2010 World Cup Spain Roster | WORLD CUP 2010

2010 World Cup Spain Roster | WORLD CUP 2010

Name	Age	Position
1	Iker Casillas	29	Goalkeeper
12	Victor Valdés	28	Goalkeeper
23	Pepe Reina	27	Goalkeeper
2	Raúl Albiol	24	Defender
3	Gerard Piqué	23	Defender
4	Carlos Marchena	30	Defender
5	Carles Puyol	32	Defender
11	Joan Capdevila	32	Defender
15	Sergio Ramos	24	Defender
17	Álvaro Arbeloa	27	Defender
6	Andrés Iniesta	26	Midfielder
8	Xavi	30	Midfielder
10	Cesc Fábregas	23	Midfielder
14	Xabi Alonso	28	Midfielder
16	Sergio Busquets	21	Midfielder
20	Javi Martínez	21	Midfielder
21	David Silva	24	Midfielder
22	Jesús Navas	24	Midfielder
7	David Villa	28	Attacker
9	Fernando Torres	26	Attacker
13	Juan Mata	22	Attacker
18	Pedro	22	Attacker
19	Fernando Llorente	25	Attacker

2010 World Cup Germany Roster | WORLD CUP 2010

2010 World Cup Germany Roster | WORLD CUP 2010

Name	Age	Position
1	M. Neuer	24	Goalkeeper
12	T. Wiese	28	Goalkeeper
22	H. Butt	36	Goalkeeper
2	M. Jansen	24	Defender
3	A. Friedrich	31	Defender
4	D. Aogo	23	Defender
5	S. Taşçı	23	Defender
14	H. Badstuber	21	Defender
16	P. Lahm	26	Defender
17	P. Mertesacker	25	Defender
20	J. Boateng	21	Defender
6	S. Khedira	23	Midfielder
7	B. Schweinsteiger	25	Midfielder
8	M. Özil	21	Midfielder
15	P. Trochowski	26	Midfielder
18	T. Kroos	20	Midfielder
21	M. Marin	21	Midfielder
9	S. Kießling	26	Attacker
10	L. Podolski	25	Attacker
11	M. Klose	32	Attacker
13	T. Müller	20	Attacker
19	J. Claudemir da Silva	29	Attacker
23	M. Gómez	24	Attacker

Worldcup 2010 Group H : Spain

Spain

Coach: Vicente del Bosque

Vicente del Bosque is the current head coach of Spain and he replaced Luis Aragones after Spain's Euro 2008 success. Vicente del Bosque is heavily linked to Real Madrid both as a player and manager. He made over 300 appearances for the club and also managed them on two seperate occasions between 1994 and 2003!

World Cup 2010 Qualifying:

Spain matched the feats of England and Netherlands, qualifying for the 2010 World Cup with two qualifying group matches to spare thanks to a workmanlike 3-0 defeat of Estonia in Merida. Cesc Fabregas, Santi Cazorla and Juan Mata got the goals to make it eight straight wins for the European champions, with Bosnia-Herzegovina's 1-1 draw with Turkey ensuring their smooth progress to the finals for the ninth straight time. Spain midfielder Cesc Fabregas: "This goal is very important for me, especially for the confidence it gives me. It's a pleasure to play with these players and in front of these fans. Eight wins out of eight, not many countries can say that."

Past World Cup Performance:

Spain have qualified for 13 World Cup tournaments in their history and their best performance to data has been 4 Quarter Final appearances in 1934, 1986, 1994 and 2002. Spain also hosted the 1982 World Cup but bowed out in the second Group Stage following defeat by West Germany. On several occasions Spain have entered the World Cup as one of the tournament favourites but to date they have under acheived despite having some great players over the years. In 1986, Spain defeated an in-form Denmark 5-1 to reach the Quarter Finals and hopes were high before they quietly exited on penalties against Belgium. However, that breakthrough the Spanish were looking for finally came after they clinched Euro 2008 by beating Germany 1-0 in Vienna! Spain enter World Cup 2010 as the number 1 ranked team in the World and current European Champions. They will face Chile, Honduras and Switzerland in Group H in what looks to be a great draw for the tournament favourites! Despite having a poor record in past World Cup's it looks like Spain will be the team to beat in South Africa this summer!

Spain - Key Players

Fernando Torres - Liverpool

David Villa - Valencia

Cesc Fabregas - Arsenal

Andres Iniesta - Barcelona

Xavi - Barcelona

Worldcup 2010 Group H : Switzerland

Switzerland

Coach: Ottmar Hitzfeld

Ottmar Hitzfeld is a former German former football player and currently holds the position as coach of the Swiss national football team.

World Cup 2010 Qualifying:

Switzerland got the point they needed to qualify in their final match against Israel but not without a struggle - Ottmar Hitzfeld's side were hanging on even after their hosts had Avihay Yadin sent off after 59 minutes. The Swiss had gone on an eight-match unbeaten run after a surprise defeat by Luxembourg to reach the finals. Switzerland coach Ottmar Hitzfeld: "The goal was to qualify and we made it - the goal is achieved. Compliments to the whole team and to each and every player. It's another success for me and a dream being fulfilled, it's a present that Switzerland has given me."

Past World Cup Performance:

Switzerland's best performances in the World Cup have been reaching the quarter-finals three times, in 1934, 1938 and when the country hosted the event in 1954. In Germany 2006, Switzerland set a World Cup record by being eliminated from the competition despite not conceding a goal, losing to Ukraine in a penalty shootout in the last 16. Switzerland also co-hosted Euro 2008 with Austria, making their third appearance in that competition. As with the two previous appearances, they did not clear the group stages. The Swiss are currently ranked 18th in the World Standings and will face tournament favourites Spain, Honduras and Chile in Group H.

Switzerland - Key Players

Philippe Senderos - Arsenal

Alexander Frei - Basel

Gokhan Inler - Udinese

Worldcup 2010 Group G : Portugal

Portugal

Coach: Carlos Queiroz

Carlos Queiroz is the current Head Coach of Portugal. He is known as a world class coach and prior to his appointment with Portugal he enjoyed two successful spells as assistant manager to Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United and also a less successful spell as manager of Real Madrid.

World Cup 2010 Qualifying:

Despite having Cristiano Ronaldo, the reigning World Player of the Year, in their ranks, Portugal made hard work of qualifying. They were languishing in fourth in Group One at one stage before a late rally earned them second and a play-off berth. Without the injured Ronaldo they secured a place in South Africa thanks to two hard-fought 1-0 victories over Bosnia-Hercegovina. Portugal coach Carlos Queiroz said "Bosnia are a good team but Portugal are too strong for them because we have an explosive combination of confidence, desire and determination. I must congratulate my team for a spirited performance, while Bosnia will have gained respect after getting this far and proving to be stiff opponents."

Past World Cup Performance:

It's a surprise to learn that South Africa 2010 will only be Portugal's 4th appearance at the World Cup Finals. Their best performances to date came in 1966 where Eusebio inspired them to a semi final appearance before two goals from Bobby Charlton sent England to the final following a 2-1 victory. Portugal repeated their semi final appearance in Germany 2006 under the management of "Big" Phil Scolari where they lost 1-0 to France following a Zinedine Zidane penalty in the 33rd minute. In the previous round, Portugal got the better of England after a penalty shoot out and plenty of controversy. Wayne Rooney was sent off for England in the 62nd minute after an apparent stamp on Ricardo Carvalho. The incident occurred right in front of Argentine referee Horacio Elizondo, who was urged on by the Portugal players - including Rooney's then Manchester United team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo who famously was caught on camera "winking" at the Portuguese bench after the dismissal! Portugal are currently ranked 6th in the world and despite a poor qualification performance they will be hopeful of getting past Brazil, Ivory Coast and North Korea. It looks like their match against the Ivory Coast on June 15th will be the key game and a victory will likely see Ronaldo and co progress into the knockout stages!

Portugal - Key Players

Cristiano Ronaldo - Real Madrid

Simao Sabrosa - Athletico Madrid

Nani - Manchester United

Joao Moutinho - Sporting Lisbon

Ricardo Carvalho - Chelsea

Worldcup 2010 Group H : South Africa

Chile

Coach: Marcelo Bielsa

Marcelo Bielsa is the current Head Coach of Chile. Bielsa previously managed Argentina at World Cup 1998 and 2002.

World Cup 2010 Qualifying:

Chile reached South Africa courtesy of a 4-2 victory over Colombia, and they were indebted to substitute Jorge Valdivia who scored one goal and created the other three. It is Chile's first appearance at the World Cup finals since 1998. Chile captain Claudio Bravo: "It was our mission to change the face of Chilean football. It was an exceptional campaign, based on discipline, consistency, confidence and belief. But this isn't the summit, we can achieve great things and will work to do so."

Past World Cup Performance:

Chile have appeared in seven World Cup tournaments and were hosts of the 1962 World Cup finishing in third place. South Africa 2010 will be the first World Cup appearance of Chile since 1998 and they will face Spain, Honduras and Switzerland in a tough looking Group H. After an excellent qualifying campaign under Bielsa hopes will be high that Chile will justify their current World Ranking of 14th and progress in the tournament.

Chile - Key Players

Claudio Bravo - Real Sociedad

Mark Gonzalez - CSKA Moscow

Matias Fernandez - Sporting Lisbon

Worldcup 2010 Group H : Honduras

Honduras

Coach: Reinaldo Rueda

Reinaldo Rueda Rivera is the current Head Coach of the Honduras national football team and was appointed in 2006. The Honduran National Team are nicknamed Los Catrachos!

World Cup 2010 Qualifying:

A 1-0 victory over El Salvador and a crucial last-minute goal by the United States against Costa Rica clinched Honduras' their place in South Africa. It is only the second time they have qualified for the finals, the other being in 1982. On qualifying for World Cup 2010 Honduras coach Reinaldo Rueda said "Today it's the Honduras fans and their team's turn to celebrate, thanks to the work of many years. Now we have months of work, months of matches and let's hope this victory works out for the good of all."

Past World Cup Performance:

Honduras will be making their second World Cup appearance in South Africa with their only previous qualification coming in 1982 where they failed to clear the Group Stage following two defeats and one draw. Honduras have been handed a tough draw in Group H of the World Cup where they will face Spain, Chile and Switzerland but with several European based players including Suazo, Palacios and Figeuroa they could cause a few upsets!

Honduras - Key Players

David Suazo - Inter Milan

Wilson Palacios - Tottenham Hotspur

Worldcup 2010 Group G : Brazil

Brazil

Coach: Dunga

The Head Coach of Brazil is Carlos Caetano Bledorn Verri or simply known to everyone in football as Dunga! He was a midfield stalwart of the Brazilian national team for many years and lifted the World Cup in 1994 when Captain. Dunga has been in charge of the Brazilian team since July 2006 when he replaced Carlos Alberto Parreira.

World Cup 2010 Qualifying:

Brazil are the only team to have appeared in every World Cup finals and they made sure that record would continue in the best possible fashion, beating their bitter rivals Argentina 3-1 on their home turf. Two goals from striker Luis Fabiano and another from defender Luisao was enough as they inflicted only the second home defeat in World Cup qualifiers on Diego Maradona's struggling side. Brazilian coach Dunga was quoted "We're happy. We beat a great team with great champions. Lionel Messi might be the best player in the world. We beat Argentina, which had not lost a match at home in qualifying."

Past World Cup Performance:

Put simply Brazil are the most successful nation in World Cup history with a record 5 wins in 1958, 1962, 1970, 1994 and 2002! Over the years they have graced the football field with many of the games biggest stars and entertained us with their unique style of play. As the popular saying goes about the beautiful game "The English invented it, the Brazilians perfected it." 1958 saw Brazil lift their first World Cup in Sweden and it was here that the world saw the emergence of a raw 17 year old talent called Pele who went on to be arguably the games greatest ever player. A second World Cup triumph followed 4 years later but this time Garrincha was the star man after Pele suffered injury in their first match against Mexico. Brazil won their third World Cup in Mexico in 1970 where they fielded what is considered to be the best football squad ever. Led by Pele in his last World Cup finals, captain Carlos Alberto, Jairzinho, Tostao, Gerson and Rivelino were at times mesmerizing! After winning the Jules Rimet Trophy for the third Brazil were allowed to keep it for good. Despite having some wonderful players during the 1970's and 1980's it was a long 24 year wait for Brazil before they next made the World Cup Final. Inspired by Romario and Bebeto Brazil met Italy in the Final where the game ended 0-0 and went to a penalty shootout. Brazil sealed their fourth World Cup after the tournaments star player Roberto Baggio missed the vital spot kick for Italy. In 1998 Brazil made the final once again but were beaten 3-0 by hosts France. The match will always remembered for the controversy before kick-off regarding star striker Ronaldo who was believed to have suffered a seizure. Ronaldo did make the team but was unable to stop Zinedine Zidane leading the French to victory. Brazil's fifth World Cup win came in 2002 where the three "R's" Ronaldo, Ronaldinho and Rivaldo led the Samba Kings to a 2-0 victory over Germany with Ronaldo scoring both goals! At World Cup 2010 Brazil have been drawn in Group G against Portugal, Ivory Coast and North Korea and will enter the tournament as the world number 2 ranked team behind Spain. Success at the World Cup is what the Brazilian nation demands and the pressure will be on Dunga to deliver a sixth World Cup win in South Africa!

Brazil - Key Players

Kaka - Real Madrid

Lucio - Inter Milan

Robinho - Santos (On loan from Man City)

Daniel Alves - Barcelona

Luis Fabiano - Sevilla

Worldcup 2010 Group G : Ivory Coast

Ivory Coast

Coach: Sven-Goran Eriksson

Veteran coach Sven-Goran Eriksson has been selected to lead the Ivory Coast national team during the 2010 World Cup. He is well know for his time as Head Coach of Lazio and of course the England national team...WAG's and all!

World Cup 2010 Qualifying:

Ivory Coast drew 1-1 with Malawi in Blantyre to become the second African side to reach the 2010 World Cup in South Africa from the qualifiers. Chelsea's Didier Drogba came on as a substitute to score the crucial equalising goal for the visitors after Jacob Ngwira's opener. The Ivorians, who have 13 points from five matches, have an unassailable lead at the top of qualifying Group E. On qualifying Ivory Coast striker and captain Didier Drogba said "I am very happy indeed because Ivory Coast is going to the World Cup for the second time."

Past World Cup Performance:

The Ivory Coast made their first appearance at a World Cup at Germany 2006 when they were drawn against Argentina, the Netherlands and Serbia and Montenegro. Despite some good performances where they beat Serbia and Montenegro 3-2 they failed to clear the Group Stage following two 2-1 defeats to Argentina and the Dutch. The Ivory Coast are currently 20th in the World Rankings and will face a tough draw at World Cup 2010 in Group G against Brazil, Portugal and North Korea. Will their Captain and inspirational striker Didier Drogba be able to lead his talented team known also as "The Elephants" to the knockout stages this time around?

Ivory Coast - Key Players

Didier Drogba - Chelsea

Kolo Toure - Manchester City

Yaya Toure - Barcelona

Emmanuel Eboue - Arsenal

Saloman Kalou - Chelsea

Worldcup 2010 Group G : North Korea

North Korea

Coach: Kim Jong-Hun

The current Korea DPR team is managed by Head Coach Kim Jong-Hun. He will take a squad of home-grown players as well as Korean players who were born and bred in Japan to South Africa for World Cup 2010.

World Cup 2010 Qualifying:

Iran's failure to defeat South Korea in Seoul meant North Korea only needed to draw in their final group match against Saudi Arabia in Riyadh. They did exactly that, with a 0-0 result, putting them into their first World Cup finals since 1966. Coach Kim Jong-Hun: "It was so hot in Saudi Arabia and as you know the journey from Korea was long, but our belief in the ability of the players snatched the ticket to South Africa."

Past World Cup Performance:

North Korea have only appeared at one previous World Cup, that was in 1966 at the World Cup hosted by England. North Korea's most famous result came at Ayresome Park, when North Korea upset Italy 1-0 to gain a spot in the Quarter Finals. There, they went 3-0 up against the mighty Portugal before the brilliance of Eusebio (and his four goals) stopped the fairy tale run, with the match finishing 5-3 in favour of Portugal. North Korea are currently ranked 84th in the World Standings and have been given a really tough draw at World Cup 2010, they will meet Brazil, Portugal and the Ivory Coast in Group G!

North Korea - Key Players

Ahn Yong-Hak

Hong Yong-Jo

Jong Tae-Se

Worldcup 2010 Group F : Slovakia

Slovakia

Coach: Vladimir Weiss

Vladimir Weiss is the Head Coach of the Slovak National Team and has been so since 2008. On 14 October 2009, he led the team to the historic success of Slovakia's first-ever qualification for the World Cup!

World Cup 2010 Qualifying:

Slovakia qualified for their first World Cup finals after beating Poland 1-0 to finish top of Group Three thanks to a third-minute own goal by Seweryn Gancarczyk and some key saves from Jan Mucha. Slovakia coach Vladimir Weiss said "We played well in these qualifiers, we were lucky today but we've also put a lot of heart into the game. People deserved this and I'm glad that we made Slovaks happy."

Past World Cup Performance:

Slovakia will participate in the World Cup for the first time in their history in South Africa and also for the first time as an independent nation following their split from the Czech Republic. They will bring with them some quality players in their squad including the likes of Martin Skrtel and Marik Hamsik. Slovakia have been drawn in Group F against Italy, New Zealand and Paraguay and look to have a decent chance of making the next round!

Slovakia - Key Players

Martin Skrtel - Liverpool

Marek Hamsik - Napoli

Robert Vittek - Lille

Worldcup 2010 Group F : Italy

Italy

Coach: Marcello Lippi

Marcello Lippi is the current Head Coach of the Italian national team and he has steered the defending champions to South Africa. This is Lippi's second spell in charge of Italy. He famously led them to World Cup 2006 glory when they beat France 5-3 in a penalty shoot-out. Lippi then quit 3 days later but came back in 2008 after Roberto Donadoni failed to impress.

World Cup 2010 Qualifying:

Italy sealed the chance to defend their world title in South Africa in dramatic fashion, equalising in the last minute in Ireland to snatch a 2-2 draw and top spot in Group Eight. Mauro Camoranesi cancelled out Glenn Whelan's opener for Ireland, but Sean St Ledger's goal looked to be taking the group to the final round of matches until Alberto Gilardino's decisive late goal. Italy striker Alberto Gilardino said "The game was tight until the end. And qualifying for the World Cup, this is even more beautiful. We deserved the draw. When they scored to make it 2-1, we were not attentive. Thank goodness we equalised."

Past World Cup Performance:

The Azzuri as Italy are known are among the top teams in international football and the second most successful national team in the history of the World Cup having won four titles in 1934, 1938, 1982 and 2006, just one fewer than Brazil. Italy first won the World Cup in 1934 when they hosted the tournament and again in 1938 in France just before the outbreak of the Second World War. Despite some strong performances in the following years it wasn't until the World Cup in Spain 1982 that Italy reigned as World Champions once again. The image of Marco Tardelli's legendary shouting and arm-pumping goal celebration is one of the classic World Cup moments as Italy beat Germany 3-1 in the final! Italy's Paolo Rossi won both the Golden Boot as the tournament's top goalscorer, and the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player and 40-year-old captain-goalkeeper Dino Zoff became the oldest-ever player to win the World Cup. In Germany 2006, Italy became Champions once again when they beat an ageing French team inspired by Zinedine Zidane. The game ended in a 1-1 draw in normal time and moved into extra time where Zidane in the final game of his career head-butted Marco Materazzi in the chest in an off-the-ball incident and was sent off! The match went to a penalty shoot-out and after David Trezeguet missed the advantage was with the Italian's. Fabio Grosso stepped up and scored the winning penalty for the Azzuri. The green, white and red ticker tape images of Fabio Cannavaro lifting the World Cup trophy aloft will live long in the memory for many football fans around the world! Italy have been drawn in World Cup Group F and will face New Zealand, Paraguay and Slovakia in what looks a great draw for the reigning Champions! Italy are renowned as slow starters in every major tournament but their record suggests they could easily go deep into the tournament once again and put up a great defence of their title!

Italy - Key Players

Gianluigi Buffon - Juventus

Andrea Pirlo - Milan

Daniele De Rossi - Roma

Alberto Gilardino - Fiorentina

Fabio Cannavaro - Juventus

Worldcup 2010 Group F : Paraguay

Paraguay

Coach: Gerardo Martino

Gerardo Martino is the current Head Coach of Paraguay, a position he has held since February 2007. Martino is from Argentina and made two appearances for their National Team with a playing career that saw success at Newell's Old Boys.

World Cup 2010 Qualifying:

Paraguay secured their place at a fourth-straight World Cup finals with two games to spare after a 1-0 win over Argentina. Nelson Valdez's goal earned his side victory over Diego Maradona's struggling outfit in the South American qualifying group as Paraguay joined Brazil in qualifying for South Africa in 2010. Paraguay coach Gerardo Martino: "In the national team, you work for two possibilities - you can work for having a job or for making history. I want to work for the second option."

Past World Cup Performance:

South Africa 2010 will be Paraguay's 8th World Cup appearance with the last 16 being the furthest they have reached on 3 occasions in 1986, 1998 and 2002. Paraguay are currently ranked 29th in the World Standing's and will meet current Champions Italy as well as New Zealand and Slovakia in Group F. A 4th appearance in the last 16 looks a definite possibility if Paraguay play to their potential!

Paraguay - Key Players

Nelson Valdez - Borussia Dortmund

Edgar Barreto - Atalanta

Justo Villar - Real Valladolid

Worldcup 2010 Group F : New Zealand

New Zealand

Coach: Ricki Herbert

Ricki Herbert is the current head coach of New Zealand. Ricki is a former New Zealand football player who represented his country at the 1982 World Cup in Spain. As well as leading the national team he is also the coach of the NZ A-League club side Wellington Phoenix.

World Cup 2010 Qualifying:

The Kiwis sealed a berth at only their second World Cup finals with a 1-0 aggregate play-off victory over Bahrain, winning the second game in Wellington in front of a New Zealand record football crowd of 35,100 thanks to Rory Fallon's header just before half-time. On qualifiying New Zealand coach Rickie Herbert was quoted "We've all worked hard, we all backed the system that we truly believe was good enough to win it and they've gone and done it. Tonight is about these boys, about a group who believed and have never stopped believing, and their dream continues which is fantastic."

Past World Cup Performance:

South Africa 2010 will see the second appearance of New Zealand national team at a World Cup. Their only other qualification came in 1982 where they lost 5-2 to Scotland, 3-0 to the former USSR and 4-0 to Brazil. New Zealand are currently 83rd in the World Standings, which is the lowest team ranking at the 2010 World Cup. They will face Italy, Paraguay and Slovakia in Group F and face a massive uphill task to make the next stage.

New Zealand - Key Players

Ryan Nelson - Blackburn Rovers

Chris Killen - Middlesbrough

Chris Wood - West Brom

Rory Fallon - Plymouth Argyle

Worldcup 2010 Group E : Denmark

Denmark

Coach: Morten Olsen

Morten Olsen is the Head Coach of the Danish National Team and was appointed in 2000. He has successfully guided Denmark to the 2002 World Cup, Euro 2004 and will lead the Danes at World Cup 2010 in South Africa!

World Cup 2010 Qualifying:

Denmark reached their first major tournament since the 2004 European Championship courtesy of a 1-0 win over rivals Sweden in Copenhagen. Midfielder Jakob Poulsen's low, long-range strike in the 79th minute was enough to see off second-placed Sweden and ensure the Danes progression with one round of games remaining in Group One. Head Coach of Denmark Morten Olsen said "We played a better game so our win was well deserved. All the players who have been on the team have been fantastic."

Past World Cup Performance:

Denmark made their first World Cup appearance at the 1986 World Cup in Mexico. With the legendary attacking duo of Michael Laudrup and Preben Elkjaer the team swept through the Group Stages and hopes were high after a 6-1 thrashing of Uruguay! In the second round the Danes faced Spain and were on the receiving end of a 5-1 beating which included 4 goals from Emilio Butragueno! Despite failing to qualify for the 1990 and 1994 World Cup's, Denmark won the European Championships in 1992 and their next World Cup qualification came in 1998 under the guidance of the Swedish Coach Swede Bo "Bosse" Johansson. The Laudrup brothers Michael and Brian were instrumental as the Danes made the Quarter Finals where they went out following a close 2-3 loss to eventual finalists Brazil! Denmark also qualified for World Cup 2002 and once again cleared the Group Stage and made the last 16 before a 3-0 defeat by England ended their tournament. After failing to qualify for the 2006 World Cup Morten Olsen considered his position as Head Coach but his decision to stay was vindicated as he successfully guided Denmark to their 4th World Cup Finals. Denmark are currently ranked a respectable 33rd in the World Standings and have been drawn against the Netherlands, Cameroon and Japan in the colourful Group E at World Cup 2010. Progress to the knockout stages looks a definite possibility for Morten Olsen's team and they will hope to find the spirit of 1992 once again!

Denmark - Key Players

Daniel Agger - Liverpool

Simon Kjaer - Palermo

Christian Poulsen - Juventus

Jon Dahl Tomasson - Feyenoord

Nicklas Bendtner - Arsenal

Thomas Sorensen - Stoke City

Worldcup 2010 Group E : Japan

Japan

Coach: Takeshi Okada

Takeshi Okada (born 25 August 1956 in Osaka, Japan) is a former Japanese football player and currently the Head Coach for the Japanese National Team. He also coached Japan at the 1998 FIFA World Cup.

World Cup 2010 Qualifying:

Takeshi Okada's Japan became the first team to book their place after earning a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Uzbekistan in Tashkent. Shunji Okazaki grabbed the only goal of the game after nine minutes to book a fourth successive finals berth. On qualifying Head Coach Takeshi Okada said "We played very well. I think we should continue playing this style in the remaining matches."

Past World Cup Performance:

Japan narrowly missed a ticket to the 1994 World Cup after failing to beat Iraq in the final match of the qualification round, remembered by fans as the Agony of Doha. The nation's first World Cup appearance was in 1998, where they lost all three matches. Japan's first two fixtures went 1-0 in favor of Argentina and Croatia, despite Japan playing well in both games. Their campaign ended with an unexpected 2-1 defeat to rank outsiders Jamaica. Four years later, Japan co-hosted the 2002 World Cup with South Korea. Despite being held to a 2-2 draw by Belgium in their opening game, the Japanese team advanced to the second round with a 1-0 win over Russia and a 2-0 victory against Tunisia. However, they subsequently exited the tournament during the Round of 16, after losing 1-0 to eventual third-place finishers Turkey. On June 8, 2005, Japan qualified for the 2006 World Cup in Germany, their third consecutive World Cup apperance by beating North Korea 2-0 in Bangkok, Thailand. However, Japan failed to advance to the Round of 16 after finishing the Group Stage without a win, losing to Australia 1-3, drawing Croatia 0-0 and then losing to Brazil 1-4. Japan are currently ranked 43rd in the World Rankings and they have been drawn in a tough looking Group E alongside the Netherlands, Denmark and Cameroon.

Japan - Key Players

Junichi Inamoto - Rennes

Shunsuke Nakamura - Espanyol FC

Shinji Ono - Bochum FC

Worldcup 2010 Group E : Netherlands

Netherlands

Coach: Bert van Marwijk

Bert van Marwijk is the current Head Coach of the Dutch national team, he replaced Marco Van Basten after Euro 2008. In 1982, he began his transition into coaching after retiring as a player in 1988. In 2002, he won the UEFA Cup with Feyenoord and is also the father-in-law of Bayern Munich and Dutch midfielder Mark van Bommel!

World Cup 2010 Qualifying:

The Dutch won 2-1 away to Iceland to become the first European side to qualify for the World Cup 2010 tournament. Goals from Nigel de Jong and Mark van Bommel put Bert van Marwijk's team in the driving seat before Kristjan Orn Sigurdsson pulled a goal back. On qualifing Bert van Marwijk said "My goal was to qualify for the finals so now we have a year to prepare. Winning six straight World Cup qualifiers deserves a compliment."

Past World Cup Performance:

The Dutch national team's greatest moments were back in the 1970s. Under coach Rinus Michels, they finished runners-up in the 1974 FIFA World Cup as a team boasting the great Johan Cruyff and Johan Neeskens lost 2-1 to the hosts Germany. Four years later in Argentina they made it to the final again, losing out 3-1 to the host country in Buenos Aires to become the first back-to-back runners-up. As reigning European champions, the Netherlands looked set for glory at Italia 90, but despite the presence of international stars such as Ruud Gullit, Ronald Koeman, Frank Rijkaard and Marco van Basten, they came unstuck in the second round against Germany. Despite being currently ranked 3 in the World Standings the Dutch have often flattered to deceive at major tournaments in recent years but they possess some World Class players and they are capable of beating any team and going all the way at World Cup 2010. The Netherlands have been drawn in World Cup Group E in what looks to be a very colourful affair with the red of Denmark, blue of Japan, green of Cameroon and of course the famous orange of the Netherlands!

Netherlands - Key Players

Robin Van Persie - Arsenal

Arjen Robben - Bayern Munich

Klaas-Jan Huntelaar - AC Milan

Dirk Kuyt - Liverpool

Worldcup 2010 Group E : Cameroon

Cameroon

Coach: Paul Le Guen

Former French International Paul Le Guen is the current coach of Cameroon and will lead them at the 2010 World Cup.

World Cup 2010 Qualifying:

Cameroon avoided drama on the last day of qualification as their 2-0 win in Morocco rendered Gabon's result in Togo meaningless. Goals from Achille Webo and Samuel Eto'o sent the Indomitable Lions to the World Cup for the sixth time - a new African record. Cameroon were bottom of their group after two games, before Paul Le Guen took over as manager from Otto Pfister. On qualifying Cameroon coach Paul Le Guen said "The key has been the talent of the players. We didn't undergo a dramatic change of personnel but I wanted to change the team dynamic. I wanted them to want to come and play for the national team and I sought to give them the best conditions possible."

Past World Cup Performance:

Cameroon will make a record sixth appearance for an African nation in this summer's World Cup finals in South Africa. The Lions made their World Cup debut in 1982 and have made the finals every year since barring 1986 and 2006. Cameroon's World Cup highlight has to be in 1990 when not only did they upset holders Argentina in the first match of the tournament beating them 1-0, but they went on to beat Romania and Colombia to make the quarter finals. Inspired by an ageing Roger Milla Cameroon eventually lost out in extra-time of their quarter final with England. Since 1990, Cameroon have failed to get out of the group stages of the World Cup finals. They have however won two African Cup of Nations in this time and lost in the final in 2008. Cameroon have been drawn in World Cup Group E with the Netherlands, Denmark and Japan.

Cameroon - Key Players

Samuel Eto'o - Inter

Geremi - Newcastle United

Jean Makoun - Lyon

Stephane Mbia - Marseille

Sebastian Bassong - Tottenham Hotspur

Alexandre Song - Arsenal

Worldcup 2010 Group D : Germany

Germany

Coach: Joachim Loew

Joachim Loew nicknamed Jogi Loew is the Head Coach of Germany and replaced Jurgen Klinsmann after the 2006 World Cup. Despite having limited top level managerial experience Loew has proven himself by taking Germany to the Euro 2008 final and now qualifying for the 2010 World Cup.

World Cup 2010 Qualifying:

Germany have not missed a World Cup finals since 1950 and that record was extended as they booked their place with a 1-0 win away to their group rivals Russia. Miroslav Klose's 35th-minute strike clinched the win and saw Germany, who played the last 22 minutes with 10 men after Jerome Boateng was sent off, win the group with one round of matches remaining. Germany coach Joachim Loew said "We said from the start that we wanted to play for a win here, and so go forward. Of course we had a bit of luck in some situations, one has to say that."

Past World Cup Performance:

Germany are one of the world's most successful national football teams having won a total of three World Cups, they have also been runners-up on four occasions. Germany won the World Cup in 1954, 1974 and 1990 and over the years they have produced some of the world's greatest players including the likes of Franz Beckenbauer, Gerd Muller, Lothar Matthaus, Jurgen Klinsmann and many more! The 1954 World Cup Final saw the former West Germany defeat the mighty Hungary 3-2 to lift the Jules Rimet trophy. In 1974, West Germany led by Beckenbauer overcame Cruyff's Holland 3-2 in the final with Gerd Muller scoring the winning goal. In 1990, Beckenbauer was again to lead Germany to World Cup victory but this time as coach where they beat Maradona's Argentina 1-0 in one of the worst World Cup Finals ever played! Germany are currently ranked 5th in the World and have been drawn in World Cup Group D along with Australia, Ghana and Serbia. It is worth noting that German striker Miroslav Klose has scored 10 goals in the last two World Cup's and if Germany show their usual tournament form then he could be a great bet for the Golden Boot in South Africa!

Germany - Key Players

Michael Ballack - Chelsea

Miroslav Klose - Bayern Munich

Bastian Schweinsteiger - Bayern Munich

Lukas Podolski - FC Koln

Worldcup 2010 Group D : Serbia

Serbia

Coach: Radomir Antic

Since 2008 Radomir Antic has been the Head Coach of the Serbian National Team. A vastly experienced manager Antic is the only individual who has managed Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Atletico Madrid. Also, Antic is one of only two men to have managed both Barcelona and Real Madrid!

World Cup 2010 Qualifying:

Serbia beat Romania 5-0 in Belgrade to earn automatic qualification for the 2010 World Cup as unassailable leaders of European qualifying Group Seven. Nikola Zigic gave the Serbs a half time lead before they hammered home their superiority after the break through goals from Marko Pantelic, Zdravko Kuzmanovic and a Milan Javanovic double. Serbia coach Radomir Antic was quoted "I'm extremely happy, as we sealed a World Cup spot in style. If we continue like this in South Africa, we will be a power to reckon with at the World Cup."

Past World Cup Performance:

2010 will mark the nations first appearance at a World Cup as Serbia. Until 2002 Serbia competed as part of the former Yugoslavia and at World Cup 2006 they competed as Serbia and Montenegro. In 1962 competing as Yugoslavia the team finished 4th and 3 Quarter Final appearances came in 1954, 1958 and 1990. In 1994, the team was banned from participating at the World Cup because of international sanctions imposed due to the Yugoslav wars. Serbia are currently ranked 13th in the world and will meet Germany, Australia and Ghana in Group D. Under the guidance of Antic, Serbia's strong qualification record and squad of top European based players means they could easily cause a few upsets and progress far into the tournament in South Africa!

Serbia - Key Players

Nemanja Vidic - Man United

Branislav Ivanovic - Chelsea

Dejan Stankovic - Lazio

Nikola Zigic - Valencia