Can the Kiwis go all the way this time?

The Groups

Group A (NZ, FRA, TON, CAN, JAP)

Edward: Perhaps the least interesting group, at least I reckon so. Both France and New Zealand were favourites to go through, almost no upsets; excluding that spectacular performance by Tonga against France; though, kudos to Japan; managing to pull off a draw with Canada. New Zealand is tipped to win; their performance in the group stage seems to agree with this prediction. Japan have come out of this competition my favourite team, not because of any grand victory, but the sheer determination they played all their games with; JAPAN 2015!

Colm: No surprises to see New Zealand go through top of their pool undefeated and barely challenged. It was also great to see the some of the minnows such as Canada and Tonga pulling off shock victories. France have been very disappointing, and the player-coach relationship is appalling, but one thing we have learned from the French at World Cup time is that they save their best footy till the finals.

Gordon: Unpredictably dominated New Zealand, who would have thought? France were second-rate whilst Tonga and Canada produced some shocks. Really this is New Zealand’s tournament to lose once again. They pretty much destroyed all their opponents. As much as France were poor, they almost seem to drag themselves through the groups every four years then pull out the magic for the finals. Japan and Canada have a lot of passion which is great to see for world rugby.

Group B (ENG, ARG, SCO, ROM, GEO)

Edward: Another group that was fairly predictable; Argentina surprised with some spectacular performances against Scotland and England, nearly causing an upset against the latter in a pretty tense match. Bit upsetting to not see Scotland go through, but Argentina deserved the spot. Romania and Georgia were always going to have a tough time in this group and it’s a bit sad to see them get steamrolled.

Colm: A fiercely fought pool, with England and Argentina progressing. It was a real shame to see Scotland twice defeated in the dying minutes by the two teams ahead of them, whilst Georgia fought well against Argentina and Scotland to show the rugby world that the minnow nations are catching up.

Gordon: Fun pool in general. England were challenged consistently by Argentina and Scotland at least. Match of the group was surely Argentina v Scotland. That game had almost everything; tries, penalties, mistakes, tension and a late drop goal attempt to win it. A close second was the opening game when Scotland just, just got over a hungry Romania.

Group C (IRE, AUS, ITA, RUS, USA)

Edward: Our favourite group of course and a couple of upsets and surprises to boot. Australia v Ireland; what more can I say? It was quite a shock, but the Irish deserved the victory and Australia didn’t; don’t expect Robbie Deans to be around much longer. Ireland was always going to go through of course, and they played really well. Russia and the US were both going to be interesting teams to watch, and both teams scored a couple of excellent tries and showed improvement over the pool games. Italy was a bit of a dark horse; they can play well, we’ve seen that, but they weren’t consistent, expect improvement over the next couple of years, they’re becoming a strong team.

Colm: A huge upset between Ireland and Australia throws the tournament planners heads into haywire. An expected Australia-NZ final is now impossible with the Irish suddenly clicking into gear and playing smart World Cup rugby. Italy, Russia and the USA were disappointing to say the least. Being minnows of the world, none attempted to punch above their weight by playing attractive rugby.

Gordon: Biggest shock of the cup in this group when Ireland got over Australia. The Australians offence is still one of the best at this cup, but I’m nowhere near convinced their defence is up to the task. Ireland have been impressive in the way they’ve built up momentum after struggling against USA in their first match. Italy were gallant whilst I think Russia will be a major force in a few years. Same for USA, but they still have some way to go for me.

Group D (SA, WAL, SAM, FIJ, NAM)

Edward: The most exciting and enjoyable group for me to watch, I think I saw all of Wales’ games. And boy, the Welsh have put up an excellent team this year, it’s probably too early to speculate, but they have my money on making it to the final this year. South Africa played the usual, great, but not excellent. Samoa proved to be a surprise in a great way; that’s how you’re supposed to play the game folks; they were a joy to watch. Fiji was also a surprise, but in a bad way, I’d expected a much better performance from a traditionally strong team. Namibia leaves the tournament with the wooden spoon; however being the only completely amateur team in the comp they deserve a pat on the back.

Colm: Perhaps the best games of the cup so far played out in this pool between South Africa-Wales, Wales-Samoa, and South Africa-Samoa. A real shame to see the Islanders depart, although the Welsh have played extremely good rugby since arriving, and there are no surprises seeing South Africa top the pool, although they aren’t thanking Ireland for planting the Wallabies in their path to the semis.

Gordon:  What a group! Hands down most exciting of the competition. South Africa proved their favourite credentials and whilst Fiji and Samoa both missed out of qualification here, I think they could have easily made it in one of the other groups. Wales were under pressure going in to this group but credit where it’s due, they performed when they had little backing so good luck to them.

The Quarters

QF #1 – Ireland v Wales

Edward: Well, I know how I’m spending this Saturday afternoon. This is going to be one excellent match, both teams are at peak performance, both teams have the ability to win over each other, both have played excellently not just this Cup but in the past twenty-four months. I reckon it could go either way, but if I had to choose: Wales. Either way, it’s going to be excellent.

Colm: These two sides both struggled in this year’s six-nations but have been the most impressive at the World Cup thus far. One match that stands out for me is Wales’ 66-0 demolition of Fiji, the team that put them out of RWC 2007. The Welsh are playing with a confidence not seen in them since their grand slam of 2008. The Irish stunned the Australians, but have they pulled off their upset too early? As much as my Irish heritage wants them to win, I think Wales were unlucky to lose to South Africa and are deserving of a semi-final appearance. Wales by 3.

Gordon: This should be a wonderful clash. Both teams arguably performed better than expected in their respective groups and are on major highs. Wales were really unlucky against South Africa whilst Ireland are playing some of their best rugby in years. It’s very tight but I’ve just got a feeling Ireland will sneak it by 5.

QF #2 – England v France

Edward: This is going to be another interesting match; both teams have the ability, but haven’t shown it this cup. That being said, France isn’t putting in as much a poor performance in England in my opinion. This is another game that could go either way, but not from good performance, it’s going to be a game of mistakes leading to defeat and victory. England will probably pull through, but to be honest, I wouldn’t be surprised to see France win either.

Colm: One of the biggest rivalries in the world, not just on the rugby field. Neither side have been impressive and have made headlines more for their off-field antics then on. While England are favourites, it is hard to say is dealing with more distraction: the English and their ‘dwarf throwing’ incident, or the French and their coach. France have never failed to make the semis of a World Cup, but this time, surely, they don’t deserve to. England by 4.

Gordon: As I mentioned pre-World Cup, I think England along with the Tri-Nations sides are the only four teams with a realistic chance of taking it out. I’m going to back that call (maybe because I’m just arrogant!) and say that England will easily take care of the French. I just think England are a better oiled unit than France right now and can turn on the style when needed. A comfortable victory of 10 or more for England.

QF #3 – South Africa v Australia

Edward: ‘Hmm’ is probably all that can be said about this match. Australia on one hand has been playing rather well; Australia has also had two shock defeats in nearly as many months. Australia beat South Africa in the Tri-Nations however. South Africa has been playing as they normally do; they’ve got no real detractions, but no boons either. Australia will almost certainly win this match; the only question is the scoreboard at the end.

Colm: The quarter final that wasn’t meant to be, but that is drawing the most excitement across the Tasman (bar NZ’s quarter). Neither side has looked at their peak so far this tournament, however, with David Pocock in the Australian line up, expect a far more physical Wallabies forward pack which I believe can monster the Springboks, and we have it all over them in the backs. Australia by 7.

Gordon: Australia have the wood over South Africa this year and I think they’ll continue the trend. Digby Ioane is back for the Aussies which is huge whilst the Springboks have lost some key men including Bakkies Botha. Bismarck du Plessis looks set to start from the bench and for me that’s a shame, he is a deserved starter. David Pocock will return for the Wallabies and I think their almost siege mentality in New Zealand at the moment will drive them home.

QF #4 – New Zealand v Argentina

Edward: Sadly, I think there is no contest here, New Zealand is still playing its best, and has no signs of choking just yet (we’ll see about the semi’s however). New Zealand outclasses every other team in the competition at the moment, and given how Argentina failed to beat England, and New Zealand walks over England, ignoring the traditional “choke” this one is in the bag for New Zealand. Will be a good game to watch though; expect a margin of at least 10 points in this one too.

Colm: The big question everyone is asking is can New Zealand win it without Carter? Certainly they are far more vulnerable without the star five-eighth, but it is difficult to see Argentina being the ones to break the hearts of all New Zealanders. Argentina have struggled to put away the minnow nations whilst New Zealand have played near flawless footy. New Zealand by 15.

Gordon: Argentina have come leaps and bounds in the last year, but this is going to be one jump to far for the Pumas. New Zealand will be rampant again for me and although they’ve lost Dan Carter, I don’t think it will affect them too much, certainly not in this game. I think they’ll put at least 25+ on Argentina. The Pumas will be as resilient as ever, but I think the Kiwis by 15 or more.

What Do You Think?

The boys have had their say, but what do you reckon? Can the Wallabies bounce back against South Africa? Will New Zealand choke again? Let us know in the comments section!

Today marks the beginning of a countdown to the start of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, South Africa! In anticipation of the event we’re previewing each group and every team in it. We kick off with Group A.

FRANCE

Formation: 4-2-3-1

TAB Sportsbet: $17

The Coach: Raymond Domenech

Whilst the boss has come under criticism of late, there’s no doubt he knows how to manage a squad of pure talent. He’s one of the most unpopular coaches in the world right now, but if he can somehow convert the talent he has into results, his reputation will skyrocket.

The Captain: Theirry Henry

Like Domenech, Henry is possible one of the most hated players in the world going into the Cup, well at least in the Republic. France qualified for the tournament via his hand and he has had a terrible season at Barca. But in what may be his final chance, Henry will look to expel his demons with a good showing.

Henry... Can he overcome the controversy?

The X-Factor: Yoann Gourcuff

The talented Bordeaux man posses some of the most amazing skills in the French squad and no wonder he’s been touted as the next Zidane.  The problem for the midfielder has been transferring club form to the international front. If he can do it, not only will France go far, but he could revitalise a nation.

The Flaw: Confidence

Rarely have we seen a side that made the final in the previous Cup crumble so amazingly. People playing in uncomfortable positions and with a nation almost against them, if results don’t go their way from the get-go, confidence will suffer immensely.

The Verdict: Round of 16

French football has arguably never been in a worse state than it is at the moment. Press report that they’re lacking a drive to win and passion in the shirt. However, when you have the likes of Gallas, Ribery, Gourcuff, Anelka and Henry all in the same team you can’t blame a lack of skill.

-

SOUTH AFRICA

Formation: 4-4-2

TAB Sportsbet: $101

The Coach: Carlos Alberto Parreira

The Brazilian is back for his second consecutive Cup, however his record at the tournament is dismal. He’s been to the tournament five times with four nations, however has only moved into the knockout stages two times, both coming with Brazil.

The Captain: Aaron Mokoena

Mokoena has been an inspirational captain of late for Bafana Bafana, however he will need to provide with more than inspiration at the finals. Recently though, he has had many critics claiming he is no longer good enough to start at the heart of the defence.

Can Pienaar inspire Bafana Bafana?

The X-Factor: Steven Pienaar

The diminutive Everton midfielder has had a good season with the Blues but will need to be the creative spark that’s lacking any type of innovative play. He will need to step up if the Africans look to even win a game.

The Flaw: Offence

South Africa’s ability to find the net will be a telling factor. Parreira had to even recall Benni McCarthy to his squad earlier in the campaign to add potency to his strike force. However he has been dropped for the final 23 so if the likes of Mphela can’t produce or get injured, trouble is on the way.

The Verdict: Group Stage

Whilst all the states seem to go against the Africans, with a home crowd providing a twelfth man in the stands, anything’s possible. They will also be out to ensure they don’t claim an unwanted feat – no host nation has ever failed in making it beyond the group stages. We think that might change this year.

-

MEXICO

Formation: 4-5-1

TAB Sportsbet: $67

The Coach: Javier Aguirre

This former Atletico Madrid coach is a popular man, with many believing he saved what could have been a disastrous qualifying campaign. However, when the Mexicans get to the finals it’s hard to assume what side will turn up, and if history is any guide, he will be gone after it.

Football is the most popular sport in the world, rightly called the world game, and though the externalities of the game are constantly changing at a rapid pace, the game itself has remained traditional, and is still growing at a large rate around the world. So this poses the question; why fix that which is not broken?

I sit back watching many sports, where umpires and referees have lost all confidence in their own ability to make a decision. Video replays are used for Rugby League and Cricket, yet even with technology in sport, we still get just as many, if not more wrong decision. There is still always an uncertainty with the use of technology, and often creates more problems than it solves. We still often can’t tell when the ball caries to a fielder or if the player was out or in as he put the ball down for a try.

The time wasting also involved with using technology would see the normal stoppage time extend from two to four minutes to double or even triple that. Referees will start jumping to technology, much like in Rugby League when a try is scored, or umpires in cricket when there is a run out, for their every decision. Keep the power with the referees, for technology within other sports, at least for the moment is too indecisive and cumbersome to be of much use.

A backline official has been on the cards for a long time. This position is a totally unnecessary one, a man payed to do the job of the other officials and be called upon maybe once a match. The ‘hand of frog’ incident was so blatantly obvious I would not be the only one questioning whether the referee and linesman overlooked it on purpose to get one of their top teams into the World Cup. The money that would be spent on these officials I would much rather see spent on training the officials we already have to improve decisions all over the pitch, rather than just within the goal mouths.

A replay of the match was never on the cards despite the FAI’s appeal to FIFA. It was a cruel, unfair and dirty way for Ireland to be knocked out, but that’s football, no one likes it but every player has experienced it and should move on. People are pointing back to the Uzbekistan-Bahrain Qualifying match of 2005 that was replayed as a precedent. But the error made in that game was completely different, with not a missed call, but rather a blatantly wrong decision by the laws of the game from the referee. If a game can be upturned by a missed call, you would have precedent to replay almost every match ever played.

As such, I do not think its right for the integrity of the sport, nor for the young kids all over the world to see this incident to go unpunished. I believe FIFA has to take a step into the game and start punishing those players who are found to be cheating. I am not only talking about sly moves like Henry’s but also the increasing amount of players diving to try and get free kicks and other low moves. As a coach for young kids new to football I am amazed at how many you see copying these styles within park football. I think it’s disgusting not only for football but sport in general that these underhand tactics are allowed, and if FIFA wants to get this out of its wonderful game it needs to take a stand, because if they do I believe it will quickly leave the game. It is time for FIFA to take a stand, to bring back integrity and skill to the forefront of global football.