The long list of German talents doesn't stop. This years World Cup was all about a certain Mesut Oezil, while the next tournament may belong to this gifted individual...
Toni Kroos
Club: FC Bayern Munich Age: 20 Position: Attacking Midfielder Claim to fame: Made his Bayern Munich aged just 17. Member of 2010 German World Cup team
Prospects:As stated, he made his Bayern Munich full team debut aged just 17, and is one of the most promising members of the latest batch of German stars. He has received plaudits from German heroes past and present, including record goalscorer Miroslav Klose and goalkeeping legend Oliver Kahn.
He is a technically gifted player, with an eye for goal, attacking flair, great shooting technique, creativity and determination. The list of attributes and skills this player has is endless, and he is on the right path to becoming a World Class midfielder.
He made his German national team debut in March 2010, and played in every round of this year’s World Cup campaign, mainly as a substitute. But with the array of talented individuals coming through, he is expected to be a focal point for the national team at the 2012 and 2014 international tournaments.
Winner: Andres Iniesta Runner Up: Bastian Schweinsteiger Honourable Mention: Carlos Puyol
The winning goal in the World Cup final is every players dream, and Iniesta’s dream came true in extra time at the Soccer City Stadium. No doubt the added break Iniesta took during the season with Barcelona through injury, helped his performances at this year’s tournament, strolling through all the games since that defeat to Switzerland. Iniesta stats didn’t lie in this tournament, although he only scored 2 goals, both were vital in wins over Chile (2:1) and of course Holland (1:0). The 26 year old had a 73% pass completion rate, and covered over 41 miles during the tournament.
Bastian Schweinsteiger, an admiral runner-up, had an excellent tournament and has now established himself as a world class central midfielder, taking up the new role as “The Metronome” as the way the Bayern Munich midfielder dominated and dictated the play is a joy to behold. Just 25 years of age, two more World Cup’s are possible, and more medals are a serious possibility.
Carlos Puyol, he is vital for Spain, and has continued his brilliant Barcelona form onto the world stage and help his country only concede two goals at this year’s tournament. He scored the winner in the semi-final
Thomas Mueller, the 20 year old Bayern Munich attacker, has had a brilliant World Cup and has burst onto the World Stage. He took Europe by storm last season, helping Bayern reach the Champions League final. He played 6 games at this year’s tournament, scoring 5 goals, laying on 3 assists and being voted man of the match for his performances in the wins against England and Uruguay. Collect both the Golden Ball and Best Young Player award.
Mesut Ozil, another German youngster, had a brilliant tournament and again caused real interest in his and Germany’s performances. The 22 year old helped himself to 1 goal, 3 assists, with a 71% pass completion rate. Another youngster with a very bright future.
25 year old Asamoah Gyan held up the hopes of Arica, helping Ghana reach the quarter-finals in just their second tournament. He scored 3 goals in 5 games, and helped gain the respect of many pundits as a very good lone striker. The only blight on his performances was that penalty miss against Uruguay, but expect the lively Ghanaian to bounce back and be even stronger for the next tournament.
Biggest Shock
Winner: Switzerland 1-0 Spain Runner Up: Italy 2 – 3 Slovenia Honourable Mention: New Zealand finishing 3rd in their group
Goal of the Tournament
Winner: Giovanni Van Bronckhorst vs Uruguay Runner Up: Fabio Quagliarella vs Slovenia Honourable Mention: Mesut Ozil vs Ghana
Ghana, who beat Serbia and USA in this campaign, were deemed the moral victors of the World Cup after the controversial quarter final defeat to Uruguay. A team packed full of youngsters, mixed with older and more experienced individuals, who flew the flag for Africa after a poor showing from the other nations at the tournament.
Spain, the winners of their first ever trophy, playing the best football at the tournament, and deservedly collecting the World Cup title. The likes of Iniesta, Xavi, Puyol and Casillas are talented natural born winners and deservedly leave South Africa with a winner’s medal.
Germany would have surely been on route to the final if they hadn’t met Spain in the semi final. Destroying pre tournament favourites England 4-1, in tournament favourites Argentina 4-0, were some of the highlights of the Germans campaign.
Real Madrid’s number one, had an average season this year, but is a completely different individual for Spain. The way the Spanish keep the ball means the opposition rarely get attempts on goal, however in the final, Arjen Robben broke through the defence twice and was one on one with the goalkeeper, with Casillas stopped the Dutchman twice. Winner of the FIFA golden gloves, and a well deserved accolade.
To be honest the goalkeepers at the tournament were quite average, and the Slovenian goalkeeper impressed with his displays in the group stages, and is one of the brightest prospects in Europe with Udinese, and could definitely play for a Champions League club.
Eduardo, formerly of Sporting Braga, impressed at this tournament, although no more than any other goalkeeper to be honest, and has since earned himself a move to Genoa in Serie A.
Defender of the Tournament
Winner: Philip Lahm Runner Up: Carlos Puyol Honourable Mention: John Mensah
Philip Lahm, who had a very good previous tournament, has had another excellent tournament this time round, and is undoubtedly the most complete full back in the World, excellent going forward but even better defensively. Germany’s undisputed national team captain.
Again the Barcelona defender has performed excellent at this World Cup, and is undoubtedly the best centre back in the World.
Ghana’s John Mensah receives an honourable mention, despite his awful penalty kick against Uruguay, the 27 year old defender, currently on loan at Sunderland, experience was vital to his countries performance in South Africa, and had some excellent performances against Germany, USA and Serbia.
Midfielder of the Tournament
Winner: Andres Iniesta Runner Up: Bastian Schweinsteiger Honourable Mention: Xavi
The reasoning for these awards were highlighted earlier, Spain’s sensational midfield duo of Iniesta and Xavi, tied with Barcelona team mate Sergio Basquets helped Spain dominate teams ultimately culminating in winning the trophy.
Bastian Schweinsteiger was the driving force behing the Germany teams ascendance back onto the World stage.
Striker of the Tournament
Winner: Miroslav Klose Runner Up: David Villa Honourable Mention: Diego Forlan
For me, Miroslav Klose was the best striker at this tournament, and is one of the best to play in the World Cup tournament itself. The 32 year old has had a terrible season for Bayern Munich only scoring 3 goals in all competitions, but he has a knack for performing on the world stage. He is the second highest goal scorer in World Cup finals history with 14 goals in 3 tournaments, one behind Ronaldo, and his caused was helped with 4 goals scored in 5 games at this tournament, including Australia, England and a brace against Argentina.
David Villa was vital to helping Spain win the World Cup, scoring 5 goals in 7 games. Slyly anonymous in the semi final and final, that’s why he missed out on the top spot, but he was brilliant nonetheless, causing people to accuse Fernando Torres of being a rubbish striker, rather than a player who has just come back from injury. Diego Forlan, FIFA’s recipient of the golden ball for the best player at the tournament, but is an admirable third place from Real Talk Football. Excellent goals, and an iron nerve, Forlan guided his country to fourth place at the World Cup.
Star of the Tournament
Winner: Wesley Sneijder Runner Up: Andres Iniesta Honourable Mention: Luis Suarez
Underperformers of the Tournament
Winner: England Runner Up: Italy Honourable Mention: France
England had another overhyped tournament, and once again underperformed in South Africa. No real excuses can be made for the poor showing, they had a good coach and a sufficient amount of depth within the squad but clearly some of the strange decisions made by Fabio Cappello undoubtedly aided in the second round defeat. Struggling to qualify from the group, as soon as they faced a really good opposition, they crumbled and left the tournament without a whimper and got an extra two week holiday on the luxury island of their choice.
Italy and France’s problems were well documented. Italy were defending World Champions but finished bottom of a group that included Slovakia, New Zealand and Paraguay, while the French, runners-up four years ago, had another awful tournament, also finishing bottom of their group while the big ego’s of players such as William Gallas, Patrice Evra, Thierry Henry and Nicholas Anelka led to in fighting and denial to train. The most unprofessional and shambolic performance I’ve ever seen.
Of course no disrespect to Ghana, overachievement is undoubtedly a good thing in the World Cup, and teams will now no longer ignore the African side as they should have made it to the semi finals but were undone by some controversial Uruguayan methods. Second round four years ago, quarter finals this time round, how will they do in 2014?
Uruguay lost 3-2 to Holland in the semi-final so that shows you how close they were to the World Cup final. Some great attacking football, along with some great goals meant Uruguay can be very pleased with the account they gave of themselves in South Africa.
Paraguay qualified top of their group, winning the first penalty shoot out of the World Cup, losing to eventual winners Spain in the quarter finals.
Do you agree with the awards? Comment below or on the Facebook page and let me know you opinion.
With the World Cup now taking centre stage in the sporting world, it's clear that everyone's eyes are solely fixed on their respective nations matches and players, while the fans and media are scrutinising every managers tactics and every decision.
Now the world's premier sports competition has reached its most exciting part, the knockout phases, there are just 16 teams left in the competition, with 16 teams on the plane back home (including 2006 finalist's France and winners Italy).
Let's look at the second round line up:
Uruguay VS South Korea
Uruguay
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The Uruguayans finished top of Group A, with two wins against South Africa and Mexico, while drawing on the opening night of the tournament against France. The Uruguayans impressed many in the group stages with their attacking prowess and the front three combination of Luis Suarez, Edison Cavani and key man Diego Forlan. Also dont discount the no nonsense defending from Diego Lugano and Diego Godin, plus the safe hands of Fernando Muslera helped Uruguay qualify without conceding a goal.
Key Man
Diego Forlan
The Athletico Madrid hitman has had another excellent in Spain, and has managed to transfer this form onto the international scene. He has played all 3 games so far, scoring two goal and was voted man of the match for his performances against South Africa and France. He could be the difference on the day.
South Korea
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The South Koreans somewhat failed to live up to the 2002 hype at the previous tournament, but make no mistake they have definitely been one of the most consistent and efficient teams on display at this years competition. They finished runners up in their group behind Argentina, after beating Greece and earning a somewhat lucky draw with Nigeria. The only blemish in the group was a 4-1 defeat to Argentina.
Key Man
Park Ji-Sung
The Manchester United midfielder is the key man for the national side, and his performances so far have done nothing but increase his reputation as a very hard working and professional individual. I have been very impressed with him so far, and believe he is an excellent leader of the South Korean squad.
Prediction
I believe Uruguay are the favourites for this match, and will duly deliver. The South Korean's were heavily beaten by the last South American side they faced, and Uruguay play a similar attacking style to the Argentines, and the front three should be too much for Park Ji-Sung's team to handle. Uruguay 2-0 winners.
USA vs Ghana
USA
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The American's comfortably topped Group C, although they left it quite late against Algeria to collect the top spot. Another hard working team, which are very resolute although not being the best technical team, but that American tenacity is what has helped them fight back to earn draws with England and Slovenia, and win the group.
Key Man
Clint Dempsey
England fans will be familiar with Dempsey, not only because he helped Fulham reach the Europa League final, but it was his tame shot that Robert Green spilt into the net in the opening group game. The big bustling striker can cause the Ghana defence problems with his agility and technique, while shutting down his attempts on goal is a must.
Ghana
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What can be said about the Ghana team? The most effective and complete African team in the competition, they seem to have a strong sturdy defence, solid goalkeeper, hard working midfield, attacking flair, but the only thing missing is that goalscorer.
Key Man
Asamoah Gyan
Asamoah Gyan has been excellent so far, scoring two penalties, but he cannot do it all alone. He needs a bit more help upfront, and the Ghanaian attackers need to take their chances if they are to advance. Gyan has impressed many with his agility, pace and skill. He is a very good player, and can cause the USA defence many problems.
Prediction
The Ghana team had many chances against Germany, and still lost, and against a ten man Australia, only drawing. However Ghana are a very good collective unit and should be able to beat the USA team as long as they take their chances. 1-1 Ghana win 2-1 after extra time.
Germany vs England
Germany
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The German side impressed with an opening 4-0 win over ten man Australia, but subsequently lost to Serbia 1-0, and then struggled to overcome a stubborn Ghana side, eventually winning 1-0. The German's attacking is not what people are use to seeing and it has come at somewhat of a shock, but it has somewhat subsided in the last two games. If they regain this form, they can succeed, and beat the English.
Key Man
Miroslav Klose
The German striker is one of the top goalscorers in World Cup finals history, and continued impressing by scoring in the first game. However the 32 year old was sent off in the second game against Serbia for two yellow cards and missed the win against Ghana. He will now be rested and raring to make up for lost time against England. Linking up with Mesut Ozil, will be a deadly combination and one which could damage Fabio Capello's men.
England
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A terrible stuttering first two games in the group, with a needlessly shaky last 20 minutes in the final match made the England term look.. well.. Very English. Poor performances, then one good performance and England have done the hard part, getting out of a relatively easy group. Now they can play with no pressure, and take on an old foe.
Key Man
John Terry
The Chelsea defender has been rock solid for England, and I'm starting to gain a little bit of respect back for the double winning captain. He will need to give his all, as he always does, for the team when they face the Germans in order to combat the free flowing football they have displayed so far. Also of just importance is the goalkeeper David James, who has made the side look a lot more safe and secure with him behind the defence.
Prediction
A battle with the Germans is billed as the big match game, but the English media have not been hyping the match as previous games so far, for the simple reason; the English are the underdogs. This is probably the smartest way to approach the game, as England are underdogs and there is less pressure on them. England to win 1-0 in full time, Wayne Rooney goal.
Argentina vs Mexico
Argentina
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Despite an awful qualifying campaign, Argentina popped up out of nowhere to become everyone's favourite's to collect the trophy once they saw Diego Maradona's attacking options. Diego Milito of Inter Milan, Gonzalo Higiuan of Real Madrid, Martin Palermo of Boca Juniors, Carlos Tevez of Man City, Sergio Aguero of Athleico Madrid and of course Lionel Messi of Barcelona. They finished top of Group B, beating Nigeria, South Korea (convincingly) and Greece to finish the group with maximum points, scoring seven goals and only conceding one goal.
Key Man
Lionel Messi
Currently the best player in the world, he has performed very well in this World Cup so far without really hitting top form. Expect him to unlock a defence if need be, and being single handily able to win a game when required.
Details
Mexico
In a group whereby after the first round of games, it seemed anyone could top it, the Mexicans drew with the host nations South Africa in the opening game, then took advantage of a terrible France team to win 2-0 to book their place in the second round. A final game defeat to Uruguay prevented the Mexicans from topping the group.
Key Man
Giovanni Dos Santos
The young Tottenham player has failed to live up to the hype he received while playing at Barcelona, but started this World Cup really impressively and has used his attacking flair and ability for fashion many chances for the front two.
Prediction
2-1 Argentina win. Mexico are a tricky outfit, and could definitely cause an upset as they have met Argentina many times, and have somewhat of a good understanding of the South Americans. But scoring is not something which Gullie Franco, Carlos Vela and Javier Hernandez have done freely at this tournament. While I believe Argentina could be got at defensively, the attacking prowess should see them through.
Stay tuned for Part Two, which will come on Monday.
Host four years ago, the German side finished in third place with striker Miroslav Klose ending up tournament top goalscorer. This time round the Germans look to go one step further this time round, they began by qualifying top of their group remaining undefeated throughout the campaign. The main news released just last week is that of first choice goalkeeper Rene Adler and centre midfielder Simon Rolfes out of the World Cup completely. Finally the national squad had to comprehend with the death of the man competing for the number one jersey; Robert Enke. The Germans still have the likes of Bastian Schweinsteiger, Phillip Lahm, Mesut Ozil, Lukas Podolski and Mario Gomez leading the charge.
Manager: Joachim Low
Jurgen Klinsmann’s assistant from 2004 through the 2006 World Cup campaign, until he was given the reigns once Klinsmann decided against renewing his contract after 2006. The 50 year old managed Germany to runners up at the 2008 European Championships, and has a well structured set up currently in place, and can expect to be amongst the favourites for the 2010 tournament.
Key Player: Michael Ballack
The German poster boy has played for over 11 years and has 98 caps. The man who wears the number 13 shirt has more runners up medals than any other International, but he is still one of the most vital components to the German machine. One of the most respected midfielders in Europe, expect this to be the 33 year olds last major tournament.
Best Finish: Winners 1954, 1974, 1990
Since 1982, Germany has always at least reached the Quarter Final stage of the World Cup. They are the quintessential big tournament team, and cannot be ignored.
Prediction: Semi-Finals
I expect the Germans to win the group, and the next two games, but fall short once again.
Australia
The best team and highest ranked team (20) outside Europe, Africa and the America’s. The Australian’s had an excellent qualifying campaign, qualifying without losing a single game and only conceding one goal. A lot of the players ply their trade in Europe and are quite well known. The likes of Lucas Neill, Tim Cahill, Mark Bresciano, Vince Grella, Brett Emerton and Harry Kewell are now all on route to Australia’s third World Cup campaign.
Manager: Pim Verbeek
The 54 year old Dutchman has established his managerial career in Holland, and has been assistant manager of different nations include South Korea and United Arab Emirates. Apparently known for his two holding midfielders and lone strikers, they will look to dominate possession and frustrate teams at this year’s tournament.
Key Player: Mark Schwarzer
The Fulham keeper has been sensational this season, helping his side reach the EUROPE League final. The 37 year old has fought off competition from former team mate Brad Jones to still be considered Australia’s number one. Expect him to have a good tournament and be the last line of defence for the Oz. Look out for star midfielder Tim Cahill also.
Best Finish: Second Round
2006, Fabio Grosso’s dive which won them a late penalty, 95th minute in fact, and condemned Australia to defeat. A bitter taste left in the Australian’s mouth, as they will now look to exact revenge.
Prediction: Group Stage
I believe it will be close, but if the Australian’s aren’t up for the fight then they could possibly end up bottom of the group.
Serbia
The White Eagles surpassed all expectations and had a sensational qualifying campaign, finishing top of the group, above the likes of Romania, Austria and most impressively France. Standard Liege striker Milan Jovanovic helped the cause scoring 5 goals through the campaign. Serbia seperated from the dual nation Serbia and Montenegro in 2006 and this is their first World Cup as Serbia itself. The Serbian side boasts an array of exciting players including Branislav Ivanovic, Gojko Kacar, Bosko Jankovic, Dejan Stankovic, Aleksandro Kolarov, Zoran Tosic, Nikola Zigic and many more. They are an exciting nation and have every chance of shining at this World Cup.
Manager: Radomir Antic
The experienced Serbian had established his career in Spain’s La Liga with the likes of Real Zaragoza, Athletico Madrid, Celta Vigo, not to mention both Real Madrid and FC Barcelona. He has the tactical knowhow and has experience working with big name players. He has been in charge of Serbia since 2008.
Key Player: Nemanja Vidic
The Manchester United defender was brilliant in the 2008/09 season, but has been hampered by injury this season. He is still however, regarded as one of the best defenders in Europe, and could probably fit into again team he chooses. A future national team captain.
Best Finish: Fourth Place 1930, 1962 (As Yugoslavia)
Prediction: Group Stage/Quarter Final
It’s a tricky one. The Serbian side has excellent potential and could be dark horses. It’s between them and Ghana to Progress.
Ghana
The West African side have an array of hard working powerful players, and warmed up for the World Cup by finishing as runners-up in the African Cup of Nations. The Black Stars qualified top of their group, 3 points clear on Benin. The squad boasts the likes of captain Stephen Appiah, experienced players such as John Pantsil, John Mensah, Eric Addo, Sulley Muntari and Matthew Amoah. The Ghana side also has some exciting prospects including Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu, Dominic Adiyiah, David Addy and Anthony Annan.
Manager: Milovan Rajevac
Somewhat of a strange appointment, the 56 year old has only managed the big clubs in Serbia, but he has made a good impression so far with the Ghanaians. According to ESPN.com he is a strict manager, fine tactician and has excellent defensive management. The Serbians nationality should add extra spice to the tie with the White Eagles.
Key Player: Michael Essien
The Chelsea midfielder played on one leg in the African Cup of Nations, and has missed most of the season with Chelsea through a knee injury. However he is expected to be fit and make up the extra dynamic in midfield needed to drive Ghana forward. He has 51 caps for Ghana.
Best Finish: Second Round
The finished second in their group at the 2006 World Cup, and had numerous chances to score and cause an upset against Brazil, but unfortunately ended up losing 3-0.
Prediction: Group Stage/Second Round
They are somewhat of an unknown quantity, and the lack of firepower has always been a concern for the Black Stars, but the Ghanaian’s have a strong defence and powerful midfield, can help compete effectively against the likes of Serbia and Australia for second spot.
