Didier Drogba may start for Ivory Coast
Today the heavy hitters come out on to the 2010 World Cup stage today when Brazil and Italy get involved in their involved in their group matches.
Five times World champions, Brazil are already are in position to advance to the Last 16, while the status of four-time champions, Italy, is uncertain. Oh, and throw African team Ivory Coast in as well.
Italy vs New Zealand
The Azzurri meet New Zealand (in Nelspruit) in their second game. The Azzurri put in a disjointed performance against Paraguay in their opening contest of the 2010 World Cup, having to come from behind to snatch a 1-1 draw.
Few sides shone in their first fixture and it would be foolish to write the Italians off so soon, but they will be well aware of the need to raise their game.Italy’s biggest concern heading into the game regards the fitness of goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon.
Brazil vs Ivory Coast
As we Africans are quickly running out of teams that may just get into the final 16, we are holding out for Cote de Ivore and a one-armed Drogba – cast and all. After all that is better than no Didier Drogba, isn’t it?
Sven Goran Eriksson’s African side are arguably the finest of the continent’s teams, and they will be relying on the fitness of star striker Didier Drogba to give them the cutting edge in attack. He may even start despite his injury.
So we have the Brazillians hoping for a win over Ivory Coast (in Johannesburg) in Group G ., which will boost them into the second round.
Predictions for Today’s Matches – Group E and Group F
I went to peek at my friend Mikes blog to see his predictions for today – he is a footy writer from England - so take a look at his predictions for
Group E and Group F games featuring Italy, Brazil and the Ivory Coast
Slovakia takes on Paraguay in the other Group F match (in Bloemfontein).
Popularity: 2% [?]
[...] Brazil, Ivory Coast and Italy to Play in Group Matches today in … [...]