Holland - Brazil: The Lord Mayors Show!
Dunga's men, have proved to be organised in every area of the park (a bit like South Korea) and in fact Brazil have conceded only 4 goals in their last 11 World Cup matches. But they haven't faced a team of the quality of the Dutch, so far in this competition (no offence to the Non Democratic People's Republic of Korea), and this will be a much sterner test. With Robben on fire this will be a close one!
Prediciton: Holland 1 - 2 Brazil
Uruguay - Ghana: ...and afterwards!
Gyan, Gyan, Gyan... the list of Ghana's potential match winners is endless, if you repeat the same name over and over again. I would love to see an African team go through (actually I couldn't care less, I am only saying this cos everyone else is saying it) but I think U r gay have proved to be both resolute at the back and very threatening going forward and will come out on top.
Prediciton: Uruguay 3 - 1 Ghana
Ramblings on Sport, Occasional Betting Tips, Gambling and Marketing.
Tuesday, 29 June 2010
Saturday, 26 June 2010
World Cup - Round of 16 Previews - 29th June 2010
Help me Honda, Help, Help, Help me Honda!Paraguay, fresh from their triumph in Group F, faces Japan in the last sixteen. Paraguay seem a genuinely threatening side going forward and have impressed more than most. South American teams seem to be dominating again but the Japanese are physically very fit and will go toe to toe for 90 minutes or more.
Prediction: Paraguay 3 - 1 Japan
Look at me, look at me , I'm Cristiano Ronaldo!
Naturally in Spain its billed as Spain against C-Ron. And I would imagine if you were to ask that preening peacock he would probably agree and he is probably astonished that there other people on the field. The local rivalry and the attacking ability of the two teams could make for a mouth-watering encounter but Spain has way more class. Then again, a bottle of Brut aftershave has more class than Ronaldo. Come on Spain!
Prediction: Spain 3 - 1 Portugal (Portugal will dive, frequently)
World Cup - Round of 16 Previews - 28th June 2010
Holland: Relying on Robben?
Holland, after dominating Group E, meets Italy killers, Slovakia, for a place in the quarter finals. The orange men have demonstrated a solid defence, letting in only one goal, and the ability to create goals with ease. With key man, Arjen Robben, back in the side this looks like a straightforward Dutch win with Slovakia still drunk on their triumph over holders, Italy.
Prediction: Holland 3 - 1 Slovakia
Brazil - Chile: South American Derby!
Brazil and Chile meet in the last sixteen and Dunga's men, following on from a dismal but convenient nil - nil against European cousins, Portugal, are favourites in most people's eyes. Chile has proved to be adventurous going forward and they know their opponents better than most but I think its a formality.
Prediction: Brazil 2 - 0 Chile
Holland, after dominating Group E, meets Italy killers, Slovakia, for a place in the quarter finals. The orange men have demonstrated a solid defence, letting in only one goal, and the ability to create goals with ease. With key man, Arjen Robben, back in the side this looks like a straightforward Dutch win with Slovakia still drunk on their triumph over holders, Italy.
Prediction: Holland 3 - 1 Slovakia
Brazil - Chile: South American Derby!
Brazil and Chile meet in the last sixteen and Dunga's men, following on from a dismal but convenient nil - nil against European cousins, Portugal, are favourites in most people's eyes. Chile has proved to be adventurous going forward and they know their opponents better than most but I think its a formality.
Prediction: Brazil 2 - 0 Chile
Friday, 25 June 2010
World Cup - Round of 16 Previews - 27th June 2010
Germany - England: Who will miss a penalty this time?
England have only won 6 of their last 20 meetings with Germany and as we all know in World Cups they always end in a draw after 90 minutes. Will this be a display or free flowing football from the young and aggressive Germans or can Capello tease another more spirited performance from the Three Lions?
Prediciton: Germany 1 - 1 England. Germany win on penalties, John Terry cries again!
Argentina - Mexico. So we meet again!
Four years later and these two teams meet again in the same round. Argentina are hot favourites to go far and the Central Americans have only won 4 of a previous 25 meetings between these nations but it has to be said that Mexico are a form team and they a desperate to get to the quarter finals of a World Cup, having been eliminated in the second round at their last four attempts. I hope this is a good game - it should be and Argentina will surely tirumph.
Prediciton: Argentina 2 - 1 Mexico
England have only won 6 of their last 20 meetings with Germany and as we all know in World Cups they always end in a draw after 90 minutes. Will this be a display or free flowing football from the young and aggressive Germans or can Capello tease another more spirited performance from the Three Lions?
Prediciton: Germany 1 - 1 England. Germany win on penalties, John Terry cries again!
Argentina - Mexico. So we meet again!
Four years later and these two teams meet again in the same round. Argentina are hot favourites to go far and the Central Americans have only won 4 of a previous 25 meetings between these nations but it has to be said that Mexico are a form team and they a desperate to get to the quarter finals of a World Cup, having been eliminated in the second round at their last four attempts. I hope this is a good game - it should be and Argentina will surely tirumph.
Prediciton: Argentina 2 - 1 Mexico
World Cup - Round of 16 Previews - 26th June 2010
Uruguay: No I'm not!
Uruguay opens the round of sixteen against a team they have never lost to. In fact, South Korea have only managed one draw and three losses in previous meetings with the South Americans. Tabarez's men dominated their group and history would suggest that they will progress but Korea are the first Asian side to reach the knockout stage of two World Cups and this is a great opportunity to cement themselves as the top Asian country. Will a new page of history be written? No.
Prediciton: Uruguay 2 - 2 South Korea. Uruguay win on penalties.
USA - Ghana: The greatest game of World Series soccerball, like, ever?
Ghana, the only African team to have qualified for the knockout stages, faces USA in a replay of a match in the 2006 World Cup which saw the Africans run out 2 - 1 winners. Unfortunately I think the USA and Landon "new man" Donavan will go through.
Prediciton: USA 2 - 1 Ghana. No one in the USA will care.
Uruguay opens the round of sixteen against a team they have never lost to. In fact, South Korea have only managed one draw and three losses in previous meetings with the South Americans. Tabarez's men dominated their group and history would suggest that they will progress but Korea are the first Asian side to reach the knockout stage of two World Cups and this is a great opportunity to cement themselves as the top Asian country. Will a new page of history be written? No.
Prediciton: Uruguay 2 - 2 South Korea. Uruguay win on penalties.
USA - Ghana: The greatest game of World Series soccerball, like, ever?
Ghana, the only African team to have qualified for the knockout stages, faces USA in a replay of a match in the 2006 World Cup which saw the Africans run out 2 - 1 winners. Unfortunately I think the USA and Landon "new man" Donavan will go through.
Prediciton: USA 2 - 1 Ghana. No one in the USA will care.
Thursday, 24 June 2010
World Cup - 25th June 2010 Preview
Portugal - Brazil: The Beautiful Game.
Brazil is already through, Portugal is almost certainly through? So both teams should relax and put on a real show of stylish football.
Prediction: Portugal 2 - 2 Brazil
I'm so ronery.
Ivory Coast need to score a million goals in order to qualify, assuming Portugal lose agains Brazil. They won't. North Korea will return to a heroes welcome after winning the World Cup. This game will not be televised.
Prediction: North Korea 0 - 3 Ivory Coast
Chile'S pain.
If Spain, Chile and Switzerland all finish on 6 points we go down to a series of Paper-Scissors-Stone (rock-paper-scissors) in order to decide who progresses. If Switzerland score more than three goals at one end they will progress instead of Spain unless they also score one goal at either end and Chile have three people booked. Honduras will never qualify.
Prediciton: Chile 1 - 3 Spain Prediction: Switzerland 4 - 0 Honduras
Brazil is already through, Portugal is almost certainly through? So both teams should relax and put on a real show of stylish football.
Prediction: Portugal 2 - 2 Brazil
I'm so ronery.
Ivory Coast need to score a million goals in order to qualify, assuming Portugal lose agains Brazil. They won't. North Korea will return to a heroes welcome after winning the World Cup. This game will not be televised.
Prediction: North Korea 0 - 3 Ivory Coast
Chile'S pain.
If Spain, Chile and Switzerland all finish on 6 points we go down to a series of Paper-Scissors-Stone (rock-paper-scissors) in order to decide who progresses. If Switzerland score more than three goals at one end they will progress instead of Spain unless they also score one goal at either end and Chile have three people booked. Honduras will never qualify.
Prediciton: Chile 1 - 3 Spain Prediction: Switzerland 4 - 0 Honduras
Wednesday, 23 June 2010
World Cup - 24th June 2010 Preview
End of the road for the All Whites?
Paraguay, currently group leaders, and the only team to have actually won a game in a group, dominated by draws, faces the surprise package of New Zealand (on two points). The south Americans only need a draw but this would not guarantee top spot.
Prediction: Paraguay 2 - 1 New Zealand
Azzurri: Its squeaky bum time!
Italy faces Slovakia, in a game which will decide whether they progress and defend their title. This team seems a very different proposition from that which won in Germany, four years ago. But it’s not the first time an Italian team has failed to shine and then gone on to make a serious impact, we all know what happened in 1982. Lippi will hope his team lay down a marker today and turn around their fortunes a little. Is this the end of the road for Italy?
Prediction: Slovakia 0 - 1 Italy
Only a win will do for the Danes!
Rustenburg hosts Denmark and Japan, who will be playing each other for a place in the last sixteen. Japan have surprised but they face what is arguably the best Danish outfit since the European Championship winning side. Due to goal difference a draw would see the Japanese go through so Denmark will have go all out for a victory, do they have it in them?
Prediction: Denmark 2 - 1 Japan
Cameroon - Holland
Erm... whatever.
Prediction: Cameroon 2 - 3 Holland
Paraguay, currently group leaders, and the only team to have actually won a game in a group, dominated by draws, faces the surprise package of New Zealand (on two points). The south Americans only need a draw but this would not guarantee top spot.
Prediction: Paraguay 2 - 1 New Zealand
Azzurri: Its squeaky bum time!
Italy faces Slovakia, in a game which will decide whether they progress and defend their title. This team seems a very different proposition from that which won in Germany, four years ago. But it’s not the first time an Italian team has failed to shine and then gone on to make a serious impact, we all know what happened in 1982. Lippi will hope his team lay down a marker today and turn around their fortunes a little. Is this the end of the road for Italy?
Prediction: Slovakia 0 - 1 Italy
Only a win will do for the Danes!
Rustenburg hosts Denmark and Japan, who will be playing each other for a place in the last sixteen. Japan have surprised but they face what is arguably the best Danish outfit since the European Championship winning side. Due to goal difference a draw would see the Japanese go through so Denmark will have go all out for a victory, do they have it in them?
Prediction: Denmark 2 - 1 Japan
Cameroon - Holland
Erm... whatever.
Prediction: Cameroon 2 - 3 Holland
World Cup - 23rd June 2010 Preview
Three lions on a... plane back to England!
This game is all about a win, any win, just a win. Seemingly this is too much for a much vaunted team which has totally failed to turn up and, perhaps worse than that, has looked crap! Under normal circumstances you would have to say that England are favourites to breeze past Slovenia, especially given their qualifying campaign, but times have changed and the Lions of England can barely managed a meow, let alone a roar!
Prediction: Slovenia 0 - 2 England - First half goal, followed by second half collapse, followed by late Crouch goal to give a completely false impression of English dominance.
USA Versus Algeria
Oh god, I just don't care. USA deserve it cos Algeria are totally shit but I just want England for once to play one good game in a major championship, just once...
Prediction: I will be drunk and I will cry!
Germany: Victory Day?
Germany faces Ghana in the game which is the climax of Group D. Joachim Loew's team, after a hard loss at the hands of Serbia, is looking to come good and guarantee a smooth passage for the mighty German man shaft... through to the last sixteen and the top spot in the group. Will Podolski and the rest of the non-German squad impose the German way on their opponents?
Prediction: Germany 2 - 1 Ghana
Serbia: All In!
Serbia face Australia at Nelspruit as the favourites, but Radomir Antic's team must be careful not to underestimate the Socceroos, who managed a creditable draw against Ghana.
Australia: 1 - 2 Serbia
This game is all about a win, any win, just a win. Seemingly this is too much for a much vaunted team which has totally failed to turn up and, perhaps worse than that, has looked crap! Under normal circumstances you would have to say that England are favourites to breeze past Slovenia, especially given their qualifying campaign, but times have changed and the Lions of England can barely managed a meow, let alone a roar!
Prediction: Slovenia 0 - 2 England - First half goal, followed by second half collapse, followed by late Crouch goal to give a completely false impression of English dominance.
USA Versus Algeria
Oh god, I just don't care. USA deserve it cos Algeria are totally shit but I just want England for once to play one good game in a major championship, just once...
Prediction: I will be drunk and I will cry!
Germany: Victory Day?
Germany faces Ghana in the game which is the climax of Group D. Joachim Loew's team, after a hard loss at the hands of Serbia, is looking to come good and guarantee a smooth passage for the mighty German man shaft... through to the last sixteen and the top spot in the group. Will Podolski and the rest of the non-German squad impose the German way on their opponents?
Prediction: Germany 2 - 1 Ghana
Serbia: All In!
Serbia face Australia at Nelspruit as the favourites, but Radomir Antic's team must be careful not to underestimate the Socceroos, who managed a creditable draw against Ghana.
Australia: 1 - 2 Serbia
Tuesday, 22 June 2010
World Cup - 22nd June 2010 Previews
What would Ireland have done?
Domenech's team has hilariously disintegrated in front of the world's media and this is their last chance to salvage something but Anelka has been sent home for his comments to the manager (see them below, discussing Domenech's mother's profession) and now some team mates are rumoured to be ready to boycott the match against South Africa. Its a must see game just to watch out for the phony solidarity of a bunch of overpaid, cheating, prima donnas. Ah, The Beautiful Game!
Prediction: France will go home
Mexico - Uruguay
These guys must be looking on and laughing... and if there is a god this one will end in a draw.
Prediction: Mexico 1 - 0 Uruguay
Greece - Argentina: There's only one winner?
Greece, following on from a win against Nigeria, now will pit its collective wits against the group leaders, Argentina, in a game they have to win but won't. They won't be able to bore the Argentine's into submission, although even a draw would do Maradona's men.
Prediciton: Greece 0 - 2 Argentina
Nigeria: It’s now or never!
Nigeria, after the suicidal display against Greece which saw Kaita sent off after 30 minutes, cannot afford to make any more mistakes. Only a win will do here, against South Korea. Sadly for the Eagles...
Prediction: Nigeria 1 - 1 South Korea
Domenech's team has hilariously disintegrated in front of the world's media and this is their last chance to salvage something but Anelka has been sent home for his comments to the manager (see them below, discussing Domenech's mother's profession) and now some team mates are rumoured to be ready to boycott the match against South Africa. Its a must see game just to watch out for the phony solidarity of a bunch of overpaid, cheating, prima donnas. Ah, The Beautiful Game!
Prediction: France will go home
Mexico - Uruguay
These guys must be looking on and laughing... and if there is a god this one will end in a draw.
Prediction: Mexico 1 - 0 Uruguay
Greece - Argentina: There's only one winner?
Greece, following on from a win against Nigeria, now will pit its collective wits against the group leaders, Argentina, in a game they have to win but won't. They won't be able to bore the Argentine's into submission, although even a draw would do Maradona's men.
Prediciton: Greece 0 - 2 Argentina
Nigeria: It’s now or never!
Nigeria, after the suicidal display against Greece which saw Kaita sent off after 30 minutes, cannot afford to make any more mistakes. Only a win will do here, against South Korea. Sadly for the Eagles...
Prediction: Nigeria 1 - 1 South Korea
Monday, 21 June 2010
World Cup - 21st June 2010 Previews
Portugal - North Korea: The smartest and most physicarry fit...
Cape Town is the venue for the second game in Group G as Portugal face the fit and resilient North Korean rearguard. A rearguard which should be needed with the likes of Christiano Ronaldo around. I think NK had their "final" against Brazil, and Portugal will dive just enough to win this.
Prediciton: Portugal 1 - 0 North Korea
Chile - Switzerland: Clash of the titans!
We never thought this would be the clash of the two top teams in Group H but after impressive first round games from the attacking Chileans and the super Swiss. A win here for the Swiss will see them in the driving seat requiring nothing more than a draw when they face Honduras, the weakest of the teams but I back Chile to win.
Prediction: Chile 2 - 1 Switzerland
Spain - Honduras: Goals, Goals, Goals...
Spain, again, play the last game of the round but this time it should be infinitely easier than their shock defeat to the Swiss. Failing to beat Honduras would leave the Spanish unlikely to reach the last sixteen and would be the biggest upset so far and, consequently, I don't think it will happen.
Prediction: Spain 4 - 0 Honduras
Cape Town is the venue for the second game in Group G as Portugal face the fit and resilient North Korean rearguard. A rearguard which should be needed with the likes of Christiano Ronaldo around. I think NK had their "final" against Brazil, and Portugal will dive just enough to win this.
Prediciton: Portugal 1 - 0 North Korea
Chile - Switzerland: Clash of the titans!
We never thought this would be the clash of the two top teams in Group H but after impressive first round games from the attacking Chileans and the super Swiss. A win here for the Swiss will see them in the driving seat requiring nothing more than a draw when they face Honduras, the weakest of the teams but I back Chile to win.
Prediction: Chile 2 - 1 Switzerland
Spain - Honduras: Goals, Goals, Goals...
Spain, again, play the last game of the round but this time it should be infinitely easier than their shock defeat to the Swiss. Failing to beat Honduras would leave the Spanish unlikely to reach the last sixteen and would be the biggest upset so far and, consequently, I don't think it will happen.
Prediction: Spain 4 - 0 Honduras
Saturday, 19 June 2010
World Cup - 20th June 2010 Previews
Slovakia - Paraguay: Who will upset the balance?
Bloemfontein sees the second day of Group F following the dreary draws which characterized the first encounters. Paraguay will be in high spirits following the point they gained against Italia, in contrast to the disappointment of Slovakia as they allowed football giants, New Zealand, to grab a late equalizer.
Prediction: Slovakia 0 - 0 Paraguay
Italy - New Zealand: One year on...
... and they meet again. The only other meeting between these two sides, this time last year saw Italy recover to win 4-3. But this time New Zealand are a different proposition... no they're not, and even with Italy being really rubbish they will get thrashed.
Prediciton: Italy 3 - 0 New Zealand
What will Dunga be wearing?
Will he turn out looking like a fisherman? and will he have an identically dressed sidekick like the freaky Joachim Loew? Whatever it is, it will distract from what should be a good game, but probably won't be. Drogba will fall over and fail to perfom, Eriksson will be Eriksson, Kaka will be anonymous, some other Brazilian will play well enough to score a goal, which ITV will announce as the greatest goal in the history of humanity before realising it took a deflection of 11 Ivory coast players.
Prediction: Brazil 2 - 1 Ivory Coast
Bloemfontein sees the second day of Group F following the dreary draws which characterized the first encounters. Paraguay will be in high spirits following the point they gained against Italia, in contrast to the disappointment of Slovakia as they allowed football giants, New Zealand, to grab a late equalizer.
Prediction: Slovakia 0 - 0 Paraguay
Italy - New Zealand: One year on...
... and they meet again. The only other meeting between these two sides, this time last year saw Italy recover to win 4-3. But this time New Zealand are a different proposition... no they're not, and even with Italy being really rubbish they will get thrashed.
Prediciton: Italy 3 - 0 New Zealand
What will Dunga be wearing?
Will he turn out looking like a fisherman? and will he have an identically dressed sidekick like the freaky Joachim Loew? Whatever it is, it will distract from what should be a good game, but probably won't be. Drogba will fall over and fail to perfom, Eriksson will be Eriksson, Kaka will be anonymous, some other Brazilian will play well enough to score a goal, which ITV will announce as the greatest goal in the history of humanity before realising it took a deflection of 11 Ivory coast players.
Prediction: Brazil 2 - 1 Ivory Coast
Thursday, 17 June 2010
World Cup - 19th June 2010 Previews
Holland - Japan: Its nip and tuck!
Holland and Japan meet in Durban having both secured 3 points from their first round games. You have to fancy the Dutch to get one step nearer the last 16, given their evident pedigree. With a host of stars from the top clubs of Europe they will surely win.
Prediction: Holland 3 - 1 Japan
There's only one way its Ghana finish!
Ghana plays in Rustenburg, full of confidence having seen off the much fancied Serbia, and now facing up to an Australia, demoralised by being overrun by a rampant German force, and without the influential, Tim Cahill. Will Asamoah and company impose themselves on the antipodeans and send them crashing out of the 2010 world Cup? Yep!
Prediction: Ghana 2 - 0 Australia
Cameroon - Denmark: A draw is no use!
Cameroon and Denmark, both slumped at the bottom of group E with nul points, face each other in an attempt to put their campaigns back on track. The Danes could certainly expect to qualify if they snatch a win against the Africans who still have to face Holland in the last game. This would set up an enthralling final game against Japan for Bendtner and his colleagues but....
Prediction: Cameroon 1 - 0 Denmark
Holland and Japan meet in Durban having both secured 3 points from their first round games. You have to fancy the Dutch to get one step nearer the last 16, given their evident pedigree. With a host of stars from the top clubs of Europe they will surely win.
Prediction: Holland 3 - 1 Japan
There's only one way its Ghana finish!
Ghana plays in Rustenburg, full of confidence having seen off the much fancied Serbia, and now facing up to an Australia, demoralised by being overrun by a rampant German force, and without the influential, Tim Cahill. Will Asamoah and company impose themselves on the antipodeans and send them crashing out of the 2010 world Cup? Yep!
Prediction: Ghana 2 - 0 Australia
Cameroon - Denmark: A draw is no use!
Cameroon and Denmark, both slumped at the bottom of group E with nul points, face each other in an attempt to put their campaigns back on track. The Danes could certainly expect to qualify if they snatch a win against the Africans who still have to face Holland in the last game. This would set up an enthralling final game against Japan for Bendtner and his colleagues but....
Prediction: Cameroon 1 - 0 Denmark
Wednesday, 16 June 2010
World Cup - 18th June 2010 Previews
Serbia: Loews labours lost?
For Radomir Antic's team this is the last chance to make it through, given their defeat at the hands of Ghana in the first round. The bad news for the Serbs is that Germany are perhaps the team that impressed most in their first tie, albeit against weaker opposition, and only 10 men for a good 20 minutes. Will Vidic and company pull off a miracle and will Joachim Loew's labours be lost?
Prediction: Germany 2 - 1 Serbia
Slovenia - Usa: USA, USA, USA?
The chants ring around the stadium as USA march on. Ok, realistically the vuvuzela's are the only noise you will hear but after humbling England last week, you have to fancy Bradley's USA to get the better of Slovenia.
Prediction: Slovenia 0 - 1 USA
England - Algeria: Its Crunch time...
...and not just for the Ledley King's egg-shell limbs. On the plus side, Rooney was back in training and it seems that Gareth Barry will bring a left foot into what seemed a pretty ordinary side against the US of A. Algeria also failed to impress in their opening tie against Slovenia and you would expect Capello’s "ragazzi" to turn it around this time. If they don’t, it could be “arrivederci England”!
Prediction: England 2 - 0 Algeria
For Radomir Antic's team this is the last chance to make it through, given their defeat at the hands of Ghana in the first round. The bad news for the Serbs is that Germany are perhaps the team that impressed most in their first tie, albeit against weaker opposition, and only 10 men for a good 20 minutes. Will Vidic and company pull off a miracle and will Joachim Loew's labours be lost?
Prediction: Germany 2 - 1 Serbia
Slovenia - Usa: USA, USA, USA?
The chants ring around the stadium as USA march on. Ok, realistically the vuvuzela's are the only noise you will hear but after humbling England last week, you have to fancy Bradley's USA to get the better of Slovenia.
Prediction: Slovenia 0 - 1 USA
England - Algeria: Its Crunch time...
...and not just for the Ledley King's egg-shell limbs. On the plus side, Rooney was back in training and it seems that Gareth Barry will bring a left foot into what seemed a pretty ordinary side against the US of A. Algeria also failed to impress in their opening tie against Slovenia and you would expect Capello’s "ragazzi" to turn it around this time. If they don’t, it could be “arrivederci England”!
Prediction: England 2 - 0 Algeria
World Cup - 17th June 2010 Previews
Group B: Don't cly for me South Kolea!
After their first round victories, Argentina and South Korea meet in Johannesburg in the knowledge that a win means they are almost certain to go through to the knockout phase. Unlike their dwarf-coach, Argentina have not yet reached the dizzying highs their fans expect. Argentina will be aided by the fact that the, once bastion of Argentine football - Veron, will not play because he has reached retirement age, despite Maradona admitting it is a difficult decision "because he really wants to play"!
Prediction: Argentina 1 - 0 South Korea
Nigeria looking for redemption!
If their first game couldn't have been much more daunting, then this second challenge is infinitely more straightforward, or at least it should be. Greece were truly grim against South Korea and Lars Lagerback's Nigeria should come through this encounter with 3 points.
Prediction: Greece 0 - 1 Nigeria
Ireland - Mexico
Rustenburg sees Ireland play Mexico; both teams looking to improve on two very disappointing draws against perceived weaker oposition. Les Verts have never lost to the Central Americans in 6 previous meetings, conceding a miserly 4 goals but surely they will handle the pressure better than the Sombreros?
Prediction: Ireland 0 - 0 Mexico
After their first round victories, Argentina and South Korea meet in Johannesburg in the knowledge that a win means they are almost certain to go through to the knockout phase. Unlike their dwarf-coach, Argentina have not yet reached the dizzying highs their fans expect. Argentina will be aided by the fact that the, once bastion of Argentine football - Veron, will not play because he has reached retirement age, despite Maradona admitting it is a difficult decision "because he really wants to play"!
Prediction: Argentina 1 - 0 South Korea
Nigeria looking for redemption!
If their first game couldn't have been much more daunting, then this second challenge is infinitely more straightforward, or at least it should be. Greece were truly grim against South Korea and Lars Lagerback's Nigeria should come through this encounter with 3 points.
Prediction: Greece 0 - 1 Nigeria
Ireland - Mexico
Rustenburg sees Ireland play Mexico; both teams looking to improve on two very disappointing draws against perceived weaker oposition. Les Verts have never lost to the Central Americans in 6 previous meetings, conceding a miserly 4 goals but surely they will handle the pressure better than the Sombreros?
Prediction: Ireland 0 - 0 Mexico
Tuesday, 15 June 2010
World Cup - 16th June 2010 Previews
Honduras - Chile: A point a piece?
The big one is here. Group H gets underway with the clash between Honduras and Chile.... bah, who cares?
Prediction: Honduras 0 - 2 Chile
Last but not least!
The current European Champions, Spain, kick off their campaign against Switzerland in Durban. Although Torres is likely to miss the game, Andres Iniesta may be set to play after his recent injury worries. I don't think Del Bosque's men will win the big shiny trophy thing but the zwinglians will not stop the Spanish Inquisition on this occasion.
Prediction: Spain 2 - 0 Switzerland
I'll scratch yours if you scratch mine.
Uruguay and South Africa, off the back of two great draws against stronger opposition, now square up to each other in the first game of the second round. The South Africans played above expectations in their first outing and the South Americans, stifled the French to come away with a point, although arguably they could have done more. Will Uruguay capitalise on this and overcome the home advantage and 40,000 South African fans in Pretoria to snatch 3 points?
Prediction: South Africa 0 - 0 Uruguay
The big one is here. Group H gets underway with the clash between Honduras and Chile.... bah, who cares?
Prediction: Honduras 0 - 2 Chile
Last but not least!
The current European Champions, Spain, kick off their campaign against Switzerland in Durban. Although Torres is likely to miss the game, Andres Iniesta may be set to play after his recent injury worries. I don't think Del Bosque's men will win the big shiny trophy thing but the zwinglians will not stop the Spanish Inquisition on this occasion.
Prediction: Spain 2 - 0 Switzerland
I'll scratch yours if you scratch mine.
Uruguay and South Africa, off the back of two great draws against stronger opposition, now square up to each other in the first game of the second round. The South Africans played above expectations in their first outing and the South Americans, stifled the French to come away with a point, although arguably they could have done more. Will Uruguay capitalise on this and overcome the home advantage and 40,000 South African fans in Pretoria to snatch 3 points?
Prediction: South Africa 0 - 0 Uruguay
Monday, 14 June 2010
World Cup - 15th June 2010 Previews
New Zealand - Slovakia: Whateva!
Rustenburg is the venue that concludes the first round of games in Group F as New Zealand meet Slovakia. Slovakia's track record under Vladimir Weiss has seen them rarely end the first half leading a match... will this status quo go on all game? No.
Prediction: New Zealand 0 - 3 Slovakia
Ivory Coast - Portugal: Can we have some good football please?
Ivory Coast and Portugal will battle it out in Port Elizabeth in the first tie of Group G. The Ivorians, unbeaten in qualification, have probably got second spot in the group marked out as their target but to secure that, they will need to overcome Christiano Ronaldo's beautiful hair and macho stance. Didier Drogba won't take part unless FIFA allows him to wear a prosthetic limb but it shouldn't be a problem because the Ivory Coast are managed by one of the greatest tacticians and thinkers the game has ever seen. I predict a Desmond, as they say in South Africa.
Prediciton: Ivory Coast 2 - 2 Portugal
Brasilao - North Korea: Oh, Herro Blazir!
Dunga's men face the might of North Korea in Johannesburg today in what will undoubtedly be a fine display from Kim Yong Il's XI. NK will be narrowly defeated because US forces will shoot 7 brave Korean players trying to cross the halfway line. Incidentally, The Dear Leader has allowed photographers into his PyongYang bedsit recently in an attempt to soften his image; here he is chilling with some tinnies infront of South Korea's opener against Greece.
Prediction: Brazil 3 - 0 North Korea
And just for fun check out the DPRK's web site. It's ace.
Rustenburg is the venue that concludes the first round of games in Group F as New Zealand meet Slovakia. Slovakia's track record under Vladimir Weiss has seen them rarely end the first half leading a match... will this status quo go on all game? No.
Prediction: New Zealand 0 - 3 Slovakia
Ivory Coast - Portugal: Can we have some good football please?
Ivory Coast and Portugal will battle it out in Port Elizabeth in the first tie of Group G. The Ivorians, unbeaten in qualification, have probably got second spot in the group marked out as their target but to secure that, they will need to overcome Christiano Ronaldo's beautiful hair and macho stance. Didier Drogba won't take part unless FIFA allows him to wear a prosthetic limb but it shouldn't be a problem because the Ivory Coast are managed by one of the greatest tacticians and thinkers the game has ever seen. I predict a Desmond, as they say in South Africa.
Prediciton: Ivory Coast 2 - 2 Portugal
Brasilao - North Korea: Oh, Herro Blazir!
Dunga's men face the might of North Korea in Johannesburg today in what will undoubtedly be a fine display from Kim Yong Il's XI. NK will be narrowly defeated because US forces will shoot 7 brave Korean players trying to cross the halfway line. Incidentally, The Dear Leader has allowed photographers into his PyongYang bedsit recently in an attempt to soften his image; here he is chilling with some tinnies infront of South Korea's opener against Greece.
Prediction: Brazil 3 - 0 North Korea
And just for fun check out the DPRK's web site. It's ace.
Sunday, 13 June 2010
World Cup - 14th June 2010 Previews
Easy win for the Dutch?
Holland, without the fragile Robben, face Denmark in Johannesburg in the crunch match of group E. The Orange men, favourites to come through this group unscathed, have a team rich in winners in all areas of the field so surely nothing, even in the shape of Morten Olsen's men, can stop them. Will Sneijder and his colleagues make mince meat of the Danes or maybe Orange juice or even Holland-aise sauce... Geddit? Sorry!
Prediction: Holland 2 - 0 Denmark
Japan - Cameroon: Roar!
The Free State stadium sees this encounter between the probable underdogs of Japan against the talented but enigmatic Cameroon. So much depends on which Samuel Eto'o turns up. He is the undoubted talent and leader of this pride of African lions, trained by Paul Le Guen. Meanwhile the Japanese coach, a certain Mr Okada, set alight the world of footbal reportage, in a recent interview, by saying "With these players, I want good performance". Cameroon have often impressed in international competitions but the relentless Japanese, who have been training hard, will look to stifle this game with good performance.
Prediction: Japan 0 - 1 Cameroon
Welcome to the stage... The World Champions.
Italy, perhaps the least lauded of World Champions, begins the defence of its title in Cape Town against Paraguay. Lippi's men certainly didn't shine in recent games but as everybody knows, a friendly is a very different proposition and the Italians are masters at grinding out results (surely; diving at opportune moments) when it really matters as they proved four years ago.
Last time these two met in a WC Finals Italy ran out 2-0 winners... but that was way back in 1950 when nearly everyone played in black and white. Will the Azzurri repeat the feat, 60 years on?
Prediction: Italy 2 - 0 Paraguay
Holland, without the fragile Robben, face Denmark in Johannesburg in the crunch match of group E. The Orange men, favourites to come through this group unscathed, have a team rich in winners in all areas of the field so surely nothing, even in the shape of Morten Olsen's men, can stop them. Will Sneijder and his colleagues make mince meat of the Danes or maybe Orange juice or even Holland-aise sauce... Geddit? Sorry!
Prediction: Holland 2 - 0 Denmark
Japan - Cameroon: Roar!
The Free State stadium sees this encounter between the probable underdogs of Japan against the talented but enigmatic Cameroon. So much depends on which Samuel Eto'o turns up. He is the undoubted talent and leader of this pride of African lions, trained by Paul Le Guen. Meanwhile the Japanese coach, a certain Mr Okada, set alight the world of footbal reportage, in a recent interview, by saying "With these players, I want good performance". Cameroon have often impressed in international competitions but the relentless Japanese, who have been training hard, will look to stifle this game with good performance.
Prediction: Japan 0 - 1 Cameroon
Welcome to the stage... The World Champions.
Italy, perhaps the least lauded of World Champions, begins the defence of its title in Cape Town against Paraguay. Lippi's men certainly didn't shine in recent games but as everybody knows, a friendly is a very different proposition and the Italians are masters at grinding out results (surely; diving at opportune moments) when it really matters as they proved four years ago.
Last time these two met in a WC Finals Italy ran out 2-0 winners... but that was way back in 1950 when nearly everyone played in black and white. Will the Azzurri repeat the feat, 60 years on?
Prediction: Italy 2 - 0 Paraguay
World Cup - 13th June 2010 Previews
Algeria - Slovenia: Issa proper free pointer innit?!
In Polokwane Algeria and Slovenia start their campaign, both earmarked as the "cindarellas" of the group which sees England as favourites - Robert Green permitting. These two sides must take every opportunity to grab 3 points if they stand any chance of progressing from the group phase - unless Robert Green helps them. Can Algeria win this? Can Slovenia win this? Can anyone win this? What will Robert Green do next?
Prediction: Algeria 0 - 0 Slovenia
Serbia - Ghana: Target = second place?
The spotlight in group D is firmly on Serbia against Ghana at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium. Both nations kick off as second favourites to Germany in this group and will probably be fighting it out for second spot and a passage to the next stage. 3 Points are paramount in this one, but who will come out eventual winners?
Prediction: Serbia 0 - 0 Ghana
Business as usual for the Germans?
Deutschland Deutschland plays Australia Fair in Durban, in a group that on paper is anything but straightforward. But this is Germany and Germany always get to the latter stages of the bla bla bla... Actually it will be tough against the organised Socceroos, who always back themselves to do well, in typical Aussie fashion. Will the tight shirted, uber cool and - it has to be said - uber gets on my tits, Joachim Luurv get the win his homeland expects?
Prediciton: Germany 1 - 0 Australia
In Polokwane Algeria and Slovenia start their campaign, both earmarked as the "cindarellas" of the group which sees England as favourites - Robert Green permitting. These two sides must take every opportunity to grab 3 points if they stand any chance of progressing from the group phase - unless Robert Green helps them. Can Algeria win this? Can Slovenia win this? Can anyone win this? What will Robert Green do next?
Prediction: Algeria 0 - 0 Slovenia
Serbia - Ghana: Target = second place?
The spotlight in group D is firmly on Serbia against Ghana at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium. Both nations kick off as second favourites to Germany in this group and will probably be fighting it out for second spot and a passage to the next stage. 3 Points are paramount in this one, but who will come out eventual winners?
Prediction: Serbia 0 - 0 Ghana
Business as usual for the Germans?
Deutschland Deutschland plays Australia Fair in Durban, in a group that on paper is anything but straightforward. But this is Germany and Germany always get to the latter stages of the bla bla bla... Actually it will be tough against the organised Socceroos, who always back themselves to do well, in typical Aussie fashion. Will the tight shirted, uber cool and - it has to be said - uber gets on my tits, Joachim Luurv get the win his homeland expects?
Prediciton: Germany 1 - 0 Australia
Tuesday, 8 June 2010
Must the Show Go On? iGaming Super Show Review
This month Richard Wanigasekera, sales manager for iGaming Business' affiliate products, has contributed a review of the Prague Super Show for egamingblog.com. Richard is the newest addition to the successful team and oversees all commercial elements of the industry leading iGB Affiliate magazine, affiliate conferences and affiliate awards ceremony.
The newest addition to our list of events was the recent iGaming Supershow held in Prague, www.igamingsupershow.com. The iGaming Supershow is the first of its kind. This was an attempt to apply our winning affiliate conference formula to the B2B side of the igaming industry by combining the two in an interesting location. Location is an incredibly important factor, as we don’t want our delegates simply attending a conference venue. We want them to enjoy themselves and have an adventure. It’s not just about work, it’s also the experience we want you to remember.
The B2B area of igaming is already well catered for with events held globally such as the newly re-branded IGE (International Gaming Expo – formerly knows as ICE), and G2E (Global Gaming Expo), to name a couple. These shows attract a large number of global delegates and serve the industry very well, but they do seem to lack the overall igaming mantra of “work hard and play hard”. I hate to tap into a cliché, but it really does apply in our industry. A show isn’t over when the doors close. It should be a non-stop opportunity to do business that is only over when you get back home!
iGaming Business events have always viewed networking as an important area of our industry experience. The relationships forged in social-like settings have traditionally offered a much stronger foundation to base a business relationship on. Meeting someone at a stand is a fantastic way to meet new business contacts and increase the branding of your product. What we do well is add to this by providing networking opportunities at our events that will ensure that you go home with more than just business cards. We want you to remember the individual behind the business card.
As I previously mentioned, I only recently joined the iGaming Business team. I’ve worked in the industry since November 2004, and have attended nearly all gaming shows since then. My main objective at this show was to introduce myself to our exhibitors and get their feedback. As it happened, the show was so busy that I didn’t get the chance to meet everyone over the two days! I intended to attend some seminars, but had no time to do that either. It was definitely the busiest conference I’d ever attended.
One thing we learnt from exhibitors and delegates is that some areas of the show needed to be improved. These include conference venue, transport to and from the conference, the catering and internet service. This is the first show of its kind combining the Affiliate and B2B areas and the concept worked. The 2086 delegates that walked through the doors were a testament to that. The location of the conference could, however, have been better. Prague was great in concept but turned out to be a logistical nightmare. I personally watched our events team work twelve hour days five days a week to ensure that the show was well organized. Sometimes the language and cultural barrier is too great to ignore. It’s catch-22. We never know how well a show can be run at a new venue/location until we conduct a post-show evaluation.
The show was a success, and therefore it will go on. The second year is also always more successful than the first, therefore I can’t wait to be a part of this in 2011, but it wont be held in the Czech Republic again. Where will it be held next? Personally, I’d like to see Vancouver or Costa Rica, but who knows!? My highlight of the show has always been the people. I’ve made good friends old and new at these events and just happen to do business with them. As long as that part of our formula stays, I’m happy to travel the world for our shows.
See you all in Budapest for the BAC 2010!
For more information contact EGC or Richard directly on richard@igamingbusiness.com or click the following links: www.igamingbusiness.com, www.igbaffiliate.com, www.igbaffiliateawards.com, www.londonaffiliateconference.com, www.budapestaffiliateconference.com, www.igbespana.com, www.igbdownunder.com
Interested in contributing to the eGaming Blog? Email us on info@egamingconsulting.com
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