FIFA WORLD CUP 2010: Day 9 (19 June 2010)

NETHERLANDS 1 - JAPAN 0

The Dutch do it again, without too much flair. Japan are the next victims to the accursed Jabulani ball, with goalkeeper Kawashima making a hash of Wesley Sneijder's stinger. The Oranje go through, while Japan needs to beat the Danes next.

AUSTRALIA 1 - GHANA 1

The Ozzies have another man sent off - this time its Harry Kewell for an unintentional handball. They gain a handy single point whilst the Black Stars cannot finish them off. An unlikely win was even possible, but Luke Wilkshire shot straight into the Ghana's Kingson. Australia aren't out of it yet. Rating: 3.5/5

DENMARK 2 - CAMEROON 1

Like Nigeria before them, Cameroon blow a one goal lead and look likely to be eliminated. Very good goals from Bendtner and Rommedahl make the difference, while Eto'o's miss thanks to the crossbar looks very costly now. Rating: 3.5/5

FIFA WORLD CUP 2010: Day 4 (14 June 2010)

NETHERLANDS 2 - DENMARK 0

Missed this as I had opted to watch The Karate Kid with my son instead. No big loss and it wasn't the biggest of surprises. An own goal and Kuyt strike after some a good run by debutant Elia. Holland should top this group unless Japan and Cameroon can change things. Rating: N.A.

JAPAN 1 - CAMEROON 0

Cameroon were disappointing, with Samuel Et'oo employed out of position. Japanese defence was solid, and capitalised on a defensive lapse to score the only goal from Honda. Predictable headlines expected, so I'll add my own "HONDA MOTORS JAPAN TO THREE POINTS". Let's see what they can do against in Dutch. Rating: 3/5

ITALY 1 - PARAGUAY 1

World Champions my foot! The Azzuri are just not good enough to retain the Cup. Paraguay scored first and hung on till De Rossi's equaliser. Both goals came from set-pieces. New Zealand or Slovakia might just go top of this group. Rating: 2.5/5