to have at least one title.''

If none of the contenders score, Klose would become the lowest-scoring winner since 1962. This World Cup's average of 2.3 goals per game is the lowest since 1990.

Four of the weekend's players have two goals: France's Patrick Vieira and Zinedine Zidane, Portugal's Maniche and Italy's Luca Toni, the only striker among the quartet.

Brazil's Ronaldo won the 2002 award with eight goals, the first top scorer to be on the World Cup-winning team since Italy's Paolo Rossi in 1982.

Henry, aiming to repeat the feat, must score at least twice to stand a chance of becoming the second French winner after Just Fontaine's all-time record 13 goals in 1958. Gerd Mueller was the only German victor, with 10 goals in 1970.

GOLDEN SHOE CONTENDERS

Klose (Germany) 5
Henry (France) 3
Podolski (Germany) 3
Toni (Italy) 2
Vieira (France) 2
Zidane (France) 2
Maniche (Portugal) 2

BET on the 2006 FIFA World Cup Final: FRANCE vs ITALY

2006-07-05T18:04:00.000-07:00

In the beginning, there were 32 countries. Now, only two are left. France vs Italy. Les Bleus vs Azzuri. This Sunday, July 9, at 2 pm ET on ABC, it's the World Cup Final! Bet on the World Cup odds at the Nine.com Sportsbook!

France vs Italy

Italy set to take on France for World Cup title

2006-07-05T18:03:00.000-07:00

Few teams faced more questions heading into the World Cup finals than Italy and France. The French were over the hill — they couldn't even score. The Italians were consumed by the biggest soccer scandal in the nation's history.

No teams have answered their doubters more emphatically. On Sunday in Berlin, the Italians play for their fourth world soccer championship and the French go for their second. Both teams have rich traditions, but neither entered the monthlong tournament a favorite.

Italy won the World Cup in 1934, 1938 and 1982. This time it has allowed only an own-goal in six games, and now its offense is rising to the same level. After beating Germany with two goals in the final minutes of extra time, Italy headed to its first final since losing to Brazil in 1994.

In the buildup to Germany 2006, France rarely impressed, barely escaping from their qualifying group. Veteran players such as Zinedine Zidane, Patrick Vieira and Fabien Barthez hinted at dissension toward coach Raymond Domenech.

Their 1-0 semifinal win over Portugal came with a bit of good fortune — a suspect rewarding of a penalty kick that Zidane converted. No matter: France will be in Berlin for its fifth World Cup meeting with Italy.

Italy won the first two World Cup matches with France, 3-1 in 1938 and 2-1 in 1978. France won 2-0 in 1986, then took a penalty-kick shootout 4-3 after a 0-0 tie in '98. Who has the edge this time?

Although France has yielded just two goals, Italy has the superior defense, led by Fabio Cannavaro, perhaps this World Cup's best player. But Zidane, a three-time world player of the year, has been masterful the last three games. If anyone can create space in the penalty area for his teammates, it's Zizou.

Barthez has made some outstanding saves, but he also has a penchant for bobbling the ball. Italy's Gianluigi Buffon, who has been questioned back home about illegal sports betting, has been impregnable.

If the stars decide the title, France has the edge. If it becomes an 11-man game, Italy is in better shape.

France beats Portugal 1-0 to reach World Cup Final vs Italy

2006-07-05T18:00:00.000-07:00

Zinedine Zidane, playing his last soccer tournament, scored with a penalty kick to earn France a 1-0 victory over Portugal and a place in the July 9 World Cup final against three-time champion Italy.

The 34-year-old Zidane, who got two goals in France's 1998 final win over Brazil, slotted his kick past Ricardo in the 33rd minute at Munich's World Cup stadium to give France a shot at a second world title.

The French, who ended a World Cup run of 369 minutes without scoring during the first round, advanced to a rematch of the 2000 European Championship final, which they won 2-1. The final will be held at Berlin's Olympic stadium.

Zidane, who is quitting after the World Cup, knocked Portugal out of a tournament for the second time with a penalty kick after his sudden-death winning goal in the Euro 2000 quarterfinals.

The player nicknamed "Zizou'' took two steps before drilling his shot past goalkeeper Ricardo, who got his fingertips to the ball without changing its course.

Ricardo Carvalho was adjudged to have tripped Thierry Henry for the penalty, a ruling the Portuguese disputed. Portugal coach Luiz Felipe Scolari remonstrated when the referee turned down a penalty appeal as Cristiano Ronaldo, jeered by fans with his every touch, fell in the area with France defender Willy Sagnol's arms raised next to him.

France won its second World Cup semifinal in five attempts and ended Scolari's unbeaten run at the World Cup at 12 games after the coach led Brazil to the world title four years ago. The Portuguese were taking part in their first World Cup semifinal since 1966, when they lost to England. They will face host Germany in Stuttgart on July 8 in the third-place playoff.

Portugal had allowed only one goal in Germany before today and was unbeaten in 17 matches at major tournaments. France also beat Portugal in the semifinals of the 1984 and 2000 European Championship.

Germany vs Portugal third place match is still a World Cup fixture

2006-07-05T17:59:00.000-07:00

The FIFA World Cup third-place playoff will remain a World Cup fixture because, at least according to soccer's governing body, the losing semifinalists still have something to play for.

"There's still a high value in that match," FIFA communications director Markus Siegler told a news conference Wednesday, the morning after Germany lost 2-0 to Italy in a semifinal game at Dortmund.

Instead of contesting a final in its capital Sunday, at the Berlin Olympic stadium, Germany will have to regroup for a playoff for third against the other losing semifinalists Portugal the previous evening at Stuttgart.

The usual criticism of the third-place match is that the teams are deflated after losing semifinals and rarely perform at their peaks.

"If you speak to players, for them it still matters whether they finish third or fourth," Siegler said. "This particular case, in which we have the German team involved, I'm pretty sure this will be another great match. "There's still prestige, it's still about the team knowing 'we finished third on the field of play."'

There is no extra financial incentive. The third- and fourth-place teams each receive 21.5 million Swiss francs ($17.5 million), according to FIFA. Local organizers are yet to announce the star performer for a 10-minute closing ceremony that will precede the final. With the host team knocked out of contention after a stirring campaign, the revelry that has followed each of Germany's wins turned to disappointment.

Germany 2006 organizers reported no major trouble after the Dortmund match, but reflected the national mood.

"We regret the team is now playing in Stuttgart. We would have loved them to be playing in Berlin -- but congratulations to the Italians for a great match," said local organizing committee spokesman Gerd Graus.

World Cup Semifinals Preview: Vive la France! or Viva Portugal?

2006-07-04T15:30:00.000-07:00

Portugal(+260) vs France(+100)

Will it be unlucky 13 for Luiz Felipe Scolari? The Portugal coach has never lost a World Cup match, a run that has reached 12 unbeaten games at the World Cup dating back to 2002, when he led his native Brazil to the title.

Scolari snared seven straight World Cup four years ago. In Germany, the surprising Portuguese have won four and drawn one -- a goalless quarterfinal against England when Portugal advanced after a penalty shootout.

Portugal's semifinal clash with France in Munich on Wednesday is the 13th World Cup match of Scolari's career. He's looking to become the only coach to win the World Cup trophy twice with different teams. To do that, he has to complete his transformation of Portugal from a talented team to a winning team.

France beat Portugal on penalty kicks in last year's World Cup -- OK, it was the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup in Brazil. As far as the real thing, Portugal is 0-7 against the French since a 2-0 exhibition win at Paris in 1975, including losses in the 1984 and 2000 European Championships.

When these teams last met in a match that counted, the 2000 Euro semifinals, it got ugly. France won 2-1 when Zinedine Zidane converted a penalty kick with three minutes left in sudden-death extra time. Portuguese players protested the call by Austrian referee Guenter Benko, who ruled Abel Xavier used his left hand to block Sylvain Wiltord's shot.

World Cup Semifinals Recap: Italy 2, Germany 0

2006-07-04T15:24:00.000-07:00

Fabio Grosso and Alessandro del Piero grabbed two goals in the final two minutes of extra-time to puncture the German World Cup party and send Italy into the final 2-0.

With a penalty shootout looming, Grosso curled a fantastic left foot drive into the corner and as Germany desperately searched for a late equaliser, substitute Del Piero broke free to guide in the killer second.

Germany had been seeking their eighth appearance in the final where Italy were hoping for a sixth -- both countries having won the trophy three times.

The game began at a terrific tempo and it rarely dropped as each side passed sharply and went forward probing for openings.

Generally, however, the defenders were able to resist most forays, with captain Fabio Cannavaro again masterful at the heart of Italy's back four and Italy's Simone Perrotta and Germany's Bernd Schneider missing the best of the few first-half chances.

The end-to-end approach continued after the break though neither side were able to muster the necessary precision to force the goalkeepers into serious action and Sebastian Kehl, in for the suspended Torsten Frings, and Italy's Gennaro Gattuso were both dominant in screening their defences.

Germany had never beaten Italy in their four previous competitive matches including the 1982 World Cup final, but in the plus column they had never lost in Dortmund, winning 13 and drawing one of their 14 games there over 71 years.

If both records had remained intact it would have been penalties, where the Germans' World Cup record of four wins from four compared with the Italians' three out of three defeats would leave the hosts as favourites.

World Cup Semifinals Preview: Germany vs Italy

2006-07-04T11:31:00.000-07:00

Hosts Germany and three-time winners Italy square off on Tuesday in a rematch of the 1982 World Cup final, with a berth in this year's final at stake.

The Germans will be without midfielder Torsten Frings, who was suspended by FIFA on Monday for throwing a punch at Argentina striker Julio Cruz in a scuffle that followed the Germans' penalty shoot-out win in the quarter-final.

Frings' Werder Bremen teammate, Tim Borowski is expected to deputize for him, but Jürgen Klinsmann will have the rest of his usual squad at his disposal for the match.

Italy, meanwhile, will be without center-back Alessandro Nesta yet again, but Marco Materazzi returns from suspension to start, with Andrea Barzagli dropping back to the substitutes' bench.

It is unsure whether Marcello Lippi will re-insert Alberto Gilardino into the line-up as midfielder Mauro Camoranesi is struggling to be fit with a knee injury. Luca Toni will start up front, with Francesco Totti lying a bit deeper in attack.

Facts:

Germany and Italy have won a combined six World Cup titles and have appeared in a total of 12 World Cup finals. With a win, Germany would be the first nation to appear in the final match of the World Cup eight different times.

Italy have not lost in 23 international games and have allowed just one goal in this tournament, an own goal against the USA, while scoring nine of their own.

Head to head:

These two nations have met a total of 28 times in the past, including Italy's 3-1 win over Germany in the 1982 final. Their most recent meeting was a friendly earlier this year in a 4-1 Italy drubbing of the Germans.

Probable line-ups:

Germany: Lehmann, Friedrich, Metzelder, Mertesacker, Lahm, Schneider, Borowski, Ballack, Schweinsteiger, Klose, Podolski.

Italy: Buffon, Zambrotta, Materazzi, Cannavaro, Grosso, Pirlo, Gattuso, Perrotta, Totti, Toni, Gilardino.

World Cup Semifinals Country Profile: France

2006-07-03T02:12:00.000-07:00

France

Twelfth appearance. Best performance: Winner in 1998.

First-Round Results: Tied Switzerland 0-0, tied South Korea 1-1, beat Togo 2-0.

Second-Round Result: Beat Spain 3-1.

Quarterfinal Result: Beat Brazil 1-0.

Stars: Zinedine Zidane was masterful against Brazil. He set up Thierry Henry's goal with a perfect free kick and looked like the Zizou of old with dazzling speed and footwork, and impeccable ball control. Patrick Vieira scored the winning goal against Spain and has sparked an offense that previously was dormant. Goalkeeper Fabien Barthez has made some big saves, including a couple of nice ones late against Brazil.

Outlook: France is playing better and better with each game. After squeezing into the second round and coming from behind to upset Spain, Les Bleus shocked Brazil. It wasn't the final score as much as the way they dominated the entire night, beating the Brazilians at their own beautiful game. If Zidane can recapture his youth for one more game, France could find itself back in the final.

On the brink of giving up the game for good, Zinedine Zidane has recaptured some of his best form and Patrick Vieira has recovered from an abysmal start to take command of midfield.

Thierry Henry's form has been hot and cold but he still scored the winner from Zidane's cross to knock out the Brazilians in Frankfurt on Saturday. Franck Ribery has shown several flashes of his dribbling talent, Lilian Thuram and William Gallas have worked well as a defensive partnership, and Willy Sagnol has been consistently good at right back.

World Cup Semifinals Prediction: France to win against Portugal, 1-0.

World Cup Semifinals Country Profile: Portugal

2006-07-03T02:02:00.000-07:00

Portugal

Fourth appearance. Best performance: Third in 1966.

First-Round Results: Beat Angola 1-0, Iran 2-0 and Mexico 2-1.

Second-Round Result: Beat the Netherlands 1-0.

Quarterfinal Result: Beat England 3-1 in shootout after 0-0 tie.

Stars: Goalkeeper Ricardo Pereira was superb against England, blocking a booming free kick by Frank Lampard and stopping three penalty kicks during the shootout. Luis Figo did well in the first round, then Maniche and Ricardo lifted Portugal against the Dutch.

Outlook: The Portuguese will be without midfielder Armando Petit, but they seem to have a knack of succeeding in less-than-ideal circumstances. They beat the Dutch despite Deco and Costinha getting sent off, and advanced past England without the two. And Luiz Felipe Scolari knows how to win at the World Cup. He led Brazil to seven straight wins and a fifth title four years ago, and has Portugal unbeaten in this tournament.

Portugal will welcome back Costinha and Brazilian-born Deco from suspension, and that will give Scolari more options in midfield. The two were among a record four players ejected when Portugal beat the Netherlands 1-0 in the second round.

Like Zidane for France, veteran forward Luis Figo is performing well for the Portuguese and Deco's return means he may play on the wing. But he'll have to get past Claude Makelele and Vieira if is to get anywhere near the French defense.

World Cup Semifinals Country Profile: Italy

2006-07-03T01:44:00.000-07:00

Italy

Sixteenth appearance. Best performances: Winner in 1934, 1938, 1982.

First-Round Results: Beat Ghana, drew with the United States 1-1, and finished with a 2-0 victory over the Czech Republic.

Second-Round Result: Beat Australia 1-0.

Quarterfinal Result: Beat Ukraine 3-0.

Stars: Luca Toni ended his World Cup drought in a big way, scoring twice against Ukraine, while defender Gianluca Zambrotta was brilliant with a goal, an assist and a goal-line clearance. Goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has been sensational, allowing only one own-goal, prompting Ukraine star Andriy Shevchenko to call him "the greatest goalkeeper in the world." Francesco Totti scored on a penalty kick on the final play of the win over Australia.

Outlook: Italy's offense finally got on track against Ukraine and its defense has been impressive. It has managed to ignore major distractions, first the massive corruption scandal back home, and now the condition of former teammate Gianluca Pessotto, who is hospitalized in Turin after falling out of a window. But the Azzurri haven't faced an opponent playing as well as Germany, and they will be at a decided disadvantage in front of the passionate home crowd.

The only goal Italy has conceded so far was by its own defender, Cristian Zaccardo, in a 1-1 draw with the United States. Although Alessandro Nesta remains very doubtful with a thigh injury, coach Marcello Lippi can recall Marco Materazzi after a one-game suspension to partner the in-form Fabio Cannavaro at the heart of the Italian defense.

With the AC Milan pairing of Gennaro Gattuso and Andrea Pirlo making a solid midfield, Lippi has the luxury of fielding Francesco Totti behind two strikers, Luca Toni and Alberto Gilardino. That trio will try to unsettle Per Mertesacker and Christoph Metzelder at the heart of the German defense.

World Cup Semifinal Prediction: Italy to lose against Germany, 0-2

World Cup Semifinals Country Profile: Germany

2006-07-03T01:29:00.000-07:00

Germany

Sixteenth appearance. Best performances: Winner in 1954, 1974, 1990.

First-Round Results: Victories over Costa Rica 4-2, Poland 1-0, and Ecuador 3-0.

Second-Round Result: Beat Sweden 2-0.

Quarterfinal Result: Beat Argentina 4-2 in shootout after 1-1 tie.

Stars: Miroslav Klose has five goals and has set up others for scores as he dominates opposing defenses. Jens Lehmann saved two penalty kicks to lift Germany into the semifinals, finishing off Argentina with a perfectly timed leap to deflect Esteban Cambiasso's shot. Lukas Podolski scored both goals vs. Sweden.

Outlook: Germany has been one of the best teams in the tournament, inspired by the raucous home fans and a defense that has performed better than expected. The midfield has been solid, and the team is gaining confidence with each win. Coach Juergen Klinsmann has the team playing aggressively from the opening kickoff.

The Germans have not won the title since 1990 and, despite being the host nation, initially didn't seem to be in form to capture a fourth. But German teams are renowned for overachieving. They were surprise finalists in 2002 in Japan, losing to Brazil 2-0.

WORLD CUP SEMIFINALS PICK: GERMANY 2-1 IN EXTRA TIME.

World Cup Semifinals Betting

2006-07-03T01:19:00.000-07:00

World Cup Semifinals Schedule and Matchups

2006-07-01T22:04:00.000-07:00

France ended the FIFA World Cup dreams of Brazil tonight thanks largely to a masterful display by Zinedine Zidane, and will now face Portugal, whose quarterfinal against England produced no goals but plenty of drama. On the other hand, hosts Germany battle the tough Italians to complete the World Cup semifinals cast.

World Cup Semifinals Matchups:

Germany vs Italy

Germany has been one of the best teams in the tournament, inspired by the raucous home fans and a defense that has performed better than expected. The midfield has been solid, and the team is gaining confidence with each win. Coach Juergen Klinsmann has the team playing aggressively from the opening kickoff.

Italy's offense finally got on track against Ukraine and its defense has been impressive. It has managed to ignore major distractions, first the massive corruption scandal back home, and now the condition of former teammate Gianluca Pessotto, who is hospitalized in Turin after falling out of a window. But the Azzurri haven't faced an opponent playing as well as Germany, and they will be at a decided disadvantage in front of the passionate home crowd.

Portugal vs France

The Portuguese will be without midfielder Armando Petit, but they seem to have a knack of succeeding in less-than-ideal circumstances. They beat the Dutch despite Deco and Costinha getting sent off, and advanced past England without the two. And Luiz Felipe Scolari knows how to win at the World Cup. He led Brazil to seven straight wins and a fifth title four years ago, and has Portugal unbeaten in this tournament.

France is playing better and better with each game. After squeezing into the second round and coming from behind to upset Spain, Les Bleus shocked Brazil. It wasn't the final score as much as the way they dominated the entire night, beating the Brazilians at their own beautiful game. If Zidane can recapture his youth for one more game, France could find itself back in the final.

World Cup Recap: France 1, Brazil 0

2006-07-01T21:52:00.000-07:00

A France team reminiscent of a previous vintage knocked out holders Brazil 1-0 with a Thierry Henry goal on Saturday to reach the World Cup semifinals. Striker Henry, left unmarked in the area, volleyed home a free kick from Zinedine Zidane for the winner after 57 minutes.

Les Bleus, who had stunned Brazil 3-0 in the 1998 final, produced a superb performance to set up a match with Portugal on Wednesday in Munich for a place in the July 9 final. Five-times champions Brazil, aiming to reach the World Cup final for the fourth time in succession, looked nervous throughout a game of high quality.

France's win means the great Zidane, man of the match here, has not played his last match before retirement. First they go to the semifinals against Portugal on Wednesday in Munich. With Germany playing Italy in Tuesday's semifinal in Dortmund, this is the first all-European final four since 1982 in Spain.

It was Zidane who lifted his nation past Brazil in the final eight years ago, scoring two goals for France's only title. Since then, Brazil had won 11 straight World Cup games and another championship — its fifth — and this was deemed its best squad in years. Brazil's streak of three straight finals, two of them wins, also was snapped.

Zidane, Ronaldo and Ronaldinho have won eight of the last 10 FIFA world player of the year awards. Only Zidane displayed those skills Saturday.

Portugal advance to World Cup semifinals

2006-07-01T11:39:00.000-07:00

Ten-man England were sent crashing out of the 2006 FIFA World Cup, losing a penalty shoot-out to Portugal after a controversy-packed quarterfinal battle.

Manchester United striker Cristiano Ronaldo scored the decisive spot-kick to hand Portugal a 3-1 shoot-out victory and shatter England's dream of a first World Cup for 40 years.

England's players, who saw star striker Wayne Rooney dramatically sent off and skipper David Beckham tearfully substituted in the second half, were left in shellshock as Portugal celebrated at the AufSchalke Arena.

But shootouts are not where England shines, and it now has lost five of its last six in major tournaments. Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher all saw penalties saved by Portugal keeper Ricardo while Simao and substitute Helder Postiga netted Portugal's other penalties.

Portugal, who beat England on spot-kicks at Euro 2004, will now face either France or Brazil in Wednesday's World Cup semifinals in Munich while England were left to contemplate their fifth exit on penalties in eight tournaments since 1990.

It was also the third time in three tournaments that England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson had seen his side beaten by a team coached by Brazilian World Cup winner Luiz Felipe Scolari. Portugal, Brazil — it doesn't matter to Luiz Felipe Scolari. If he's coaching, the team will beat England in the World Cup.

BRAZIL vs FRANCE: PLACE YOUR BETS NOW!!!

2006-07-01T11:10:00.000-07:00

Brazil(-160) vs France(+370)

Brazil and France meet on Saturday in a rematch of the 1998 World Cup final, and in a meeting of the last two world champions. It is also for a berth in the semi-finals along side either Portugal or England.

Brazil have a couple of minor question marks that could keep them from being full-strength, but Kaká and Emerson both came through training on Friday and are expected to start. If Kaká is unable to play, then Lyon midfielder Juninho would step in, while Arsenal's Gilberto Silva would start in place of the holding midfielder Emerson.

Also, striker Robinho will be available to play after having to miss out on the 3-0 victory over Ghana in which he wasn't needed as a substitute.

France are expected to name the same team and formation that helped them beat Spain 3-1 in the last round, with Thierry Henry starting up front alone and Patrick Vieira and Claude Makelele both in holding roles. Zinedine Zidane picked up a minor knock and missed a training session during the week, but manager Raymond Domenech insists his captain will be starting on Saturday evening.

Head to head:

The two sides have met a total of 12 times in the past with Brazil ahead in the series five wins to three. They last met two years ago in a 0-0 draw. However, the French have won two of the three games they've played in World Cups.

Probable line-ups:

Brazil: Dida, Cafú, Lúcio, Juan, Roberto Carlos, Emerson, Zé Roberto, Kaká, Ronaldinho, Adriano, Ronaldo.

France: Barthez, Sagnol, Thuram, Gallas, Abidal, Vieira, Makelele, Ribéry, Zidane, Malouda, Henry.

World Cup Recap: Portugal 3, England 1 (PK)

2006-07-01T10:59:00.000-07:00

England(1) vs Portugal(3) - Portugal win on penalty kicks

England lost David Beckham and Wayne Rooney. Then it lost a penalty shootout Saturday to Portugal. England still can't get past Portugal or Luiz Felipe Scolari.

After the English lost David Beckham to an injury and Wayne Rooney to a red card, Portugal won a shootout 3-1 Saturday night following 120 minutes of scoreless soccer.

Portugal, which also beat England on penalty kicks in the European Championship quarterfinals two years ago, meets Brazil or France on Wednesday in its first World Cup semifinal since 1966.

A Scolari-coached team knocked out England for the second straight World Cup. Four years ago, he led Brazil to a 2-1 quarterfinal win over the English en route to the title.

LAST CHANCE TO BET ON BRAZIL vs PORTUGAL...

England vs Portugal: Probable Team Lineups

2006-06-30T12:46:00.000-07:00

England(+105)

England seem set to retain a five-man midfield supporting lone striker Wayne Rooney despite their struggles with the system against Ecuador while Portugal will line up the same way behind Pauleta in a formation they have long used and perfected.

England (4-5-1):

1-Paul Robinson (25-0); 2-Gary Neville (80-0), 5-Rio Ferdinand (51-1), 6-John Terry (28-1), 3-Ashley Cole (50-0); 7-David Beckham (93-17), 8-Frank Lampard (44-11), 16-Owen Hargreaves (32-0), 4-Steven Gerrard (46-9), 11-Joe Cole (36-6); 9-Wayne Rooney (32-11)

Coach: Sven-Goran Eriksson

Portugal(+250)

Portugal (4-5-1):

1-Ricardo (53-0); 13-Miguel (32-1), 16-Ricardo Carvalho (28-1), 5-Fernando Meira (34-2), 14-Nuno Valente (26-1); 8-Armando Petit (40-4), Maniche (35-6), 11-Simao Sabrosa (47-10), 7-Luis Figo (124-32), 17-Cristiano Ronaldo (35-12); 9-Pauleta (85-47).

Coach: Luiz Felipe Scolari

England try to end World Cup jinx vs Portugal

2006-06-30T12:26:00.000-07:00

England(+105) vs Portugal(+250)

One of the two most celebrated "golden generations" in European football will reach the end of the road on Saturday when England meet Portugal in a tantalising World Cup quarterfinal. The fixture, in Gelsenkirchen, is entwined with intriguing human links and echoes of past clashes.

The two men who wear number seven captain their teams and for two years were club mates at Real Madrid. Manchester United's Portuguese winger Cristiano Ronaldo faces a direct confrontation with his club captain, England's right back Gary Neville.

But hanging over both teams is a sense of the march of time with Neville admitting that for him, Beckham and the rest who represent the crop of players known as England's 'golden generation', the clash represents a date with destiny.

It could be a step towards realising a World Cup dream or the end of those hopes as many of the squad will be past their prime by the time of the next finals in South Africa in 2010.

For Portugal, and for Figo in particular, the same holds true as he remains the last survivor of their own 'golden generation' - a group that once included Fernando Couto, Manuel Rui Costa and Manuel Joao Pinto among others.

Like Beckham, once a running winger who crossed the ball with pin-point accuracy, Figo has lost some pace and penetration, but his guile and vision has helped guide Portugal through their best World Cup in 40 years.

Brazil vs France: Probable Team Lineups

2006-06-30T12:18:00.000-07:00

Brazil will try to finish off Zinedine Zidane's career without a hint of a flourish for the Frenchman. Brazil meets France on Saturday in the World Cup quarterfinals, in what could be Zidane's last match if his team fails.

Brazil(-140)

Brazil (4-4-2):

1-Dida; 2-Cafu, 3-Lucio, 4-Juan, 6-Roberto Carlos; 17-Gilberto Silva, 11-Ze Roberto, 8-Kaka, 10-Ronaldinho; 9-Ronaldo, 23-Robinho.

Coach: Carlos Alberto Parreira

France(+350)

France (4-2-3-1):

16-Fabien Barthez; 19-Willy Sagnol, 15-Lilian Thuram, 5-William Gallas, 3-Eric Abidal; 4-Patrick Vieira, 6-Claude Makelele; 22-Franck Ribery, 10-Zinedine Zidane, 7-Florent Malouda; 12-Thierry Henry.

Coach: Raymond Domenech

Ronaldo's Brazil get World Cup rematch vs Zidane, France

2006-06-30T12:05:00.000-07:00

Brazil(-140) vs France(+350)

Memories of Zinedine Zidane's finest hour and Ronaldo's worst will be evoked when France play Brazil in Saturday's quarter-final between the last two world champions. In the 1998 final won 3-0 by France a masterful Zidane scored two headed goals while Ronaldo, taken ill in the team hotel before the game, could only offer a dazed performance.

Brazil went on to win their fifth title four years ago and have not lost a World Cup match since being stunned by the French at the Stade de France.

Les Bleus, by contrast, have struggled since lifting the trophy for the first time, leaving the 2002 finals without a win or a goal from the group stage.

Parreira is sweating on the fitness of Kaka and Emerson, who both picked up knee injuries against Ghana, while Domenech has worries of his own with Zidane missing training on Thursday.

The playmaker received treatment on a bruise he sustained against Spain, although a team spokesman said it was just a precautionary measure. Zidane, who will end his glittering career after the finals, knows every match now could be his last.

The aging maestro feared he would have to leave by the back door after France started the finals with dismal displays but they have now stepped up a gear and all seems in place for a decent farewell, if not a triumphant one.

Like Zidane, Ronaldo, now the most prolific scorer in World Cup history with 15 goals, started with below-par performances before scoring in successive games against Japan and Ghana.

Now the two meet again in what could be a classic encounter.

World Cup Recap: Germany beat Argentina on penalties

2006-06-30T12:01:00.000-07:00

Germany 5 vs Argentina 3 (PK)

There's no end to Germany's resourcefulness and tenacity at this World Cup. The Germans relentlessly wore down Argentina, scored a tying goal in the 80th minute Friday, then won it 4-2 in a penalty-kick shootout as goalkeeper Jens Lehmann stopped two shots and the hosts made all four of theirs.

Rather than getting desperate when they fell behind for the first time in the tournament, the Germans pressed the attack and beat Argentina's backup goalkeeper Leonardo Franco -- playing only his third game with Argentina and his first minutes of the World Cup -- on Miroslav Klose's header to pull even 1-1.

After a scoreless extra time, Germany grabbed a spot in the semifinals opposite the Italy-Ukraine winner by dominating the shootout against the second-string keeper, who never came close on any of the shots.

So the party heads to Dortmund on Tuesday as the hosts seek their fourth world title. Argentina heads home exhausted, despite controlling the ball for most of the game. This was most anticipated match of the World Cup so far, pairing Germany's resurgent offense against the team that had scored two of the most spectacular goals of the tournament. But if this was the classic soccer so many hoped for, it was a major disappointment early on -- even the 72,000 fans seemed let down, and the usual fervor was missing.

That changed as the drama built, right into the shootout. Oliver Neuville, Michael Ballack, Lukas Podolski and Tim Borowski had no trouble with Franco in the shootout. Roberto Ayala, who scored in the 49th minute, and Esteban Cambiasso were stopped by Lehmann, who guessed correctly on both shots he let through and nearly stopped those as well.

When Lehmann made the final save by diving to his right, the German players, who stood arm-in-arm on the field, sprinted to mob him. The crowd, which less than an hour before sensed an early end to the festivities with their team down 1-0, erupted with singing, flag-waving and chants for their heroes.

The Argentines trudged off with a painful defeat. The end was marred by pushing and shoving on the field, with several Argentine players surrounding the referee before order was restored.

In the 80th minute, Ballack lofted a pass into the penalty area that substitute Borowski blindly headed across the goalmouth for Klose, who ducked inside a defender, dived toward the net and headed it past Franco into the far corner of the goal.

The inexperienced Franco had replaced Roberto Abbondanzieri, who came out in the 71st, about five minutes after a collision with Klose following a free kick. The visitors controlled the ball for two-thirds of the first half, dictating a slower pace that frustrated the Germans. But the hosts created the only true scoring chance in the half, with captain Ballack putting a header wide and high in the 16th minute off a brilliant lob by Bernd Schneider.

Germany, Argentina 2006 World Cup Statistics

2006-06-28T20:52:00.000-07:00

A review of the teams’ shots at goal provides a minor surprise: the Germans have required 78 attempts, 38 of them on target, to record their ten goals, almost twice as many as Argentina, who have the same number of goals from 41 attempts, 21 of them on target.

Both teams have landed roughly half their attempts on the target (Germany 49 per cent, Argentina 51 per cent), so the South Americans clearly rate as the more efficient of the pair. Approximately every fourth Argentine effort has resulted in a goal (24 per cent), whereas the Germans have only netted one shot in eight (13 per cent).

Germany are ahead by a wafer-thin margin in terms of passing. Klinsmann's team have completed 1,748 of a total of 2,070 passes (84 per cent), whereas the Argentines have found a team-mate with 1,666 out of 1,998 (83 per cent). The hosts have had more success with their crosses too, landing 33 out of 111 on a team-mate's head, chest or foot (30 per cent). By comparison Argentina have managed this on only ten occasions out of 66 (15 per cent).

The Germans are also slightly ahead on discipline with five yellow cards compared with Argentina’s eight bookings. Germany have committed 66 fouls to the South Americans' 69, although the situation is reversed for fouls suffered: opponents have fouled Argentina 83 times to Germany’s 70.

The hosts lead the way in terms of possession, having controlled the ball for 227 minutes in their four matches to Argentina's 205 minutes. Much more surprisingly, the Albiceleste have only launched a paltry six counterattacks, compared to an impressive 26 quick-fire breaks by the host nation.

Ultimately, however, the Argentines will derive both comfort and inspiration from their overall record in this tantalising fixture. The two nations have met 16 times at full international level, with five wins for Germany, four draws, and seven Argentine victories, the two-time world champions finding the net 23 times to the Europeans’ tally of 22.

World Cup Preview: Argentina vs Germany Quarterfinals Matchup

2006-06-28T20:24:00.000-07:00

The rivalry between Argentina and Germany is an old one, including two World Cup finals, with one victory each. And it's bubbling up again.

The teams meet again Friday, when the quarterfinal in Berlin puts Argentine wonder boy Lionel Messi and Lukas Podolski of Germany on center stage. But for the two young stars, the World Cups that started it all exist only in the books — or the videos.

Messi, who just turned 19, wasn't even born when Diego Maradona led Argentina to a 3-2 win over Germany in the 1986 final in Mexico. Four years later, Germany took its revenge, disposing 1-0 of Argentina to win its third world title.

The free-flowing hosts surged into the last eight with a 2-0 win over 10-man Sweden and will be meeting the South Americans for the fifth time at the finals in a match that promises to be a tight affair. Germany coach Jurgen Klinsmann was part of the team that beat Argentina 1-0 in the 1990 World Cup final in Italy and took revenge for the 3-2 defeat to the Argentines in the 1986 final in Mexico.

The Argentines, who like Germany have scored 10 goals and only conceded two en route to the last eight, will take comfort and inspiration from their overall record in this tantalizing fixture. In 16 full international levels there have been five wins for Germany, four draws, and seven Argentine victories.

Germany(+145) vs Argentina(+188)

World Cup Game Tips: Germany to beat Argentina, 2-1.

Live World Cup Odds and Lines from Nine.com

2006-06-28T19:47:00.000-07:00

And then there were eight! It's all the usual suspects - Brazil, England, Germany, Argentina, Italy, etcetera - in fact, all but Ukraine are world soccer giants. It's the quarterfinals! Get your World Cup odds at Nine.com Sportsbook!

World Cup Quarterfinals Matchup:

Germany(+145) vs Argentina(+188)

Germany has been one of the best teams thus far, inspired by being the hosts and by a defense that has performed better than expected. There is no lack of scoring and the midfield has been solid. Coach Juergen Klinsmann has the team playing aggressively from the opening kickoff.

If anybody was the overall favorite after the first round, it was Argentina. Then it struggled against Mexico, which barely made it to the second round. But the Argentines are deep and resourceful and certainly present the toughest challenge Germany has faced.

Italy(-166) vs Ukraine(+550)

Italy was fortunate to get a questionable penalty kick at the end of the Australia match. The defense has been solid, with Buffon spectacular at times, but the Italians need to find more in attack at some point. That point might not be this round against Ukraine.

The defense has recovered since the opening rout against the Spaniards. But Ukraine showed so little until the shootout in the second round that beating Italy might be too formidable a task for the first-time qualifier.

England(+105) vs Portugal(+250)

Although they are in the quarterfinals, the English have not played particularly well, sneaking past inferior opponents. Portugal appear to be a stiffer test, but is without several suspended or injured players. England needs to apply more pressure with the ball and get Wayne Rooney more opportunities near the net.

Not good with Deco and Costinha both suspended for red cards against the Netherlands. The Portuguese can't afford to be so chippy again vs. England, and must dig deep into its bench. If both teams were at full strength, Portugal might be favored. Not now.

Brazil(-140) vs France(+350)

Brazil still is having some problems in defense and Ghana had chances to score. But there's always the feeling the defending champions can outscore any rival. And what happens when player of the year Ronaldinho gets going?

The French squeezed into the second round and fell behind Spain, then found their touch for an upset. They will bring lots of confidence into their rematch of the 1998 final with Brazil. But is that enough?

World Cup Quarterfinals Cast and Matchups

2006-06-27T17:20:00.000-07:00

And then there were eight. The quarterfinal line-up for the 2006 FIFA World Cup was completed with victories for Brazil and France as Ghana's journey and the hopes of Spain came to an end. For Ronaldo there was a place in history too.

World Cup Quarterfinals Matchup:

Germany vs Argentina

Italy vs Ukraine

England vs Portugal

Brazil vs France

France set up dream World Cup quarterfinal match vs Brazil

2006-06-27T17:07:00.000-07:00

France have nothing to fear against Brazil in the World Cup quarter-finals following their 3-1 win over Spain on Tuesday, midfielder Patrick Vieira said. France came from a goal down to set up a repeat of the 1998 final which the French won 3-0 on home soil, a game in which Vieira came on as substitute.

"After tonight's game, we should not fear anyone," Vieira told reporters. "Now facing Brazil is fantastic because they are a yardstick from the last World Cup," Vieira said of the showdown with the World Cup holders. "It reminds me of when I came on with 15 minutes to go in 1998 final and I took a little part in third goal, to Emmanuel Petit, it's a fantastic challenge."

Vieira, who turned 30 on Friday, scored his second goal in successive matches, picking up a second man of the match award along the way. He grabbed France's second goal of the game to put his side in front in the 83rd minute when he pounced after Xabi Alonso headed Zinedine Zidane's free kick towards his own goal.

Franck Ribery, latching on to a Vieira pass, cancelled out David Villa's 28th minute penalty just before the break with Zidane putting the game beyond doubt with an injury time goal.

"The goal before the break was a psychological boost. During the second half we just tried to control the game and await our chances," Vieira said.

France stumbled through qualification for the finals and followed up by struggling in the group stages, finishing second to Switzerland and just edging out South Korea. But Vieira said there was better still to come.

"This is a fantastic victory, we beat a very strong Spanish side. We moved up a gear from the last game, we were strong in defence and midfield, never panicked," he said.

"Our goal is to go all the way. We're not there yet, but I'm sure we can play even better."

World Cup Recap: Brazil 3, Ghana 0

2006-06-27T10:12:00.000-07:00

Brazil advanced past newcomer Ghana with three streaking goals Tuesday, the first an early flash by Ronaldo that made him the most prolific scorer in World Cup history.

Ronaldo netted his 15th World Cup goal in the fifth minute -- passing German Gerd Mueller to become the tournament's all-time leading scorer -- and Adriano and Ze Roberto added one each to give Brazil the 3-0 win.

Ghana made Brazil work for its 11th straight World Cup win, challenging the five-time champions and outplaying them at times, but their shots were either right at goalkeeper Dida or off the mark.

The result secured Brazil in the quarterfinals for the fourth straight time. The last time it was eliminated in the second round was in 1990 in Italy, when it lost to archrival Argentina.

Brazil will face either France or Spain, which play later Tuesday in Hanover.

Each of Brazil's goals was built upon long, penetrating passes.

The first, by Ronaldo, put Brazil ahead in the fifth minute with a brilliant stepover move before beating Ghana goalkeeper Richard Kingson. The striker broke the offside trap near midfield after a perfectly timed pass from midfielder Kaka.

Adriano added to Brazil's lead in a breakaway one minute into first-half injury time, using his left thigh to complete a right-flank cross from captain Cafu. Defender Lucio started the play at midfield, giving the ball to Kaka, who then found Cafu on the right side.

Replays showed Adriano appeared to be offside when he touched the ball into the net. Fans heavily booed when the big screen at the stadium showed the replay.

Ze Roberto closed the scoring in the 84th, getting past Kingson and finding the open net.

Ukraine and Italy to clash in World Cup quarterfinals

2006-06-27T09:59:00.000-07:00

Andriy Shevchenko will get the chance to put one over on several of his former colleagues when Ukraine face Italy in the quarter-finals of the World Cup after the two sides won tight second-round encounters on Monday.

Shevchenko missed the first kick of the penalty shootout against Switzerland but it was not costly as three Swiss players failed from the spot to send Ukraine into the last eight on their first appearance in the finals.

The match had ended 0-0 after extra time and the Swiss went out despite not losing any of their four matches in normal time, and became the first team to go out without conceding a goal.

Andriy Shevchenko will get the chance to put one over on several of his former colleagues when Ukraine face Italy in the quarter-finals of the World Cup after the two sides won tight second-round encounters on Monday.

Shevchenko missed the first kick of the penalty shootout against Switzerland but it was not costly as three Swiss players failed from the spot to send Ukraine into the last eight on their first appearance in the finals.

The match had ended 0-0 after extra time and the Swiss went out despite not losing any of their four matches in normal time, and became the first team to go out without conceding a goal.

And Italy could be further strengthened for the Ukraine match with Alessandro Nesta working hard to return after missing the Australia match with a groin injury.

Germany Faces Argentina in host's biggest World Cup test so far

2006-06-27T09:29:00.000-07:00

Germany's soccer coach and players say their best World Cup start since 1970 may count for nothing if Argentina, their quarterfinal opponent, performs to its potential.

"They have showed some of the best football in this World Cup," coach Juergen Klinsmann, one of the team that beat Argentina in the 1990 final, told reporters. The quarterfinal "will be a big, big hurdle."

Germany won its second-round match 2-0 against Sweden two days ago on Lukas Podolski's early goals, while Argentina needed extra time and a strike described as "exceptional" by FIFA analyst Andy Roxburgh to overcome Mexico 2-1.

The June 30 contest, the first at this tournament between former champions, in front of 72,000 fans at Berlin's Olympic Stadium is likely to be a highlight of the month-long event, according to former Argentina captain Diego Maradona. Germany and Argentina, with five titles between them, have met at four World Cups including two finals.

In the 1986 showdown in Mexico City, Argentina fought off a late rally by Germany and Jorge Burruchaga made it 3-2 to allow Maradona to lift the trophy. Four years later in Rome, Maradona was in tears as Andreas Brehme's 85th-minute penalty kick settled the match for Germany.

"It will be the match of the tournament," Maradona told Deutsche Press-Agentur. "It will be hard against Germany. They have played well, have a very good midfield and are the hosts."

Germany, slammed before the tournament by the national press for its weak defense, is trying to reestablish its reputation as a soccer powerhouse after failing since 2000 to beat any of the other six winners of the tournament.

Germany has allowed two goals in its four games so far, both against Costa Rica in the tournament opener. Since that game, captain Michael Ballack has helped to shield the defense.

Ecuador dropped five players before its 3-0 defeat against the host because they had already qualified for the second round, while Sweden's Teddy Lucic was ejected with two-thirds of the match remaining.

Argentina, the second favorite behind Brazil, produced this World Cup's biggest victory on June 16 as Juan Riquelme and Lionel Messi led the team's 6-0 crushing of Serbia and Montenegro. The two-time world champion topped its group and beat Mexico as Maxi Rodriguez chested the ball and struck a left-foot volley into the opposite top corner.

Live World Cup Betting Odds and Lines: France vs Spain, Brazil vs Ghana

2006-06-26T21:20:00.000-07:00

France vs Spain:

France (+225) vs Spain (+120) DRAW (+200)

Betting Tips: BET on a 3-2 WIN for France

Brazil vs Ghana:

Brazil (-425) vs Ghana (+900) DRAW (+450)

Betting Tips: BET on Brazil to win, 4-1

World Cup Preview: France vs Spain

2006-06-26T21:18:00.000-07:00

One of the top clashes in the round of sixteen must be the match between tournament revelations Spain and 1998 World Champions France.

The Spaniards particularly convinced in their first two group matches, after which Luis Aragon・ men took it easy against Saudi Arabia. The French meanwhile, disappointed in their first two games but advanced nevertheless thanks to a 2-0 win over South Korea in the final group match.

Francesc Fabregas and Raul are the most notable names in Spain's probable line-up, with Luis Garcia and Marcos Senna likely to start on the bench. Zinedine Zidane is back for France after a suspension, and the same goes for Eric Abidal. Raymond Domenech said to leave his decision of whether Henry should play alone or with Trezeguet, for Tuesday.

Head to head:

As neighbours, these two countries have faced each other 27 times of which Spain won eleven and France ten. The two never met at a World Cup, but in their three European Championships encounters, France won twice and drew once.

Probable line-ups:

Spain: Casillas, Sergio Ramos, Puyol, Pablo, Pernia, Xavi, Alonso, Fabregas, Raul, Torres, Villa.

France: Barthez, Gallas, Abidal, Thuram, Sagnol, Malouda, Makelele, Vieira, Zidane, Ribery, Henry.

World Cup Preview: Brazil vs Ghana

2006-06-26T20:54:00.000-07:00

Five-times World Champions Brazil are four matches away from their sixth trophy, but Ghana will do all they can to advance at the expense of the title defenders. The Brazilians are without Robinho for this match, as the Real Madrid striker suffered a minor thigh injury and is expected to be replaced with Adriano.

Ghana miss one of their most influential players, as Michael Essien is suspended after picking up two yellow cards in the group stage. Another doubt for the Africans is Razak Pimpong, who injured a rib in his team's last group match with the United States.

Head to head:

These two teams met once before, in 1996, when the Brazilians won 8-2. Dida, Kuffour and Kingson appeared in that game.

Probable line-ups:

Brazil: Dida; Cafu, Lucio, Juan, Roberto Carlos; Gilberto Silva, Juninho Pernambucano, Kaka, Ronaldinho; Ronaldo, Adriano.

Ghana: Richard Kingston; John Paintsil, Habib Mohammed, John Mensah, Shilla Illiasu; Derek Boateng, Stephen Appiah, Otto Addo, Sulley Muntari; Matthew Amoah, Asamoah Gyan.

First time meetings for World Cup quartet

2006-06-26T02:11:00.000-07:00

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.

BET on Italy vs Australia HERE!!!

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.

BET on Ukraine vs Switzerland HERE!!!

Live World Cup Betting Odds and Lines: Italy vs Australia, Ukraine vs Switzerland

2006-06-25T17:48:00.000-07:00

Italy vs Australia:

Italy (-200) vs Australia (+550) DRAW (+250)

Betting Tips: BET on a 3-2 WIN for Italy

Ukraine vs Switzerland:

Ukrainel (+200) vs Switzerland (+140) DRAW (+195)

Betting Tips: BET on Ukraine to win, 2-1

World Cup Preview: Italy vs Australia Fixed Betting Odds

2006-06-25T17:45:00.000-07:00

Australia look to advance to their first-ever quarter-finals in the World Cup on Monday when they take on the favored Italians in Kaiserslautern.

Guus Hiddink's Socceroos will be a bit shorthanded heading into the match as midfielder Brett Emerton is suspended after being sent off against Croatia. Jason Culina is likely to step in and take his place with Marco Bresciano also starting. Harry Kewell, who scored the dramatic equalizer that put the Aussies through to the Round of 16, could also miss out with a groin injury.

As for Italy, veteran center-back Alessandro Nesta will miss the game after suffering a thigh injury in their 2-0 victory over the Czech Republic, meaning Marco Materazzi will start from the beginning.

Italy is also without Daniele De Rossi for the next three games after being banned for his elbow on Brian McBride in their 1-1 draw with the USA.

Head to head:

These two teams have never met before.

Probable line-ups:

Italy: Buffon, Zambrotta, Materazzi, Cannavaro, Grosso, Pirlo, Perrotta, Gattuso, Totti, Gilardino, Toni.

Australia: Schwarzer, Moore, Neill, Chipperfield, Culina, Grella, Bresciano, Cahill, Sterjovski, Kewell, Viduka.

World Cup Game Preview: Ukraine vs Switzerland

2006-06-25T17:42:00.000-07:00

Switzerland and Ukraine square off on Monday as a pair of World Cup darkhouses look to advance to the Round of 16 in Cologne. Switzerland, who won Group G ahead of France, are without Arsenal defender Philippe Senderos for the rest of the tournament after he suffered a dislocated shoulder in the 2-0 win over Korea Republic.

Therefore, Johan Djourou will deputize for him and Daniel Gygax will be able to play after missing the match against the Koreans, but Hakan Yakin will likely start again in attack. Ukraine have two players suspended for the game against the

Swiss, as Vyacheslav Sviderskyi and Andriy Rusol are absent.

After not shutting out an opponent in 22 all-time World Cup games, Switzerland were the only side not to allow a goal in the group stage.

Ukraine have been scored against in one game this year, their 4-0 Group H opening defeat to Spain, and they are one of two debutants (Ghana) to advance to the knockout rounds of this tournament.

Head to head:

This will be the first meeting between these two nations.

Probable line-ups:

Switzerland: Zuberbühler, Spycher, Djourou, Müller, P. Degen, Wicky, Vogel, Cabañas, Barnetta, Frei, Yakin.

Ukraine: Shovkovskyi, Yezerskyi, Vashchuk, Nesmachnyi, Gusev, Tymoschuk, Shelayev, Kalinichenko, Rebrov, Shevchenko, Voronin.

World Cup Recap: England, Portugal book quarterfinal seat

2006-06-25T17:30:00.000-07:00

England 1, Ecuador 0

David Beckham bent the ball over the wall and squeezed England into the World Cup quarterfinals. Beckham curled a trademark 25-yard free kick just inside the post in the 60th minute, giving England an ugly 1-0 victory over Ecuador on Sunday and a berth against Portugal.

For an hour, the English aimlessly passed the ball around the field in the 90-degree heat of Baden-Wuerttemberg. The game turned when Edwin Tenorio fouled Frank Lampard outside the penalty area.

Beckham, whose free kicks inspired the 2003 movie title "Bend it Like Beckham," hooked the ball ever so carefully over a defensive wall of four Ecuadoreans in bright yellow shirts.

Struck with expert touch, the ball dipped toward the corner, where goalkeeper Cristian Mora dived to his right and caught a piece of it with his fingertips. But he couldn't stop it as it shaved the post and squirted into the net.

Beckham, who had worn short sleeves in the first half, switched to long sleeves after the break. Shortly after the goal, he vomited on the field.

Portugal 1, Netherlands 0

In Nuremberg, the World Cup turned ugly as Portugal, down to nine men in a game of brutal fouls, held off the Netherlands and staggered into the quarterfinals. Both sides were guilty. Pushing, shoving and theatrics led to a record-tying 16 yellow cards - and desperate attacking by the Dutch, also down to nine men, in the final moments.

The Portuguese might have survived, but when they play England they also might be without Cristiano Ronaldo, a creative attacker lost to a leg injury in the first half. Portugal's coach, Luiz Felipe Scolari, extended his World Cup mark to 11 straight victories, none more venomous than this.

Maniche scored the only goal. A quick threat on the edge of the area in the 23rd minute ended with Pauleta touching the ball to Maniche, who skipped inside a defender and shot right-footed past goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar from 16 yards.

Live World Cup Betting Odds and Lines: England vs Ecuador, Portugal vs Netherlands

2006-06-25T06:41:00.000-07:00

England vs Ecuador:

England (-225) vs Ecuador (+600) DRAW (+260)

Betting Tips: BET on a 2-1 WIN for England

Portugal vs Netherlands:

Portugal (+200) vs Netherlands (+130) DRAW (+210)

Betting Tips: BET on Netherlands to win, 2-1

World Cup Preview: England face tough Ecuador

2006-06-25T06:37:00.000-07:00

England are likely to name a one-striker formation on Saturday as they square off in a do or die Round of 16 match against upstart Ecuador in Stuttgart.

The ACL injury to striker Michael Owen leaves Sven-Göran with just three strikers, and it is expected that Wayne Rooney will start alone up front with Peter Crouch and Theo Walcott left on the bench.

Gary Neville will miss out again, but Eriksson will also withhold Jamie Carragher, meaning Owen Hargreaves will start at right-back, with Spurs' Michael Carrick starting in his spot in midfield. Rio Ferdinand, who came off with a groin injury against Sweden, could also miss out with Sol Campbell set to deputize if needed.

On the side of Ecuador, they rested many starters in their loss to Germany, but will have a full-strength side to select from. Ecuador defeated Costa Rica and Poland before losing to Germany, capturing second place in Group A and advancing to the second round of the World Cup for the first time in just their second-ever appearance.

Head to head:

The teams met only once, in a 1970 friendly that England won 2-0.

Probable line-ups:

England: Robinson, Hargreaves, Ferdinand, Terry, A. Cole, Carrick, Beckham, Lampard, Gerrard, J. Cole, Rooney.

Ecuador: Mora, de la Cruz, Hurtado, Espinoza, Reasco, Méndez, Castillo, Valencia, E. Tenorio, Delgado, C. Tenorio

World Cup Game Preview: Portugal vs. Netherlands

2006-06-25T06:32:00.000-07:00

The late game on Sunday promises to be another thriller as Portugal take on the Netherlands, with the winner advancing to the quarter-finals of the World Cup.

Portugal won Group C, and did so by resting several of their stars in a victory over Mexico. All of those players are expected back in the line-up after not being suspended. Pauleta, Cristiano Ronaldo and Deco will be back in the line-up, while the situation is not as clear on the Dutch side of the touchline.

Marco van Basten has publically said he might well name Dirk Kuyt as the central attacker in his 4-3-3 formation over the more experienced Ruud van Nistelrooy. Also, John Heitinga is expected to be back in the starting XI at right-back after overcoming a hamstring injury. If he can't go, Khalid Boulahrouz will deputize once again.

Head to head:

Portugal and the Netherlands have met nine times previously, with the Iberian side winning five matches to just one for the Netherlands. Their last meeting was a memorable one as Portugal won 2-1 in the Euro 2004 semi-finals.

Probable line-ups:

Portugal: Ricardo, Miguel, R. Carvalho, Meira, N. Valente, Costinha, Maniche, Figo, Deco, C. Ronaldo, Pauleta.

Netherlands: van der Sar, Heitinga, Ooijer, Mathijsen, van Bronckhorst, van Bommel, Sneijder, Cocu, van Persie, van Nistelrooy/Kuyt, Robben.

World Cup heavyweights aim to progress: England, Netherlamds, Portugal all in action

2006-06-25T06:27:00.000-07:00

The Round of 16 continues apace with a FIFA World Cup first as England line up against Ecuador, while old foes Portugal and Netherlands lock horns in the second fixture.

The matches

England-Ecuador, 17:00 (CET), Stuttgart
Though these two sides have never met at a FIFA World Cup, with a place in the quarter-finals at stake, both coaches will have done their homework. So far, Ecuador have been one of the revelations of the tournament, progressing through Group A with a seductive approach to the game, while their opponents just about achieved what was required of them. Joe Cole's vivacious wing play has been a boon to the former world champions, but the serious injury to Michael Owen has left them dependent on the much-debated fitness of Wayne Rooney.

BET on England vs Ecuador HERE!!!

Portugal–Netherlands, 21:00, Nuremberg
Portugal advanced with relative ease through the group phase and now find themselves in the second round for the first time in 40 years. The Netherlands are the side hoping to stop them in their tracks, and they served up some excellent football on the way to finishing second behind Argentina in a tough group. History seems to favour the Portuguese, though, as they have won five of their nine clashes with the Dutch, drawing three and losing just one.

BET on Portugal vs Netherlands HERE!!!

Probable Lineups: Argentina vs Mexico, Germany vs Sweden

2006-06-23T20:46:00.000-07:00

Argentina vs Mexico

Probable teams: Argentina (4-4-2):

1-Roberto Abbondanzieri; 4-Fabricio Coloccini, 2-Roberto Ayala, 6-Gabriel Heinze, 3-Juan Pablo Sorin; 18-Maxi Rodriguez, 8-Javier Mascherano, 5-Esteban Cambiasso, 10-Juan Roman Riquelme; 7-Javier Saviola, 9-Hernan Crespo

Coach: Jose Pekerman

Mexico (5-3-2):

1-Oswaldo Sanchez; 16-Mario Mendez, 4-Rafael Marquez, 5-Ricardo Osorio, 3-Carlos Salcido, 14-Gonzalo Pineda; 6-Gerardo Torrado, 7-Antonio Naelson "Zinha", 8-Pavel Pardo; 9-Jared Borgetti, 17-Jose Francisco Fonseca

Coach: Ricardo La Volpe

Argentina (-625) vs Mexico (+425) DRAW (+250)

Betting Tips: BET on a 2-2 DRAW

Germany vs Sweden

Germany (4-4-2):

1-Jens Lehmann (35-0); 3-Arne Friedrich (39-0), 21-Christoph Metzelder (24-0), 17-Per Mertesacker (26-1), 16-Philipp Lahm (21-2); 19-Bernd Schneider (67-1), 8-Torsten Frings (55-8), 13-Michael Ballack (67-31), 7-Bastian Schweinsteiger (31-7); 20-Lukas Podolski (28-13), 11-Miroslav Klose (58-28)

Coach: Juergen Klinsmann

Sweden (4-4-2):

1-Andreas Isaksson (41-0); 3-Olof Mellberg (67-2), 4-Teddy Lucic (84-0), 5-Erik Edman (40-1), 7-Niclas Alexandersson (90-7); 6-Tobias Linderoth (61-1), 9-Fredrik Ljungberg (60-13), 21-Christian Wilhelmsson (32-2), 16-Kim Kallstrom (37-4); 20-Marcus Allback (59-24), 11-Henrik Larsson (92-36)

Coach: Lars Lagerback

Gemany (-160) vs Sweden (+450) DRAW (+230)

Betting Tips: BET on a 1-1 DRAW

WORLD CUP: GERMANY V SWEDEN BETTING ODDS PREVIEW

2006-06-23T20:35:00.000-07:00

The first game in stage two of the World Cup takes place on Saturday when the hosts Germany do battle with Sweden with a place in the World Cup quarter-finals at stake. The two nations have traded punches on twelve occasions, and Germany hold sway having won seven of the dozen matches in question, four ending all square, and just one going to the Scandinavians.

The second round clash between Germany and Sweden is set to pit Arsenal stars Freddie Ljungberg against Jens Lehmann for the first time. The two players were key factors in the North London club's progress to the final of the Champions League last season.

But the Swede will be desperate to get one over on the German as his team look to beat the World Cup hosts for the first time since 1978. Ladbrokes make Ljungberg 12/1 to score the game's first goal, 7/2 to notch at any time, 10/1 to score a penalty and 25/1 to miss one.

Lehmann, who saved a spot-kick from Juan Riquleme in the semi finals of the Champions League, is 20/1 to repeat that feat. He is 12/1 to concede a penalty and even money to keep a clean sheet, as the country's line up for the first time since the semi-final of Euro 1992.

The game finished 3-2 to Germany that day and a repeat scoreline is priced at 25/1.

Given the style of both sides, one suspects that this game will be high octane, end to end stuff and, one also suspects - and hopes - there will be goals to boot! Indeed, while there will obviously be a degree of caution involved in the approach of both given the magnitude of the game, it's hard to envisage this game failing to produce net-ruffling activity.

World Cup Preview: Argentina vs Mexico Betting Odds

2006-06-23T20:24:00.000-07:00

On Saturday Mexico will play Argentina in the World Cup for only the second time in their history. Way back in the first ever World Cup, in 1930 Argentina beat Mexico 6–3. There will not be any revenge issues since no one remembers that, but there will be plenty at stake in this game.

Mexico has had an old love/hate relationship with Argentina. Most recently, the Mexicans are bitter over the Confederations Cup loss to Argentina last year on penalty kicks. Mexico isn’t fond of the fact that Argentina won the World Cup which Mexico hosted in 1986, while in Argentina in ’78 El Tri didn’t even win a game to make it out of the first round.

There are countless Argentinean players in the Mexican league, as well as several coaches, even the national team has Guillermo Franco and its coach Ricardo La Volpe, but in Argentina, it is rare to see any foreign players, or coaches.

Mexico’s coach was a backup goalkeeper for the 1978 World Cup championship team. However, his career took off in Mexico, where he has been for 26 years, and coached the national side since 2002.

LaVolpe guarded the net during an Argentina friendly in Mexico August 31st, 1975 at Azteca Stadium, which ended 1-1 draw. After the ’78 World Cup he came to Mexico to play for Atlante, and after his retirement, went on to coach various club sides, and led Atlante to the 1992 championship.

His career peaked when he was selected to replace Manuel Lapuente as national team coach in ’02, in order to get the team to the 2006 World Cup. His first game as head coach was February 4th, 2003 against Argentina, who won 1-0.

Will his last game also be against Argentina?

So far this is the most intriguing match-up of the field of 16. The closest thing we could get to a rivalry. You can bet Mexico will get up for this game, unlike the Angola and Portugal games.

Nevertheless, Argentina’s firepower will overwhelm Mexico in the end. Though they won’t score six goals, Argentina will tango all the way to the quarterfinals.

Live World Cup Betting Odds and Lines

2006-06-23T01:49:00.000-07:00

Ukraine vs Tunisia:

Ukraine (-155) vs Tunisia (+400) DRAW (+250)

Betting Tips: BET on a 1-1 DRAW

Spain vs Saudi Arabia:

Spain (-550) vs Saudi Arabia (+1200) DRAW (+510)

Betting Tips: BET on Spain to win

Togo vs France:

Togo (+1200) vs France (-500) DRAW (+450)

Betting Tips: BET on France to win

South Korea vs Switzerland:

South Korea (+300) vs Switzerland (+110) DRAW (+180)

Betting Tips: BET on a 1-1 DRAW

Two more R of 16 berths up for grabs in final World Cup group games

2006-06-23T01:39:00.000-07:00

There are bound to be a few frayed nerves as this exciting final batch of group matches gets underway. In Group G, only Togo have been eliminated so far, leaving Switzerland, France and South Korea to tussle for two priceless berths in the Round of 16. Meanwhile, Spain have already booked their ticket from Group H, but Ukraine, Tunisia and, to a lesser extent, Saudi Arabia, will all be hoping to join them there.

Ukraine - Tunisia, 16:00 (CET), Berlin, Group H. Ukraine picked themselves up after their opening game debacle with a crushing win over Saudi Arabia in the second match, and can secure a place in the knockout stage with a single point against Tunisia. Their opponents can afford nothing less than a win, but will they have recovered in time from their hard-fought clash with Spain?

BET on Ukraine vs Tunisia HERE!!!

Saudi Arabia - Spain, 16:00, Kaiserslautern, Group H. The Saudis need not one but two miracles if they are to avoid heading home after today's encounter. First of all they must overcome Spain by five clear goals and then, should they manage that, they need Ukraine and Tunisia to play out a stalemate in the other game. In the Spanish camp, coach Luis Aragones has indicated he will rest key players.

BET on Saudi Arabia vs Spain HERE!!!

Togo - France, 21:00, Cologne, Group G. Despite two lacklustre draws, France still control their own destiny going into their final match. As in 2002, they need a 2-0 triumph to be sure of advancing, should the game between Switzerland and South Korea end in a draw. In the event either of those two sides emerges victorious, a one-goal victory would see Les Bleus go through. As for the Togolese, they have nothing but pride at stake as they bid a fond farewell to the world’s greatest football tournament.

BET on Togo vs France HERE!!!

Switzerland - South Korea, 21:00, Hanover, Group G. The winner of this game is assured of first place in the standings, whereas a draw - combined with a France victory - would leave everyone frantically checking goal difference. The higher the score here, the more goals the French would need to qualify in top spot.

BET on Switzerland vs South Korea HERE!!!

Fearless Togo ready to end World Cup glory era for France

2006-06-22T17:35:00.000-07:00

Togo are without a chance to advance to the next round, but slumping France will need a win in order to join the best sixteen nations of the world.

Currently, France have two points while Switzerland and Korea Republic have four, and face each other in their final match. A draw between those two teams, could mean the end for France if 'Les Bleus' don't win by more than one goal.

Jean-Paul Abalo returns from a suspension, to form part of Togo's starting line-up of what is to be their final match at their first World Cup.

Zinedine Zidane is suspended and expected to be replaced by who is generally mentioned as his successor, Franck Ribery. Mikael Silvestre may take the place of another suspended player, Eric Abidal. Meanwhile, Raymond Domenech is set to add a strike, and this could be either David Trezeguet or Louis Saha.

After their disappointing performance in 2002, France will want to restore their pride this year. Four years ago, they only earned one point and lost their last match against Denmark. These two sides have never met each other in the past.

Probable line-ups:

Togo: Kossi Agassa; Dare Nibombe, Jean Paul Abalo, Massamesso Tchangai, Kuami Agboh; Thomas Dossevi, Cherif Toure Mamam, Yao Aziawanou, Mohamed Kader Coubadja; Richmond Forson, Emmanuel Adebayor.

France: Fabien Barthez; Willy Sagnol, Lilian Thuram, William Gallas, Mikael Silvestre; Franck Ribery, Patrick Vieira, Claude Makelele, Florent Malouda; David Trezeguet, Thierry Henry.

World Cup Preview: South Korea aim to scale Swiss mountain

2006-06-22T17:29:00.000-07:00

South Korea will have to conjure up more of their 2002 magic to pull a last 16 place out of the hat with victory over Switzerland in their Group G crunch match in Hanover on Friday.

A comeback 2-1 win over Togo and a much-acclaimed 1-1 draw with 1998 world champions France could be to no avail because of Switzerland's marginally better goal difference which gives them the luxury of just needing a point from the final group fixture.

If the Koreans lose to the powerful, clockwork-like Swiss and France beat trouble-plagued Togo by two clear goals, the surprise 2002 semifinalists will go out. But a win will see them top the group such are the muddling permutations.

South Korea, who humbled European powerhouses Portugal, Italy and Spain during their glory run four years ago, could still qualify in second place if they draw with Switzerland, but the players are refusing to dream that Togo can achieve a result against the fading, but still flair-filled French.

Other final-day scenarios could result in the drawing of lots to determine whether France or South Korea progress to the second round, but neither side want to rely on lady luck for their World Cup survival.

The first ever encounter between the two countries may develop into a battle of wits between South Korea's coach Dick Advocaat and his opposite number Kobi Kuhn, who have been hailed as tactical genuises for their match-altering substitutions.

Surging Spain still will go all-out vs Saudi Arabia

2006-06-22T17:13:00.000-07:00

Spain are already through to the next round of the World Cup, but may want to secure their top spot with a good result against Saudi Arabia, who have a small chance to qualify themselves.

The Saudis will need a win over the Spanish, and then depend on the match between Ukraine and Tunisia. Captain Sami Al Jaber, who came on as a substitute in the previous two games, may now form part of the starting line-up for what is likely to be his last international match.

Spain coach Luis Aragonés is expected to make several changes in order to rest his star players ahead of their round of sixteen match. The team's top scorer Fernando Torres will stay on the bench, as well as goalkeeper Iker Casillas and several defenders including Carles Puyol.

Saudi Arabia reached the second round once, back in 1994. The finished second in the group thanks to a win over the Belgians. After a famous solo, Al Owairan scored the only goal of that match. In 2002, Spain's position after two matches was similar to their current situation, after wins over Paraguay and South Africa. They would also win the third match against Slovenia.

Probable line-ups:

Saudi Arabia: Al Deayea, Dokhi, Sulaimani, Al Montashari, Tuker, Al Khariri, Al Ghamdi, Noor, Al Jaber, Al Thaker, Al Qahtani.

Spain: Canizares, Salgado, Juanito, Marchena, Lopez, Albelda, Iniesta, Fabregas, Joaquin, Reyes, Raul.

Tunisia eye important World Cup win vs Ukraine

2006-06-22T17:03:00.000-07:00

Ukraine, boosted by the overwhelming victory over Saudi Arabia, eye a decisive win over Tunisia on Friday in a bid to qualify for the knockout stage. The World Cup debutants recovered from a 0-4 loss to Spain to rout Saudi Arabia 4-0 in their Group H second game.

Their leading scorers Andriy Shevchenko and Serhiy Rebrov, the former famed attack duo of Dynamo Kiev, once again showed their killer instincts before the slow-paced defense of the Arab team.

Besides the dual format, the Ukraine squad also boast very good defensive midfielders and defenders. Oleg Blokhin was confident of his proteges' performance in the match and expressed his optimism at the match against Tunisia, the champions at the 2004 African Cup.

After a dramatic win-then-lose match against Spain, Tunisia ended up with only one point gained from Saudi Arabia. Now the north Africans have no choice but win their last game in the Group, for their possible qualification for the knockout phase.

Roger Lemerre, the only coach to win both European and African Championships, had cherished the hope to lead Tunisia into the round of 16. Hopes still are alive, as the rising Tunisia have a competitive team.

Brazilian-born duo Jose Clayton and Santos helped them achieve six wins and three draws in qualification, and the skipper Riadh Bouazizi has won more than 50 caps and is a tough tackler in the heart of midfield.

FIFA World Cup Betting: Matchday 13 Tips and Picks

2006-06-22T03:37:00.000-07:00

USA vs Ghana:

USA to nip Ghana, 1-0

Italy vs Czech Republic

BET on Italy to win, 2-1.

Brazil vs Japan:

This game to end in a 1-1 DRAW.

PLACE YOUR BETS HERE!!! (click image below)

Seven teams battle for three remaining World Cup R of 16 spots

2006-06-22T02:31:00.000-07:00

There will be suspense aplenty as the curtain falls on Group E today, with Czech Republic, Italy, Ghana and the USA all still hopeful of qualifying. Group F is a little less open after Brazil sealed their passage last time out, but the Seleçao’s next opponents Japan have their sights set on the second available berth, as do group rivals Croatia and Australia.

Czech Republic - Italy, 16:00 (CET), Hamburg, Group E. Italy need just a draw to book their place in the Round of 16, but the Czechs will be out to take all three points and make sure of their own continued participation. Karel Bruckner's men must again make do with a decimated attack, but there is very little chance of them sitting back, as a point would leave their fate dependent on the Ghana-USA result.

BET on Czech Republic vs Italy HERE!

Ghana - USA, 16:00, Nuremberg, Group E. Having registered a fine victory over the Czech Republic, Ghana can now seal what would be an historic spot in the knock-out stage. A win over the USA would take them through regardless of other results, and even a stalemate would suffice if Italy overcame the Czechs. As for the Stars and Stripes, while they may not be masters of their own destiny, they have an outside chance of grabbing second place if they secure maximum points.

BET on Ghana vs USA HERE!

Japan - Brazil, 21:00, Dortmund, Group F. Japan's hopes appear slim as they line up to face the world champions, but a victory by three goals combined with either a draw or a Croatian win in the other game would nonetheless see them qualify. For the Brazilians, this will be an opportunity to build on previous performances and rotate the squad.

BET on Japan vs Brazil HERE!

Croatia - Australia, 21:00, Stuttgart, Group F. Should Japan fail to see off Brazil by three clear goals, Guus Hiddink's Australia would need just a single point against Croatia to keep their campaign alive. The Balkan side will also be praying Japan fall short, but can afford nothing less than a win of their own to keep their side of the bargain. With everything so tight, goal difference could prove to be the deciding factor... so calculators at the ready!

BET on Croatia vs Australia HERE!

Live World Cup Betting Odds from Wagerweb

2006-06-21T19:38:00.000-07:00

Latest World Cup Odds and Lines

2006-06-21T19:22:00.000-07:00

USA vs Ghana:

USA (+200) vs Ghana (+110) DRAW (+250)

Italy vs Czech Republic:

Italy (+100) vs Czech Republic (+275) DRAW (+210)

Brazil vs Japan:

Brazil (-425) vs Japan (+1000) DRAW (+425)

Croatia vs Australia:

Croatia (+120) vs Australia (+200) DRAW (+210)

USA play biggest World Cup match vs Ghana

2006-06-21T19:05:00.000-07:00

Who would have thought it was going to come down to USA vs Ghana?

This World Cup's surprise African team crushed high ranked Czech Republic this past weekend and may provide the USA with its stiffest competition to date. Ghana was a huge underdog to win Group E let alone the World Cup itself.

Ghana's shocking 2-0 win over Czech Republic in the day's earlier game turned Group E on its head. Italy now has four points and can qualify with a draw against Czech Republic. If Italy and the U.S., which has one point, win their final matches on Thursday then both will qualify for the second round.

"USA vs. Ghana looks to be a great matchup," commented Christopher Costigan, President of Sports911.com. "The Ghana upset of Czech Republic was by far the biggest in this World Cup. Ghana enters Thursday's match with odds of 2.37 and USA 2.62, which means that for every US$100 bet on either team, the payout would be just over US$200."

Meanwhile, there is value in Ghana winning Group E with odds that payout approximately US$450 for every US$100 bet. Ghana has approximately 64 to 1 odds of winning the 2006 World Cup. USA has odds of 201 to 1 to win the 2006 Word Cup, which is nearly three times the odds of Ghana. Italy was still listed with odds of 11 to 1 at press time. They had the 6th best odds of winning at Nine.com Sportsbook.

Live World Cup Odds: USA vs GHANA!!!

Italy, Czech Republic seek crucial World Cup victory

2006-06-21T19:00:00.000-07:00

Italy and the Czech Republic both look to escape the "Group of Death," but only one club might advance to the round of 16 when they face each other on Thursday in Hamburg, Germany.

Italy tops Group E with four points, while the Czechs and Ghana each have three followed by the United States with one. Ghana and the U.S. meet in Nuremberg on Thursday at the same time the Italians and Czechs square off with the top two teams advancing from the group.

The "Azzurri" can win the group with a victory, and a tie guarantees at least a second-place finish. The Italians would be eliminated with a loss and a win by Ghana.

The Czechs will advance with a win, which could also give them the group. They can still qualify for the second round with a tie combined with goal differential from Ghana's match.

Italy is plus-2 on goal differential, the Czechs are plus-1, Ghana is even and the U.S. is minus-3. Goal differential is the first tiebreaker before moving to goals scored, head-to-head results and finally a random draw.

The Czech Republic hopes to avoid the tiebreakers and defeat Italy for the first time in tournament play since a 2-1 victory in the 1996 European Championship in England - the only neutral ground meeting between the teams. It lost both World Cup meetings in Rome as Czechoslovakia in 1990 and in the 1934 final.

Zico faces former team as Japan face Brazil In World Cup Group F

2006-06-21T18:53:00.000-07:00

With a second-round berth secured, Brazil could rest some of its starters for its last Group F match on Thursday (3 p.m. ET), giving Japan extra hope in its quest to stay alive at the World Cup.

The teams enter the match in Dortmund with very distinct goals. Brazil is looking to improve from lacklustre performances against Croatia and Australia. Japan needs to defeat the defending champions - and hope Australia fails to beat Croatia - to advance.

If he starts, Cafu will set a Brazilian record with his 19th World Cup appearance. He is currently even with Dunga and Claudio Taffarel with 18 matches. With 14 victories, Cafu already has won more World Cup matches than any other Brazilian, and has played a record 148 games for his country. He has lost only 19 times.

Japan, coached by former Brazilian all-star Zico, will need to beat Brazil no matter who's on the field on Thursday. A draw will automatically send the Japanese back home.Besides beating the five-time champions, Japan needs Australia to fail against Croatia in the other Group F match on Thursday. Japan lost 3-1 to Australia in its opener, then drew Croatia 0-0.

Zico, a standout on the Brazilian World Cup teams of 1978, '82 and '86, will become the 13th coach in World Cup history to face his own country. Brazil is unbeaten against Japan in seven matches. It has five wins and two draws, including 2-2 in the Confederations Cup in Germany last year.

World Cup News: Australia, Croatia face off in crucial World Cup match

2006-06-21T18:48:00.000-07:00

Croatia and Australia face off in an emotionally charged match Thursday that is likely to decide which team will advance to the second round of the World Cup.

Croatia, a semifinalist in 1998, wants to erase a disappointing performance four years ago, when it was eliminated in the first round. Australia had to wait 32 years between its two World Cup campaigns. The Socceroos are determined to prolong their stay this time under the guidance of Dutchman Guus Hiddink.

Barring an a highly unlikely lopsided win for Japan over Brazil, Australia only needs a draw to make the next stage. Croatia needs a win to advance. Loyalties as well as limbs are expected to collide in the match.

Australia has seven players of Croatian heritage in the squad. Croatia, which has one of the most vaunted defences in the game, has three players who grew up in Australia.

For Australia, it is a chance to lift the profile of a sport that has long been dominated by rugby, Australian rules football and cricket. Prime Minister John Howard praised the Socceroos, saying the country was proud and fully behind its team.

One of the millions who stayed up to watch the team's games broadcast live from Germany, Howard also urged employers to be lenient on workers who turn up late or bleary-eyed to their jobs.

Argentina face Netherlands once more; Portugal out to slay Mexico

2006-06-21T05:32:00.000-07:00

In Group C, the Argentines and Dutch will dispute sectional supremacy, while Côte d'Ivoire and Serbia and Montenegro will both want to go out with their heads held high. In Group D, the second qualifying spot is still very much up for grabs. Mexico are better placed than Angola but face a tricky clash with Portugal, while the Africans need to take all three points from the already eliminated Iranians to stand any chance of progressing.

Portugal – Mexico, 16:00, Gelsenkirchen, Group D. Already safely through to the last sixteen, Portugal need only a draw to take top spot in the group. Such an outcome would also suit the Tricolores as they would then finish second, but due to their fierce national pride, Ricardo Lavolpe’s men are not the sort to set their stall out for a single point. In any case, if such a plan were to backfire and end in defeat, they risk being overtaken by the West Africans.

BET on Portugal vs Mexico HERE!

Iran - Angola, 16:00, Leipzig, Group D. This farewell match for the Iranians still offers a ray of hope for Angola. Having held out for a creditable draw against Mexico, the Palancas Negras need to win this game by the best possible margin and hope that Mexico are beaten by Portugal.

BET on Iran vs Angola HERE!

Netherlands - Argentina, 21:00, Frankfurt, Group C. In this blue riband encounter between two of the most impressive teams so far at this FIFA World Cup, the advantage is on the side of the Albiceleste given their vastly superior goal difference (+7 compared with +2). Consequently, the Oranje need to win to claim the first place that would earn them a second-round tie with the 2nd-placed side from Group D, whereas a draw would be enough to secure Jose Pekerman’s men the same reward.

BET on Netherlands vs Argentina HERE!

Côte d'Ivoire – Serbia and Montenegro, 21:00, Hanover, Group C. Both these teams have already been eliminated, but under vastly different circumstances. The Elephants showed great ability but fell victim to their own lack of experience at the highest level. The Serbs and Montenegrins, in contrast, have been extremely disappointing and were truly exposed in their 6-0 humbling by the Argentines. Neither team should therefore be short on motivation to prove their early FIFA World Cup exit is merely a blip.

BET on Ivory Coast vs Serbia and Montenegro HERE!

FIFA World Cup Betting: Matchday 12 Tips and Picks

2006-06-20T20:20:00.000-07:00

Netherlands vs Argentina:

Netherlands to nip Argentina, 2-1

Portugal vs Mexico

BET on a 2-2 DRAW.

Angola vs Iran:

This game to end in a 1-1 DRAW.

PLACE YOUR BETS HERE!!! (click image below)

Argentina vs Netherlands Live World Cup Fixed Betting Odds

2006-06-20T08:31:00.000-07:00

Netherlands meet Argentina in their final World Cup Group C match on Wednesday. With both sides through to the second round, the only thing at stake is first place in Group C. Argentina could make several changes, with Gabriel Heinze, Hernan Crespo and Javier Saviola, who are all on yellow cards, likely to be rested.

Where: Waldstadion, Frankfurt

World Cup Capacity: 48,000

When: Wednesday June 21, 2100 local (1900 GMT)

Referee: TBA

Teams: Likely formation; shirt numbers, name, caps and goals, coach:

Argentina (4-4-2): 1-Roberto Abbondanzieri (24-0); 21-Nicolas Burdisso (10-0); 2-Roberto Ayala (102-6), 15-Gabriel Milito (15-0), 3-Juan Pablo Sorin (73-11); 18-Maxi Rodriguez (15-5), 8-Javier Mascherano (17-0), 5-Esteban Cambiasso (24-2), 10-Juan Roman Riquelme (33-8); 11-Carlos Tevez (22-4), 20-Julio Cruz (15-3)

Coach: Jose Pekerman

Netherlands (4-3-3): 1-Edwin van der Sar (111-0); 12-Jan Kromkamp (11-0), 13-Andre Ooijer (21-2), 2-Kew Jaliens (1-0), 15-Tim de Cler (3-0); 6-Denny Landzaat (25-1), 20-Wesley Sneijder (25-5), 8-Philip Cocu (99-10); 7-Dirk Kuijt (20-4), 9-Ruud van Nistelrooy (53-28), 17-Robin van Persie (12-2)

Coach: Marco van Basten

Latest World Cup Game Odds: Netherlands +275 vs Argentina +110 DRAW +220

Mexico vs Portugal: World Cup Betting Comparison

2006-06-20T08:02:00.000-07:00

Portugal meet Mexico in their third match in World Cup Group D on Wednesday. Mexico coach La Volpe is expected to keep faith with the same team that were held to a goalless draw by Angola. The Mexicans need a draw against group leaders Portugal to be certain of reaching the second phase.

Where: Arena AufSchalke, Gelsenkirchen

World Cup capacity: 52,000

When: Wednesday June 21, 1600 local (1400 GMT)

Referee and linesmen: to be announced

Likely formation; shirt numbers; name, caps, goals, coach:

Portugal (4-2-3-1):

1-Ricardo (51-0); 13-Miguel (30-1), 16-Ricardo Carvalho (26-1), 5-Fernando Meira (32-2), 14-Nuno Valente (25-1); 8-Armando Petit (38-4), Maniche (33-4); 17-Cristiano Ronaldo (34-12), 7-Luis Figo (122-32), 11-Simao Sabrosa (44-9); 21-Nuno Gomes (53-23)

Coach: Luiz Felipe Scolari

Mexico (5-3-2):

1-Oswaldo Sanchez (72-0); 16-Mario Mendez (34-0), 4-Rafael Marquez (67-7), 5-Ricardo Osorio (41-1), 3-Carlos Salcido (34-2), 14-Gonzalo Pineda (32-1); 6-Gerardo Torrado (58-2) 7-Antonio Naelson "Zinha" (34-5), 8-Pavel Pardo (127-5); 10-Guillermo Franco (9-2), 19-Omar Bravo (35-9)

Coach: Ricardo La Volpe

Latest World Cup Game Odds: Portugal +130 vs Mexico +365 DRAW +180

World Cup Game Preview: Argentina, Netherlands clash in FIFA World Cup

2006-06-20T05:06:00.000-07:00

Two distinct and distinguished schools of football meet at the World Cup when Argentina face Netherlands in their final Group C match in Frankfurt on Wednesday.

It promises to be a game of high quality although the sting has been taken out of the contest because the sides are already through to the second round with maximum points.

World Cup matches between the two countries have been rich in skill and drama, not least when a brilliant Dennis Bergkamp goal gave the Dutch a 2-1 win in the 1998 quarter-finals in Marseille and sent Daniel Passarella's Argentina packing.

Twenty years earlier, captain Passarella lifted the trophy in Buenos Aires when Argentina beat Netherlands 3-1 after extra time in the final, the only time the Dutch have lost to the South Americans.

The last time the sides met in Germany, in the 1974 tournament, an ill-prepared Argentina were hammered 4-0 by a Dutch side inspired by coach Rinus Michels and skipper Johan Cruyff. That match was played in Gelsenkirchen, where Argentina set a benchmark for this tournament with a 6-0 rout of Serbia & Montenegro that kept them top of the group on goal difference.

An extra bonus for winning the group and playing the earlier second-round match is the longer break before the quarter-finals if they are still in the competition.

Probable teams:

Netherlands (4-3-3): 1-Edwin van der Sar; 12-Jan Kromkamp, 13-Andre Ooijer, 2-Kew Jaliens, 15-Tim de Cler; 6-Denny Landzaat, 20-Wesley Sneijder, 8-Philip Cocu; 7-Dirk Kuijt, 9-Ruud van Nistelrooy, 17-Robin van Persie

Argentina (4-4-2): 1-Roberto Abbondanzieri; 21-Nicolas Burdisso, 2-Roberto Ayala, 15-Gabriel Milito, 3-Juan Pablo Sorin; 18-Maxi Rodriguez, 4-Fabricio Coloccini, 5-Esteban Cambiasso, 16-Pablo Aimar; 11-Carlos Tevez, 20-Julio Ricardo Cruz

World Cup Game Outlook: Mexico aim to reverse World Cup failure vs Portugal

2006-06-20T05:00:00.000-07:00

Mexico are aiming to reverse a dreadful record against European opponents by beating Portugal to top Group D in their final first round match tomorrow. Mexico need only a draw to make sure of the knock-out round but are keen to avoid a match-up with free-scoring Argentina, favourites to win the parallel Group C.

However, history is not in Mexico's favour with just one win in their past 10 World Cup matches against European teams. In four of their five forays past the first round, their campaign floundered against teams from the continent.

They will also be playing without all-time leading scorer Jared Borgetti, who picked up an injury in the 3-1 win against Iran and will not return until the knock-out stages.

With Portugal already qualified, Mexico can still be beaten into second place if they lose tomorrow and Angola beat Iran by three goals. Elimination would be a cruel blow for Mexico, who topped the group after the opening games.

Mexico will also be boosted by signs that Portugal will take a more relaxed approach to the match. But Portugal remain strong favourites for the match after an unbeaten run in competitive matches that stretches back to February 2005.

Right-back Miguel, a rising star under Scolari, said the Brazilian coach had worked to stamp out the fragility that saw them flop in 1986 and 2002. Under Scolari, Portugal reached the Euro 2004 final and wins against Angola and Iran have put them through to the knock-out stages for the first time since 1966.

The last time Portugal qualified from the group stage was in 1966, when thanks to Eusebio's nine goals they reached the semi-finals before being beaten by eventual champions England.

They flopped in a relatively easy group in 1986 and were surprisingly sent packing in 2002 after defeats to the United States and South Korea.

Germany, England, Sweden eye better positions: World Cup top spots at stake

2006-06-20T02:31:00.000-07:00

The action is really hotting up at the 2006 FIFA World Cup, as the group stages draw to a nail-baiting conclusion. In Group A, Ecuador meet Germany to decide top spot, while the Costa Rica-Poland clash will determine who will take the bottom spot. In Group B, the outcome of the Sweden-England and Paraguay-Trinidad and Tobago encounters will reveal who accompanies Sven-Goran Eriksson’s men into the second round.

Ecuador - Germany, 16:00 (CET), Berlin, Group A. These two teams are already safely through to the last sixteen, but first place in Group A is still up for grabs. The Ecuadorians’ superior goal difference (+5 compared with +3) means that only a win will take the host nation above their South American opponents.

BET on Ecuador vs Germany Here:

Costa Rica - Poland, 16:00, Hanover, Group A. With only pride at stake, the Ticos take on the Bialo-czerwoni to avoid finishing bottom of the group. Both sides acquitted themselves well in defeat by the Mannschaft but were outclassed by the Andean side. Having drawn a blank in front of goal so far, the Poles will be keen to get off the mark against Alexandre Guimaraes’ men before making the short trip home.

Bet on Costa Rica vs Poland Here:

Sweden - England, 21:00, Cologne, Group B. A draw would suit both sides nicely, as England would then finish top of the group and Sweden’s place in the second round would be secure. Were they to lose, Lars Lagerback’s charges could still be overtaken by the Soca Warriors of Trinidad and Tobago.

Bet on Sweden vs England Here:

Paraguay - Trinidad and Tobago, 21:00, Kaiserslautern, Group B. After a disappointing tournament, Paraguay will be hoping to sign off in style against Trinidad and Tobago. But the Caribbean islanders have been one of the event’s big surprises and need the three points to have any chance of reaching the last sixteen. However, if either side is to win they will have to score, something neither has managed so far.

BET on Paraguay vs T and T Here:

FIFA World Cup Betting: Matchday 11 Tips and Picks

2006-06-20T02:27:00.000-07:00

England vs Sweden:

England to nip Sweden, 2-1

Germany vs Ecuador

BET on Germany to win, 2-1.

Paraguay vs Trinidad and Tobago:

This game to end in a 1-1 DRAW.

PLACE YOUR BETS HERE!!! (click image below)

World Cup Preview: England seek first ever win vs Sweden in 38 years

2006-06-20T02:24:00.000-07:00

Sweden and England scare off in another chapter of their history as Sweden look to advance to the next round, while England mark the return of Wayne Rooney to the starting line-up.

The Manchester United striker has been passed fit to go from the start, and England will win the group and face the Group A runner-up with a point in the match that will also see Gary Neville miss again with the same calf woe.

Sven-Göran will be resting Steven Gerrard and Peter Crouch to prevent a second booking, but the already-booked Frank Lampard is set to start. Sweden will have a full line-up to pick from with one exception as striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic will miss out with a groin injury, Marcus Allbäck set to deputize.

Head to head:

In total (meaning official and unofficial games), these two nations have met a total of 23 times with Sweden not losing to the Three Lions since 1968. They also met in the group stage of the 2002 World Cup and played to a 1-1 draw.

Probable line-ups:

Sweden: Isaksson, Mellberg, Lucic, Edman, Linderoth, Alexandersson, Ljungberg, Wilhelmsson, Källström, Allbäck, Larsson.

England: Robinson, Carragher, Ferdinand, Terry, A. Cole, Beckham, Lampard, Hargreaves, J. Cole, Owen, Rooney.

First place up for grabs in Germany vs Ecuador

2006-06-20T02:19:00.000-07:00

Ecuador and Germany are already through to the next round, but face each other in their third group match to decide who is to take the top spot in Group A. Against all expectations, Ecuador lead after two games and a draw would be enough for them to win this group.

The South Americans will probably rest the slightly injured Carlos Tenorio, and Ivan Kaviedes is expected to start in his place. Germany boss Jürgen Klinsmann has two injuries to worry about. Torsten Frings is struggling with a calf injury and Christoph Metzelder has knee problems.

Ecuador are one of the major revelations of the tournament so far. In their only previous World Cup appearance, in 2002, they won one match but lost two, and finished fourth in a group with Mexico, Italy and Croatia.

Four years ago, Germany's position was not as comfortable as it is now. The three-times World Champions needed at least a draw with Cameroon to advance and second-half goals from Bode and Klose took the team to the round of sixteen.

Head to head:

These two teams have never met each other before.

Probable line-ups:

Ecuador: Cristian Mora, Ulises de la Cruz, Ivan Hurtado, Giovanny Espinoza, Neicer Reasco, Edison Mendez, Edwin Tenorio, Segundo Castillo, Luis Antonio Valencia Agustin Delgado, Ivan Kaviedes.

Germany: Jens Lehmann, Arne Friedrich, Christoph Metzelder, Per Mertesacker, Philipp Lahm, Bernd Schneider,Tim Borowski, Michael Ballack, Bastian Schweinsteiger, Lukas Podolski, Miroslav Klose.

Poland vs Ecuador World Cup Betting Tips

2006-06-20T02:11:00.000-07:00

With both teams already eliminated from the tournament, Costa Rica and Poland will meet on Tuesday in Hannover with pure pride at stake. Costa Rica lost 4-2 to Germany and 3-0 to Ecuador and it is likely that Costa Rica will field the same team that played Ecuador.

The only absence is Gilberto Martínez, who was lost for the tournament against Germany. Poland will take a different approach and field several different players from their previous losses, a 2-0 defeat to Ecuador and the late 1-0 loss to Germany. Players like Grzegorz Rasiak, Ireneusz Jelen and Pawel Brozek could see the pitch in this one.

Head to head:

The nations have met three times (one unofficial) with Poland winning all three times. They have not played, though, in 16 years.

Probable line-ups:

Costa Rica: Porras, Marin, Umana, Wallace, Gonzalez, Solis, Centeno, Sequeira, Fonseca, Gomez, Wanchope

Poland: Kuszczak, Baszczynski, Bak, Bosacki, Zewlakow, Krzynowek, Radomski, Szymkowiak, Jelen, Smolarek, Rasiak

World cup Betting Preview: Paraguay vs Trinidad & Tobago Fixed Odds

2006-06-20T02:03:00.000-07:00

For Paraguay, the last group match is an opportunity to battle for pride but Trinidad & Tobago have others things to worry about as they could still advance to the next round.

Facts:

After losing to England and Sweden, Paraguay have no chance of advancing to the next round. The clash with Trinidad will also be the last for the 35 year old Carlos Gamarra, who is set to play his 110th game for the South Americans.

Trinidad & Tobago need to win this match, and hope for England to beat Sweden. In addition, they have to improve their goal record. At the moment, T&T are at -2 while Sweden have +1. There will be some changes in both line-ups. Carlos Bonet is out injured and is likely to be replaced with Julio Dos Santos.

Trinidad defender Avery John returns from his suspension, caused by a red card against Sweden. Goalkeeper Kelvin Jack is back from an injury suffered just before the match with Sweden, but Shaka Hislop's good performances may have earned him a steady place in the line-up.

Head to head:

These two teams faced each other twice in 1989, and drew in both occasions.

Probable line-ups:

Paraguay: Aldo Bobadilla, Denis Caniza, Julio Cesar Caceres, Carlos Gamarra, Delio Toledo, Julio Dos Santos, Roberto Acuna, Carlos Paredes, Cristian Riveros, Roque Santa Cruz, Nelson Haedo Valdez.

Trinidad and Tobago: Shaka Hislop, Dennis Lawrence, Brent Sancho, Carlos Edwards, Avery John, Aurtis Whitley, Chris Birchall, Densill Theobald, Kenwyne Jones, Stern John, Dwight York.

FIFA World Cup Betting: Matchday 10 Tips and Picks

2006-06-18T22:36:00.000-07:00

Spain vs Tunisia:

Spain to destroy the Tunisians, 4-1

Ukraine vs Saudi Arabia

BET on Ukraine to win, 2-1.

Switzerland vs Togo:

Switzerland to win 1-0.

PLACE YOUR BETS HERE!!! (click image below)

World Cup Betting Preview: Spain look to continue surge vs Tunisia

2006-06-18T06:05:00.000-07:00

Tunisia will have to improve their concentration and play more as a team if they are to cause an upset when they take on Group H leaders Spain, their players and coach said on Saturday.

The north African side dominated the early stages of their opening World Cup game against Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, taking the lead after 23 minutes but they faded as the game went on and only avoided defeat with an injury-time goal to draw 2-2.

Spain play Tunisia on Monday in Stuttgart.

"We have to try to concentrate more and we have to repair the mistakes that we made," defender Radhi Jaidi, who won his 90th cap in the Saudi match, told a press conference on Saturday. "We are going to play against a very big team who are technically good. We will play our best and maybe there could be a surprise, God willing."

Spain are top of the group after thrashing a much fancied Ukraine side 4-0 and Tunisia coach Roger Lemerre said he expected the game to be a clash of styles. Tunisia are still looking for their second World Cup victory after beating Mexico 3-1 in their debut match in 1978. They have since competed in two other World Cups, in France 1998 and South Korea and Japan in 2002.

Tunisia will face Ukraine on June 23 in Berlin.

Ukraine seek to discover winning form vs Saudi Arabia

2006-06-18T06:00:00.000-07:00

Even after a four-goal loss, Ukraine finds itself just a victory from being in contention as it meets Saudi Arabia in World Cup play. Ukraine, if a comeback is in the cards, needs to start it Monday against Saudi Arabia in Hamburg, Germany. Spain meets Tunisia in the other Group H game. Group play is scheduled to end Friday.

Ukraine suffered mightily in its first World Cup game, with Spain even hotter than the temperature as Spain beat Ukraine 4-0. "I'm extremely disappointed," Ukraine Coach Oleg Blokhin said. "We weren't disciplined at all and the players failed to follow the instructions the coaching team gave them.

"I'm not so much disappointed about the result as the attitude of the players. It's embarrassing for all of us and I want to apologize to the Ukraine fans for the performance we put in. We can't play like that again. We just crumbled."

Actually things aren't so bad for Ukraine. It is three points behind Spain, but only one behind the other two Group H teams. A victory returns hope to Ukraine's fans in a hurry. Saudi Arabia, on the other hand, let two points get away by giving up a goal in injury time.

Saudi's Sami al-Jaber said, "Obviously, it's not the result we were looking for, but that's football. There were only two minutes to go, but we just couldn't hold onto the lead."

World Cup Preview: Togo vs Switzerland Fixed Betting Odds

2006-06-18T05:51:00.000-07:00

Togo meet Switzerland in their second match of World Cup Group G on Monday. Switzerland have only played nine matches against African opposition. They drew 1-1 with Ivory Coast last month in a friendly match arranged to prepare for the Togo game.

Togo are the only team at the World Cup, other than the hosts, with a German coach. Togo officials say a pay dispute among the squad has been resolved but refuse to give details. The players say they will take the field even if they do not get their money. Coach Otto Pfister, who quit last week over the pay row before returning for the first game, should be in charge for the West Africans.

Swiss coach Koebi Kuhn is likely to stick with the lineup that started against France, giving striker Marco Streller a second chance after a lacklustre performance in the 0-0 draw. Kuhn will be hoping his midfield create a lot more chances against Togo than they did against France.

Togo's Ludovic Assemoassa tore ligaments in his right knee in the first match against South Korea and will miss the rest of the tournament. Swiss right back Valon Behrami is set to miss out on Monday and possibly the rest of the finals after failing to recover from a groin injury.

Live World Cup Odds and Lines

2006-06-17T20:58:00.000-07:00

FIFA World Cup Betting: Matchday 9 Tips and Picks

2006-06-17T20:34:00.000-07:00

Brazil vs Australia:

Pick the Brazilians to win, 3-1.

France vs South Korea:

BET on France to win, 2-1.

Japan vs Croatia:

Croatia to win 1-0.

PLACE YOUR BETS HERE!!! (click image below)

Brazil vs Australia World Cup Betting Preview

2006-06-17T06:46:00.000-07:00

Brazil meet Australia in their second match of World Cup Group F on Sunday. Brazil are unbeaten for 11 internationals and have not conceded a goal for five. Their last defeat was against Mexico at last year's Confederations Cup.

Australia have been on a high since their dramatic qualifying victory over Uruguay last year that propelled them into the World Cup finals for the first time in 32 years. They beat European champions Greece and Liechtenstein in warm-ups then held Netherlands to a draw before a stunning come-from-behind victory over Japan in their World Cup opener. Trailing 1-0 after a disputed first-half goal, the Socceroos scored three times in the last eight minutes with Tim Cahill scoring twice and John Aloisi once.

Brazil are the only country to have played at all 18 World Cup tournaments and are defending the title they won in Japan and South Korea four years ago. Their last defeat at the World Cup was a 3-0 loss against France in the 1998 final.

Brazil (4-4-2)

1-Dida (87-0); 2-Cafu (146-0), 3-Lucio (51-2), 4-Juan (39-2), 6-Roberto Carlos (128-10); 5-Emerson (73-1), 11-Ze Roberto (80-5), 8-Kaka (35-10), 10-Ronaldinho (67-30); 9-Ronaldo (99-62), 7-Adriano (35-22)

Coach: Carlos Alberto Parreira

Australia (4-5-1):

1-Mark Schwarzer (38-0); 7-Brett Emerton (49-11), 2-Lucas Neill (26-0), 6-Tony Popovic (56-7), 14-Scott Chipperfield (47-11); 8-Josip Skoko (46-9), 5-Jason Culina (14-1), 20-Luke Wilkshire (10-0), 23-Marco Bresciano (25-7), 10-Harry Kewell (21-6); 9-Mark Viduka (34-6)

Coach: Guus Hiddink

World Cup Betting Preview: France vs South Korea Game Odds

2006-06-17T06:34:00.000-07:00

World Cup 98 winners France must end a worrying goal drought on Sunday against Asian football powerhouse South Korea or face the prospect of another early exit at the World Cup.

After a lacklustre 0-0 draw with Switzerland in their Group G opener, France have not won a match or even scored a goal in the World Cup finals since beating Brazil to lift the trophy eight years ago. The French were sent packing in 2002 after failing to win or score a goal in the group stage and are now closing in on Bolivia's unwanted record of five finals games without a goal.

Coach Raymond Domenech's ageing team looked sluggish against the Swiss and will have to step up a gear against the speedy and super-fit South Koreans. The surprise 2002 semi-finalists fought back from a goal down to beat Togo 2-1 in their opening match and are bullish about their chances against Les Bleus.

On paper, France have more talent but could struggle against the lively Koreans, who are fitter now than they were four years ago when they beat Portugal, Italy and Spain on the way to the last four.

Probable teams:

France (4-3-1-2)

16-Fabien Barthez; 19-Willy Sagnol, 15-Lilian Thuram, 5-William Gallas, 3-Eric Abidal; 4-Patrick Vieira, 6-Claude Makelele, 7-Florent Malouda; 10-Zinedine Zidane; 14-Louis Saha, 12-Thierry Henry.

South Korea (4-3-3)

1-Lee Woon-jae; 22-Song Chong-gug, 4-Choi jin-cheul, 6-Kim Jin-kyu, 12-Lee Young-pyo; 7-Park Ji-sung, 17-Lee Ho, 13-Lee Eul-yong; 14-Lee Chun-soo, 9-Ahn Jung-hwan, 11-Seol Ki-hyeon.

World Cup Preview: Japan vs Croatia Fixed Betting Odds

2006-06-17T06:25:00.000-07:00

Both Japan and Croatia suffered defeats in their first outings at Germany 2006. Now the hopes of two nations rest on victory in Nuremberg on Sunday. Anything less, and their prospects for the Round of 16 will look bleak at best.

Japan took the lead against Australia in the 26th minute of their Group F opener and held the advantage for nearly an hour. Then, in a dramatic change of fortune, the Oceania champions hit back with three goals in the last eight minutes to seal an unlikely victory. Croatia, meanwhile, took the game to reigning world champions Brazil in their first match, before ending up on the wrong side of a 1-0 scoreline.

Japan and Croatia met at the group stage in France 98. On that occasion Japan pressed hard but Croatia came away with a 1-0 victory thanks to a second-half strike by Davor Suker. In an international friendly on 8 June 1997, Japan emerged 4-3 winners in a dramatic battle of changing fortunes.

Alessandro Santos v Darijo Srna. Both teams make heavy use of the wings, and both have a highly attacking player with the stamina to keep moving along the flank from start to finish: for Japan, left wing-back Alessandro 'Alex' Santos and on the right side for Croatia, Darijo Srna. The question of which wide man spends more time on the attack - forcing his counterpart back to attend to defensive duties - could have a bearing on which team takes control.

USA, Ghana and Iran try to keep World Cup hopes alive

2006-06-17T01:59:00.000-07:00

Beaten during the opening round of games in Group E, the USA and Ghana now find themselves with their backs to the wall and in need of wins to keep their fading hopes alive. However, with Italy and Czech Republic providing the opposition, the task awaiting them could scarcely be tougher. Elsewhere, Portugal can seal qualification from Group D with victory over Iran.

Portugal - Iran, 15:00 (CET), Frankfurt, Group D. Portugal got their campaign underway with a laboured win over Angola that hardly set the world alight. The fans are now hoping for a more convincing performance, but will surely settle for a victory that could secure their place in the Round of 16. Nobody ought to expect any favours from Iran, however, who need to cause a real upset to avoid an early exit. Losers in their opening match, Branko Ivankovic's men will nonetheless draw confidence from having tested Mexico for a solid hour.

BET on Portugal vs Iran HERE!

Czech Republic - Ghana, 18:00, Cologne, Group E. Despite succumbing to Italy, Ghana showed everyone they are a force to contend with. Their task looks complicated against the Czech side that took apart the USA, but injuries to Milan Baros and Jan Koller will give the Africans cause to hope. As for Karel Bruekner's side, a win combined with a victory or a draw for the Italians in the other Group E clash would send them through.

BET on Czech Republic vs Ghana HERE!

Italy - USA, 21:00, Kaiserslautern, Group E. Having seen off Ghana in their last encounter, Italy do not need to go for broke in tomorrow’s game, in contrast to Bruce Arena's USA, who have little alternative after being played off the park by the Czech Republic. A win or a draw for the Czechs in the other game would seal a Round of 16 berth for Marcello Lippi's men if they win.

BET on USA vs Italy HERE!

Live World Cup Odds and Lines:

FIFA World Cup Betting: Matchday 8 Tips and Picks

2006-06-17T01:48:00.000-07:00

USA vs Italy:

Pick the Americans to win, 2-1.

Czech Republic vs Ghana:

BET on a 2-2 DRAW.

Portugal vs Iran:

Portugal to win 2-0.

PLACE YOUR BETS HERE!!! (click image below)

World Cup Prediction: USA vs Italy Betting Preview

2006-06-17T01:46:00.000-07:00

The USA will be looking to rebound in a big on Saturday as they take on Italy in a must-win game in Kaiserslautern. The Americans, thrashed 3-0

by the Czech Republic on Monday, need to win to have a chance to advance and will be eliminated with a loss and a point earned by the Czechs against Ghana.

Defender Eddie Pope is fit for the Americans after an earlier worry, but it is likely that the USA will switch to a 4-4-2 and start striker Eddie Johnson. For the Italians, Francesco Totti will play after worries arose over a knee injury suffered against Ghana, while Gennaro Gattuso will make his return to the side from a leg injury. Defender Gianluca Zambrotta could also play after missing the opening victory over Ghana.

Head to head:

The two nations have met seven times previously with Italy unbeaten (five wins). The most notable was a 1-0 victory by the Italians over the USA in the group stage of the 1990 World Cup.

Probable line-ups:

Italy: Buffon, Zambrotta, Nesta, Cannavro, Grosso, De Rossi, Pirlo, Gattuso, Totti, Toni, Gilardino

USA: Keller, Lewis, Pope, Onyewu, Cherundolo, Convey, Donovan, Beasley, Reyna, McBride, Johnson.

World Cup Betting Preview: Ghana try to stay alive vs Czech Republic

2006-06-17T01:43:00.000-07:00

The Czech Republic were one of the strongest teams in the opening round of matches, and now face Ghana who need points in order to stay in the race for the next round. The Czechs beat the United States 3-0 with goals from Jan Koller and Tomas Rosicky, but suffered a blow

when Koller suffered an injury before half time.

The striker's injury was not as bad as expected but should still not be expected to play before the quarter finals, if the Czechs make it to that stage. Lokvenc is expected to replace the tall forward, as Milan Baros is still struggling with a foot injury. Ghana's line-up is not expected to change, in comparison to their first match against Italy, which was lost 2-0.

Head to head:

There have been no previous meetings between these two sides.

Probable line-ups:

Czech Republic: Cech, Grygera, Jankulovski, Rozehnal, Ujfalusi, Galasek, Nedved, Poborsky, Rosicky, Plasil, Lokvenc.

Ghana: Kingston, Paintsil, Kuffour, Mensah, Pappoe, Muntari, Essien, Appiah, Addo, Gyan, Amoah.

World Cup Fixed Odds: Portugal vs Iran Betting Preview

2006-06-17T01:37:00.000-07:00

Portugal can secure a berth in the Round of 16 on Saturday if they can defeat Iran in Frankfurt. Iran, with a loss, would be eliminated from the tournament, but Angola's draw with Mexico gave them a lifeline to advance.

The Iranians will have the services of world-record goalscorer Ali

Daei who had suffered with a back problem since their 3-1 loss to Mexico. Midfielder Ferydoon Zandi is also expected to play after a thigh woe kept him out of the last game.

As for Portugal, there had been worries over the fitness of both Deco and Cristiano Ronaldo, but it appears that both will start on Saturday. Deco missed the 1-0 win over Angola with an ankle problem and Ronaldo had received a knock that kept him from full training until Friday.

Head to head:

These two nations have met only one previous time in a 1972 Copa Independência do Brasil match that the Portuguse won 3-0.

Probable line-ups:

Portugal: Ricardo, Miguel, R. Carvalho, Meira, N. Valente, Petit, Deco, Simão, Figo, C. Ronaldo, Pauleta.

Iran: Mirzapour, Kaebi, Rezaei, Golmohammadi, Nosrati, Nekounam, Teymourian, Mahdavikia, Hashemian, Karimi, Daei.