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	<title>Premier League blog, soccer news and football shirts from EPL Talk &#187; south africa</title>
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		<title>Watch Every Goal of World Cup 2010 In 10 Minutes: Video</title>
		<link>http://www.epltalk.com/watch-every-goal-world-cup-2010-22095</link>
		<comments>http://www.epltalk.com/watch-every-goal-world-cup-2010-22095#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 13 Jul 2010 17:46:36 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>The Gaffer</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[General]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[south africa]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[World Cup]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.epltalk.com/?p=22095</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[If you’ve got 10 minutes to spare, you can watch this one video which features every single goal scored in the 2010 World Cup in chronological order from Siphiwe Tshabalala for South Africa all the way to Andres Iniesta of Spain. &#8230;]]></description>
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<p><object classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" width="470" height="353" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"><param name="wmode" value="window" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="src" value="http://video.rutube.ru/2ecd1a6e9ffcd6a597047880dd09caa1" /><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /><embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="470" height="353" src="http://video.rutube.ru/2ecd1a6e9ffcd6a597047880dd09caa1" allowfullscreen="true" wmode="window"></embed></object></p>
<p>If you’ve got 10 minutes to spare, you can watch this one video which features every single goal scored in the 2010 World Cup in chronological order from Siphiwe Tshabalala for South Africa all the way to Andres Iniesta of Spain.</p>
<p>The music that accompanies the track is an unknown SID tune composed on a Commodore 64 computer. Enjoy.</p>
<p>HT to our UK friends <a href="http://www.thespoiler.co.uk/" target="_blank">The Spoiler</a> for the vid.</p>
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		<item>
		<title>Where Does This World Cup Rank With The Best?</title>
		<link>http://www.epltalk.com/where-does-this-world-cup-rank-with-the-best-22050</link>
		<comments>http://www.epltalk.com/where-does-this-world-cup-rank-with-the-best-22050#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 12 Jul 2010 16:52:25 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>The Gaffer</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[General]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[poll]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[south africa]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Spain]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[World Cup]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[World Cup 2010]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.epltalk.com/?p=22050</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The 2010 World Cup is over and while it was definitely not the best tournament of all time, there were plenty of highs and lows. In fact, I would argue that it was a better tournament than 2006. The frenzy &#8230;]]></description>
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<p><a href="http://view.picapp.com/pictures.photo/entertainment/sports-news-july-2010/image/9340259?term=world+cup+trophy" target="_blank"><img title="Sports News - July 12, 2010" onmousedown="return false;" src="http://view3.picapp.com/pictures.photo/image/9340259/sports-news-july-2010/sports-news-july-2010.jpg?size=500&amp;imageId=9340259" border="0" alt=" Where Does This World Cup Rank With The Best?" width="500" height="333" /></a><script src="http://view.picapp.com//JavaScripts/OTIjs.js" type="text/javascript"></script></p>
<p>The 2010 World Cup is over and while it was definitely not the best tournament of all time, there were plenty of highs and lows. In fact, I would argue that it was a better tournament than 2006. The frenzy at the end of games such as Uruguay against Holland, Ghana against Uruguay and Italy and Slovakia are just a few examples of how exciting the World Cup was.</p>
<p>But while the World Cup 2010 is still fresh in our minds, where do you think this tournament ranks with the best from the past?</p>
<p>Vote below and let us know which was your favorite World Cup tournament. And feel free to explain why in the comments section below.</p>
<a href="http://polldaddy.com/poll/3461660">Take Our Poll</a>
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		<slash:comments>25</slash:comments>
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		<title>Spain Wins World Cup 2010: In Pictures</title>
		<link>http://www.epltalk.com/spain-wins-world-cup-2010-in-pictures-22010</link>
		<comments>http://www.epltalk.com/spain-wins-world-cup-2010-in-pictures-22010#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 11 Jul 2010 22:32:25 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>The Gaffer</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[General]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Netherlands]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[south africa]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Spain]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[World Cup]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.epltalk.com/?p=22010</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Congratulations to Spain on winning the 2010 World Cup after beating Netherlands 1-0 in extra time after a goal by Andres Iniesta. Here are photographs from this historic day in World Cup history where Spain has won the World Cup &#8230;]]></description>
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<p><a href="http://view.picapp.com/pictures.photo/entertainment/spain-andres-iniesta-lifts/image/9335284?term=world+cup" target="_blank"><img title="Spain's Andres Iniesta lifts the World Cup trophy after their final match victory over Netherlands at Soccer City stadium in Johannesburg" onmousedown="return false;" src="http://view4.picapp.com/pictures.photo/image/9335284/spain-andres-iniesta-lifts/spain-andres-iniesta-lifts.jpg?size=500&amp;imageId=9335284" border="0" alt=" Spain Wins World Cup 2010: In Pictures" width="500" height="712" /></a><script src="http://view.picapp.com//JavaScripts/OTIjs.js" type="text/javascript"></script></p>
<p>Congratulations to Spain on winning the 2010 World Cup after beating Netherlands 1-0 in extra time after a goal by Andres Iniesta.</p>
<p>Here are photographs from this historic day in World Cup history where Spain has won the World Cup for their first time and where they are current holders on both the World Cup and European Championship.</p>
<p>More pictures after the jump:</p>
<p><span id="more-22010"></span></p>
<p><a href="http://view.picapp.com/pictures.photo/entertainment/spain-fernando-torres/image/9335286?term=world+cup" target="_blank"><img title="Spain's Fernando Torres holds up the World Cup trophy as he celebrates with his teammates in Johannesburg" onmousedown="return false;" src="http://view1.picapp.com/pictures.photo/image/9335286/spain-fernando-torres/spain-fernando-torres.jpg?size=500&amp;imageId=9335286" border="0" alt=" Spain Wins World Cup 2010: In Pictures" width="500" height="321" /></a><script src="http://view.picapp.com//JavaScripts/OTIjs.js" type="text/javascript"></script></p>
<p><a href="http://view.picapp.com/pictures.photo/entertainment/spain-gerard-pique-lifts/image/9335288?term=world+cup" target="_blank"><img title="Spain's Gerard Pique lifts the World Cup trophy after the 2010 World Cup final soccer match victory against the Netherlands at Soccer City stadium in Johannesburg" onmousedown="return false;" src="http://view.picapp.com/pictures.photo/image/9335288/spain-gerard-pique-lifts/spain-gerard-pique-lifts.jpg?size=500&amp;imageId=9335288" border="0" alt=" Spain Wins World Cup 2010: In Pictures" width="500" height="817" /></a><script src="http://view.picapp.com//JavaScripts/OTIjs.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <a href="http://view.picapp.com/pictures.photo/entertainment/spain-villa-celebrates/image/9335289?term=world+cup" target="_blank"><img title="Spain's Villa celebrates with the World Cup trophy after their final match victory over Netherlands at Soccer City stadium in Johannesburg" onmousedown="return false;" src="http://view4.picapp.com/pictures.photo/image/9335289/spain-villa-celebrates/spain-villa-celebrates.jpg?size=500&amp;imageId=9335289" border="0" alt=" Spain Wins World Cup 2010: In Pictures" width="500" height="743" /></a><script src="http://view.picapp.com//JavaScripts/OTIjs.js" type="text/javascript"></script></p>
<p><a href="http://view.picapp.com/pictures.photo/entertainment/spain-david-villa-holds/image/9335291?term=world+cup" target="_blank"><img title="Spain's David Villa holds the World Cup trophy after the 2010 World Cup final soccer match between Netherlands and Spain in Johannesburg" onmousedown="return false;" src="http://view1.picapp.com/pictures.photo/image/9335291/spain-david-villa-holds/spain-david-villa-holds.jpg?size=500&amp;imageId=9335291" border="0" alt=" Spain Wins World Cup 2010: In Pictures" width="500" height="293" /></a><script src="http://view.picapp.com//JavaScripts/OTIjs.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <a href="http://view.picapp.com/pictures.photo/entertainment/spain-torres-holds-the/image/9335299?term=world+cup" target="_blank"><img title="Spain's Torres holds the World Cup trophy after the 2010 World Cup final soccer match between Netherlands and Spain at Soccer City stadium in Johannesburg" onmousedown="return false;" src="http://view3.picapp.com/pictures.photo/image/9335299/spain-torres-holds-the/spain-torres-holds-the.jpg?size=500&amp;imageId=9335299" border="0" alt=" Spain Wins World Cup 2010: In Pictures" width="500" height="371" /></a><script src="http://view.picapp.com//JavaScripts/OTIjs.js" type="text/javascript"></script></p>
<p><a href="http://view.picapp.com/pictures.photo/entertainment/spain-torres-and-ramos/image/9335303?term=world+cup" target="_blank"><img title="Spain's Torres and Ramos kiss the World Cup trophy after the 2010 World Cup final soccer match between Netherlands and Spain in Johannesburg" onmousedown="return false;" src="http://view2.picapp.com/pictures.photo/image/9335303/spain-torres-and-ramos/spain-torres-and-ramos.jpg?size=500&amp;imageId=9335303" border="0" alt=" Spain Wins World Cup 2010: In Pictures" width="500" height="635" /></a><script src="http://view.picapp.com//JavaScripts/OTIjs.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <a href="http://view.picapp.com/pictures.photo/entertainment/spain-andres-iniesta-lifts/image/9335308?term=world+cup" target="_blank"><img title="Spain's Andres Iniesta lifts the World Cup trophy after their final match victory over Netherlands at Soccer City stadium in Johannesburg" onmousedown="return false;" src="http://view3.picapp.com/pictures.photo/image/9335308/spain-andres-iniesta-lifts/spain-andres-iniesta-lifts.jpg?size=500&amp;imageId=9335308" border="0" alt=" Spain Wins World Cup 2010: In Pictures" width="500" height="747" /></a><script src="http://view.picapp.com//JavaScripts/OTIjs.js" type="text/javascript"></script></p>
<p><a href="http://view.picapp.com/pictures.photo/entertainment/spain-puyol-celebrates/image/9335305?term=world+cup" target="_blank"><img title="Spain's Puyol celebrates with the World Cup trophy after their final match victory over Netherlands at Soccer City stadium in Johannesburg" onmousedown="return false;" src="http://view3.picapp.com/pictures.photo/image/9335305/spain-puyol-celebrates/spain-puyol-celebrates.jpg?size=500&amp;imageId=9335305" border="0" alt=" Spain Wins World Cup 2010: In Pictures" width="500" height="825" /></a><script src="http://view.picapp.com//JavaScripts/OTIjs.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <a href="http://view.picapp.com/pictures.photo/entertainment/spain-iniesta-celebrates/image/9335311?term=world+cup" target="_blank"><img title="Spain's Iniesta celebrates after scoring against Netherlands during their 2010 World Cup final soccer match at Soccer City stadium in Johannesburg" onmousedown="return false;" src="http://view1.picapp.com/pictures.photo/image/9335311/spain-iniesta-celebrates/spain-iniesta-celebrates.jpg?size=500&amp;imageId=9335311" border="0" alt=" Spain Wins World Cup 2010: In Pictures" width="500" height="289" /></a><script src="http://view.picapp.com//JavaScripts/OTIjs.js" type="text/javascript"></script></p>
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		<slash:comments>11</slash:comments>
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		<title>New Updated ESPN &quot;Power of 10&quot; TV Spot for World Cup</title>
		<link>http://www.epltalk.com/new-updated-espn-power-of-10-tv-spot-for-world-cup-21308</link>
		<comments>http://www.epltalk.com/new-updated-espn-power-of-10-tv-spot-for-world-cup-21308#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 24 Jun 2010 22:04:43 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jake Islas</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[General]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ESPN]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[landon donovan]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[south africa]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wayne Rooney]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[World Cup]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.epltalk.com/?p=21308</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[A couple months before the World Cup, ESPN released a series of 4 TV ads in their “One Game Changes Everything” campaign. If you don’t remember the ads, there was “Robben Island”, “United”, “Power of 10″ and “Passion”, and they &#8230;]]></description>
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<p><object classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" width="560" height="340" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /><param name="src" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/PJ6DmMI83M0&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1&amp;hd=1" /><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /><embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="560" height="340" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/PJ6DmMI83M0&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1&amp;hd=1" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></p>
<p>A couple months before the World Cup, ESPN released a series of 4 TV ads in their “One Game Changes Everything” campaign. If you don’t remember the ads, there was <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yfpngHyiRZc">“Robben Island”</a>, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sXlBSlyU8xY&amp;feature=related">“United”</a>, “<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2wBLWkQLt_4&amp;feature=related">Power of 10″</a> and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-2FRXmjfVaE&amp;feature=related">“Passion”</a>, and they came out in that order separated by about two weeks. The ads really added to the hype and excitement of the tournament several weeks before it began and club football had even finished.</p>
<p>The “Power of 10″ ad showed many of the past greats who have worn the number and have made themselves legends on the World Cup stage, like Pele and Maradona. The ad also showed some of the players who would be wearing the number 10 in this year’s World Cup in South Africa, looking to enshrine their legendary status as well.</p>
<p>Well here we are towards the end of June 2010, with the first round almost complete and some number 10′s already playing huge roles for their nations. I received an email today of a soon to be aired, recently remixed version of the “Power of 10″ ad showcasing the already historic moments thus far from the 2010 FIFA World Cup made by number 10′s from various nations. Included in the ad are Landon Donovan, Diego Forlan, Lucas Podolski, Wesley Sneijder, and Lionel Messi.</p>
<p>It’s been a fantastic World Cup so far, and the number 10′s have certainly stepped it up to lead their teams. I could watch this over and over again, as the Donovan goal against Algeria still gives me goosebumps. I can’t wait to see what he will do next as well as the other great number 10′s. “The number 10 is more than just a number.”</p>
<p>Which number 10 has performed best thus far in the tournament? Which number 10 will ultimately have the biggest impact on the 2010 World Cup when it’s all said and done?</p>
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		<title>The World Cup Summary Week One- How Is Your Team Doing?</title>
		<link>http://www.epltalk.com/the-world-cup-summary-week-one-21004</link>
		<comments>http://www.epltalk.com/the-world-cup-summary-week-one-21004#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 17 Jun 2010 10:57:19 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Kristian Downer</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[General]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Algeria]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Argentina]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[australia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Brazil]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cameroon]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Chile]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Denmakr]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[England]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[France]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Germany]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ghana]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Greece]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Holland]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Honduras]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Italy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ivory Coast]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Japan]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[kristian downer]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mexico]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[New Zealand]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[nigeria]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[North Korea]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Paraguay]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Portugal]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Serbia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Slovakia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Slovenia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[south africa]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[south korea]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Spain]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Switzerland]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[United States]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Uraguay]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[World Cup 2010]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[World Cup Update]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.epltalk.com/?p=21004</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[So the World Cup is now a week old, every team has played at least once. It is now becoming clear whether your team was a sound bet or as dodgy as a Northern Rock balance sheet. There have already been &#8230;]]></description>
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<p style="text-align: left;"><img title="(1)URUGUAY-MONTEVIDEO-SOCCER-WORLD CUP-FANS" onmousedown="return false;" src="http://view2.picapp.com/pictures.photo/image/9135158/uruguay-montevideo-soccer/uruguay-montevideo-soccer.jpg?size=500&amp;imageId=9135158" border="0" alt=" The World Cup Summary Week One  How Is Your Team Doing?" width="500" height="352" /><script src="http://view.picapp.com//JavaScripts/OTIjs.js" type="text/javascript"></script></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">So the World Cup is now a week old, every team has played at least once. It is now becoming clear whether your team was a sound bet or as dodgy as a Northern Rock balance sheet.</p>
<p>There have already been a few surprises, and those following a minnow may have had a nice surprise. Also those struggling can cling to a few strands of hope as no team has been eliminated thus far.</p>
<p>If like me you have a team you know little about in the office sweepstake, or you have just not bothered with the World Cup so far, I have created a quick summary to get you up to speed.</p>
<p><strong>How is your team doing?</strong></p>
<p><strong>Algeria – </strong>A poor start against Slovenia and elimination beckons, unless they pull of a surprise against England. Should Algeria qualify and you live in England you may be forced to change your name, address and seek alternative employment.</p>
<p><span id="more-21004"></span></p>
<p><strong>Argentina</strong><strong> –</strong> In Messi you should trust, Argentina recorded one of the most crushing one nil victories you will ever see, in the first game and eventually ran out comfortable winners agains South Korea.  Blue and white fireworks will surely illuminate this tournament sooner rather than later.</p>
<p><strong>Australia</strong><strong> – </strong>Hammered by Germany and unlikely to progress, the players should start booking their plane tickets home.</p>
<p><strong>Brazil</strong><strong> – </strong>Although they made heavy work of the North Koreans, I would still be happy to have backed Brazil in this tournament. The quality is there for all to see.</p>
<p><strong>Cameroon -</strong> Having lost their opening game, there is a lot left to do if Cameroon are to qualify, hope is not yet lost but I would not back my sweepstake team.</p>
<p><strong>Chile</strong><strong> – </strong>An opening game victory, playing attacking football, what more can you ask for?</p>
<p><strong>Denmark</strong><strong> – </strong>Lost to Holland but not out of it yet, Nicklas Bentdner and others will need to be at the top of their game for the next two games though.</p>
<p><strong>England</strong><strong> – </strong>If you don’t know how they are doing, just google ‘Robert Green’ and all will become clear.</p>
<p><strong>France</strong><strong> </strong>– Started with a draw and this side looks weary, improvement needed from a side that looks devoid of ideas.</p>
<p><strong>Germany</strong><strong> –</strong> Emphatic win against Australia, people are already taking notice of the Germans in this tournament.</p>
<p><strong>Ghana</strong><strong> – </strong>Flying the flag for Africa with an opening game win, this side will receive a lot of coverage in a tournament desperate for African success.</p>
<p><strong>Greece</strong><strong> –</strong> Poor and uninspired, if they cannot improve they will soon be back to the economic turmoil of their homeland.</p>
<p><strong>Holland</strong><strong> </strong>– Won their first game, should progress from their group with ease.</p>
<p><strong>Honduras</strong> – Lost to Chile, things are already looking bleak for one of the teams no one really knows/expects anything from in this tournament.</p>
<p><strong>Italy</strong><strong> – </strong>Had a poor first game which was the ultimate defence vs. defence battle that somehow produced two goals.  After 2006 you should resist the urge to rule out these ageing slow starters.</p>
<p><strong>Ivory Coast</strong><strong> – </strong>After a battling draw against Portugal, Sven’s men need a big win against North Korea, or a miracle against Brazil to progress.</p>
<p><strong>Japan</strong><strong> – </strong>Secured victory in their opening game, they will be hoping to build on this as expectations back home grow.</p>
<p><strong>Mexico</strong><strong> </strong>– Only a draw to start the tournament off, massive improvements will be needed in order to prove they can make a mark on this tournament.</p>
<p><strong>New Zealand</strong><strong> </strong>– The point they got in their opening game was hailed as a miracle for New Zealand, read into that what you like given the opposition was Slovakia.</p>
<p><strong>Nigeria</strong> – Massacred in a 1-0 defeat to Argentina, they will be ok if their goalkeeper keeps up the form he showed in that game.</p>
<p><strong>North Korea</strong><strong> </strong>– Fantastic start, strong favourites to win the tournament, well back home at least. In all seriousness the Koreans showed real passion against Brazil and even got a consolation goal. Unlikely to progress but their compact style may harm the chances of one of the other ‘top’ sides in the group.</p>
<p><strong>Paraguay</strong><strong> –</strong> Secured a great result against the holders, but may need to play with more attacking intent to progress.</p>
<p><strong>Portugal</strong><strong> </strong>– Things just don’t seem right in the Portugal camp, a draw in the opening game is ok, however much more is needed.  Only so much can be done as a one man team.</p>
<p><strong>Serbia</strong><strong> – </strong>Having lost their opening game, the Serbians look to be limping out of the tournament; however there is talent in this side. This will need to shine through if they are to reach the second round.</p>
<p><strong>Slovakia</strong><strong> – </strong>Having failed to beat the worst team in the competition in their first game, I think the Slovakians are finished in the tournament before it has really begun.</p>
<p><strong>Slovenia</strong><strong> – </strong>Top of England’s group with a win, Slovenia have a real chance to upset the apple cart and qualify ahead of the USA or England in group C.</p>
<p><strong>South Africa</strong><strong> – </strong>Full of heart and with their nation behind them, it looks like this will not be enough to help Bafana Bafana progress. Two gutsy displays have not made up for a lack of discernable talent, only a win against France and a miracle will see them through to the next stage.</p>
<p><strong>South Korea – </strong>After winning their first game in an impressive fashion, the Koreans will dream of a repeat of 2002 or even better. Combining a strong work ethic with touches of flair. Despite  losing to Argentina, this team has the potential to have a stellar World Cup.</p>
<p><strong>Spain</strong><strong> – </strong>The favourites lost their opening match to Switzerland, potentially setting up a second round tie with Brazil. Still not out of the running, their Rolls Royce midfield engine needs to start ticking over, and fast.</p>
<p><strong>Switzerland</strong><strong> – </strong>After beating Spain this team must feel on top of the world, the second round may be their target, but they have certainly already made their mark on the competition.</p>
<p><strong>United States</strong><strong> </strong>– Brilliant result if not performance against England, confidence must be at an all time high. Slovenia must not be underestimated though and Friday’s game will be key to their campaign.</p>
<p><strong>Uruguay</strong><strong> – </strong>Almost through to the next round, they looked good against France and South Africa. Manchester United fans may not recognise the Diego Forlan of this World Cup compared to his days in England as he fires Uruguay forwards in the competition.</p>
<p>So this is where we stand after one week, in the next few days the group pictures will become a lot clearer and we may start to lose teams.</p>
<p>If you have backed Brazil or Germany you should be very happy with your investment, those following Slovenia, Switzerland, Chile or Uruguay may have been pleasantly surprised by last weeks games.</p>
<p>As we move forwards every team still technically in with a shout, each team is now  just 6 games from immortality.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Kristian-Downer-Football-Writer/320158561195"><strong>MORE FROM THIS WRITER</strong></a></p>
<p><a href="http://epltalktoolbar.ourtoolbar.com/"><strong>FOLLOW THE WORLD CUP WITH THE FREE EPL TALK TOOLBAR</strong></a></p>
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		<title>South Africa v Mexico, 2010 World Cup: Open Thread</title>
		<link>http://www.epltalk.com/south-africa-v-mexico-2010-world-cup-open-thread-20788</link>
		<comments>http://www.epltalk.com/south-africa-v-mexico-2010-world-cup-open-thread-20788#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 11 Jun 2010 12:43:51 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>The Gaffer</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[General]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Efan Ekoku]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ESPN]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Martin Tyler]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mexico]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[south africa]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[World Cup]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.epltalk.com/?p=20788</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Finally. It. Is. Here. The 2010 World Cup kicks off today with the first match up between South Africa and Mexico. I’m picking South Africa and Mexico to draw in this one. Mexico should win, but buoyed by the incredible &#8230;]]></description>
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<p><a href="http://view.picapp.com/pictures.photo/entertainment/feature/image/9085112?term=south+africa" target="_blank"><img title="Feature" onmousedown="return false;" src="http://view2.picapp.com/pictures.photo/image/9085112/feature/feature.jpg?size=500&amp;imageId=9085112" border="0" alt=" South Africa v Mexico, 2010 World Cup: Open Thread" width="500" height="310" /></a><script src="http://view.picapp.com//JavaScripts/OTIjs.js" type="text/javascript"></script></p>
<p>Finally. It. Is. Here. The 2010 World Cup kicks off today with the first match up between South Africa and Mexico.</p>
<p>I’m picking South Africa and Mexico to draw in this one. Mexico should win, but buoyed by the incredible support of the South African nation, I think the South Africans will rise to the occasion and grab an equalizer.</p>
<p>Before, during and after the opening game of the 2010 World Cup between South Africa and Mexico, feel free to share your insight and opinions in the comments section below.</p>
<p>Of course, I’m particularly interested in seeing how ESPN does in terms of their broadcast. <a href="http://www.epltalk.com/espn-announces-commentator-assignments-for-2010-world-cup-coverage/20012" target="_blank">ESPN commentators</a> today will be Martin Tyler and Efan Ekoku.</p>
<p>I’ll be at <a href="http://www.worldcupbuzz.com/wowies" target="_blank">Wowies in Boca Raton</a> watching the match. I’m looking forward to meeting you in person, so feel free to stop by. Wowies is at 7036 W. Palmetto Park Road, Boca Raton, FL 33433.</p>
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		<title>ESPN Releases &quot;Power of 10&quot; World Cup Ad</title>
		<link>http://www.epltalk.com/espn-releases-power-of-10-world-cup-ad-19278</link>
		<comments>http://www.epltalk.com/espn-releases-power-of-10-world-cup-ad-19278#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 07 May 2010 16:08:36 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jake Islas</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[General]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ESPN]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[south africa]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[World Cup 2010]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.epltalk.com/?p=19278</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[ESPN has released its third commercial for its “One Game Changes Everything” World Cup Campaign.  The video above titled “Power of 10″ has hit the airways today showcasing all the best players to have ever worn the number, as well &#8230;]]></description>
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<p><object classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" width="560" height="340" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /><param name="src" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/2wBLWkQLt_4&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1&amp;rel=0" /><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /><embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="560" height="340" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/2wBLWkQLt_4&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1&amp;rel=0" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></p>
<p>ESPN has released its third commercial for its “One Game Changes Everything” World Cup Campaign.  The video above titled “Power of 10″ has hit the airways today showcasing all the best players to have ever worn the number, as well as those looking to impact the tournament this summer. Two weeks ago ESPN released the second ad titled “<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sXlBSlyU8xY">United</a>”  which followed the first commercial in the campaign titled <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yfpngHyiRZc">“Robben Island”</a>.  With the tournament now less than 35 days away, be on the lookout for the final spot, “Passion”, to hit ESPN in the coming weeks.</p>
<p>Who is your favorite number 10 of all-time? Which number 10 do you think will make the biggest difference this summer and become a World Cup legend?</p>
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		<title>5 Reasons World Cup South Africa Will Be the Best</title>
		<link>http://www.epltalk.com/5-reasons-world-cup-south-africa-will-be-the-best-18444</link>
		<comments>http://www.epltalk.com/5-reasons-world-cup-south-africa-will-be-the-best-18444#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 22 Apr 2010 11:29:30 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jake Islas</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[General]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ESPN]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ESPN3]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[FIFA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[iPad]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[iphone]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[south africa]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[World Cup]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.epltalk.com/?p=18444</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The 2010 world cup in South Africa looks promising to be the best yet.  There’s huge quantities of talent spread out across the Groups.  In addition to the football being played on the pitch, here are five reasons this summer’s &#8230;]]></description>
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://view.picapp.com/default.aspx?term=world cup south africa&amp;iid=8578268" target="_blank"><img src="http://cdn.picapp.com/ftp/Images/d/6/5/2/World_Cup_trophy_802a.jpg?adImageId=12608852&amp;imageId=8578268" border="0" alt=" 5 Reasons World Cup South Africa Will Be the Best" width="380" height="612" title="5 Reasons World Cup South Africa Will Be the Best" /></a></div>
<p><script src="http://cdn.pis.picapp.com/IamProd/PicAppPIS/JavaScript/PisV4.js" type="text/javascript"></script> The 2010 world cup in South Africa looks promising to be the best yet.  There’s huge quantities of talent spread out across the Groups.  In addition to the football being played on the pitch, here are five reasons this summer’s world cup will be the best yet for the fans.</p>
<p><strong>1. HD</strong> - The beautiful game in High Definition is truly a remarkable thing to see.  Any football enthusiast will tell you the difference between standard definition and HD is night and day. World Cup 2006 was the first to be shown in HD, but it was rare.  It was far less common for someone to own an HD television than it is now as they were more expensive and people had yet to see a need.  HD programming was not yet easily available to everyone, let alone on ESPN.  It was more common on the networks, which is why World Cup 2006 games being seen in HD were mostly on ABC .  HD was still in the beginning stages just four years ago.</p>
<p><strong>2. DVR and Tivo</strong> – Similar to #1, DVR’s and Tivo’s were far less common in 2006. World Cup matches are on during typical work hours on weekdays.  While I think the world should be allowed the month off, and I’m sure other football fans will agree, it’s not possible for everyone to watch the matches live.  So we’ll just have to be content with getting through the day to come home and watch the recorded matches. Your spouse will understand (hopefully).</p>
<p><strong>3. Familiarity and Knowledge</strong> - Football fans, especially in the United States, are exponentially more exposed to football and the leagues around the world than we were 4 years ago.  Thanks to ESPN, Fox Soccer, GOLTV, and Setanta we have been able to follow leagues overseas like never before.  We take these things for granted now, but it was far more difficult just four years ago to do this.  This means we are much more familiar and knowledgeable of the players of the 32 countries competing this summer. Not only do we get to see the most popular players more often, but we have the ability to be familiar with the lesser known players.  It won’t just be the Ronaldo’s, Messi’s, and Rooney’s that grab our attention this summer, but our relationship with the De Jong’s, Assou-Ekotto’s, and Song’s will be just as appreciated.</p>
<p><strong>4. Location</strong> – This World Cup is the first to be played in the continent in the history of the competition.  I can only imagine the sense of pride this brings to the 5 African national teams competing to do well, including the host country which has the potential to advance.  South Africa will also be a great venue for the World Cup because 6 of the 10 stadiums hosting the matches have been completed or renovated in the last 2 years, giving fans a new and unique atmosphere throughout the tournament.</p>
<p><strong>5. Devices </strong>- Technology has given us the ability to get more involved with the World Cup.  ESPN3 has given us the ability to watch the matches from our computers and even on replay later. <a href="http://proxy.espn.go.com/mobile/products/product?id=3242441">ESPN Mobile TV</a> streams games to our cell phones, iPads and iPhones (via <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/mobitv/id361804568?mt=8">Mobi TV</a>), or <a href="http://www.flotv.com">FLOTV</a> devices. ESPN has also launched an official <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/espn-2010-world-cup/id342370555?mt=8">World Cup app</a> that brings news, updates, and stats for everything World Cup. EA Sports has come out with the official <a href="http://fifa-world-cup.easports.com/home.action">2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa</a> video game available on April 27th, putting you in the tournament.</p>
<p>Technology has come a long way in the last four years.  I can’t even imagine what World Cup 2014 will bring us.  Why do you think World Cup South Africa 2010 will be the best?</p>
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		<title>Chaos and Tragedy Strike The African Cup Of Nations</title>
		<link>http://www.epltalk.com/chaos-and-tragedy-strike-the-african-cup-of-nations-14670</link>
		<comments>http://www.epltalk.com/chaos-and-tragedy-strike-the-african-cup-of-nations-14670#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 10 Jan 2010 13:46:14 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Paul Bestall</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[General]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[African]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Angola]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bus]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cabinda]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[competition]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cup]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[decision]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Emanuel Adebayor]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Emmanuel Adebayor]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[enclave]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[football]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[game]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[government]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Italy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kolo Toure]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lome]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mali]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Manchester City]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mark]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[miracle]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Norway]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[party]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[rebel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Security]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[south africa]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[team]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Togo]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Togolese]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[tournament]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tragedy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[wisdom]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.epltalk.com/?p=14670</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The news started coming through early on Saturday morning and as the information became clearer, it was soon apparent that the whole African Cup Of Nations would now be tainted. When the dust had settled, 3 members of the Togo &#8230;]]></description>
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<p><img class="aligncenter" src="http://www.epltalk.com/wp-content/uploads/babskarbet.files.wordpress.com/sys-images/Football/Pix/pictures/2010/1/9/1263049381203/Togo-players-001.jpg" alt="Togo players 001 Chaos and Tragedy Strike The African Cup Of Nations" width="460" height="276" title="Chaos and Tragedy Strike The African Cup Of Nations" /></p>
<p>The news started coming through early on Saturday morning and as the information became clearer, it was soon apparent that the whole African Cup Of Nations would now be tainted. When the dust had settled, 3 members of the Togo party were dead and several were seriously injured. Angolan rebels had attacked the team bus as it drove through the dangerous territory of Cabinda. It is no exaggeration to say that it is a miracle that no-one else was killed.</p>
<p>As of now, the Togolese team have now been pulled out by the Togo government and are awaiting a flight back to the capital Lome. After the initial attack, the team were unanimous in their decision that they wanted to pull out, but after discussions yesterday, the team wanted to continue in the competition to honour the dead members of the party. <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2010/jan/10/togo-prime-minister-calls-national-team" target="_blank">The Togolese government however had other ideas.</a></p>
<p><span id="more-14670"></span></p>
<p><img class="alignleft" src="http://www.epltalk.com/wp-content/uploads/babskarbet.files.wordpress.com/2009/04/adebayor-togo.jpg" alt="adebayor togo Chaos and Tragedy Strike The African Cup Of Nations" width="267" height="400" title="Chaos and Tragedy Strike The African Cup Of Nations" />With second choice goalkeeper <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2010/jan/10/togo-goalkeeper-intensive-care" target="_blank">Dodji Obilale airlifted to South Africa for treatment</a> for his injuries, the government feel it would be inappropriate to continue. CAF, the African Confideration, were determined to keep Togo in, but in all honesty, I found it quite galling that the team seemed to be getting pressure to stay in the competition. I understand the teams wishes that they would like to stay to use this incident but I don’t feel that after this, anyone’s mind will be on football in the Togo camp.</p>
<p>There are so many questions that need to be answered, why were they allowed to drive through a known Angolan rebel enclave? Why did no-one know they were going to drive, rather than fly as all the other teams did? Why didn’t they have an escort? It is such a mess of miscommunication and bad organisation that as I said, how no-one else died is a miracle. The team bus was sprayed with machine gun fire for almost half an hour until the rebels ran off.</p>
<p>Emanuel Adebayor, as team captain , <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2010/jan/10/togo-prime-minister-calls-national-team" target="_blank">has led the interviews with everyone since the tragedy and was instrumental in the decision</a> that saw the team decide they wished to continue as a mark of respect. Yet, no-one can understand what it must be like to survive such a thing and then be expected to play football. It is only a game.</p>
<p>Of course, this now, quite rightly throws doubt on the security of the whole tournament. The Rebel group responsible, Front for the Liberation of the Enclave of Cabinda or FLEC, have promised that this is only the beginning of an orchestrated campaign that has been planned to coincide with the African Cup Of Nations. The critics who questioned the wisdom of awarding the competition to Angola in the first place will be quick to point out that concerns were raised 4 years ago. This, they say, was a disaster waiting to happen.</p>
<p>Worries that this could<a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2010/jan/09/world-cup-south-africa-danny-jordaan-security" target="_blank"> impact on South Africa are wide of the mark</a>, Angola is 1500 miles away. It is like comparing a tragedy in Norway having an impact in Italy. It has no merit for comparison. If anything, this will now strengthen the resolve for South Africa to be on the ball throughout the build up to the tournament. Security of the fans and participants will now be crucial for the success of the competition and the future of African footballs position in the world game.</p>
<p>The tournament will continue tonight with Angola kicking off against Mali but it has certainly been tainted. The wisdom of continuing the tournament will be under scrutiny from here on in and everyone will be hoping that the tragedy will be the last incident in a dark day for African football. I truly hope everything else goes to plan.</p>
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		<title>African Cup Of Nations Begins The Year With A Bang in Angola</title>
		<link>http://www.epltalk.com/african-cup-of-nations-begins-the-year-with-a-bang-in-angola-14481</link>
		<comments>http://www.epltalk.com/african-cup-of-nations-begins-the-year-with-a-bang-in-angola-14481#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 05 Jan 2010 00:32:53 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Paul Bestall</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[General]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[A.C.O.N]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Abedi Pele]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[Amr Zaki]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[Freddie Kanoute]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[George Weah]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ghana]]></category>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.epltalk.com/?p=14481</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[So, if the only time you’ve ever come across this tournament is when certain Premiership managers whine about it, let me welcome to you to one of World Football’s best kept secrets. Over the years, the African Cup Of Nations &#8230;]]></description>
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<p><img class="aligncenter" src="http://www.epltalk.com/wp-content/uploads/championsleaguetalk.com/imageserve/0a9P6FSdVmaT2/610x.jpg" alt="610x African Cup Of Nations Begins The Year With A Bang in Angola" width="450" height="295" title="African Cup Of Nations Begins The Year With A Bang in Angola" /></p>
<p>So, if the only time you’ve ever come across this tournament is when certain Premiership managers whine about it, let me welcome to you to one of World Football’s best kept secrets. Over the years, <a href="http://www.cafonline.com/competition/african-cup-of-nations-angola_2010/" target="_blank">the African Cup Of Nations </a>has grown and grown to be one of the most respected tournaments in World Football. So, as the tournament kicks off in Angola on Sunday, welcome to an overview for the 27th competition.</p>
<p>The influx into European football of African players over the last 20 years has seen the profile of this once derided competition rise far above what even the most biased supporter of African football could have hoped for. My first experience of seeing an African side was Algeria’s incredible defeat of West Germany in 1982 and as I’ve watched football, its reputation has grown and grown. Now it’s a fantastic tournament and one you really need to catch so here’s who to look out for in my first article about it.</p>
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<p>This year’s tournament is being held in Angola for the first time and as such will give us the first glimpse of some of the teams who have also qualified for the World Cup in June this year.16 teams participate in the finals, drawn in to groups of four, with quarter finals, semi finals, a 3rd/4th play off and the final.Running over 20 days, this looks set to be the biggest African Cup of Nations yet.</p>
<p>The qualification for this years tournament also doubled up as qualification for the World Cup, which saw the odd spectacle of South Africa entered even though they’re the World Cup hosts along with Angola to try and earn a double qualification. Ironically, Angola haven’t qualified for the World Cup and South Africa failed to reach the African Cup of Nations.</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter" src="http://www.epltalk.com/wp-content/uploads/championsleaguetalk.com/w/i/pes/a/a0/IvoryCoast_Team_L.jpg" alt="IvoryCoast Team L African Cup Of Nations Begins The Year With A Bang in Angola" width="488" height="211" title="African Cup Of Nations Begins The Year With A Bang in Angola" /></p>
<p>Favourites for the second tournament in a row are of course Didier Drogba’s Ivory Coast but in 2008 they were humiliated in the semi final by Egypt 4-1. They’ll be desperate to try and add to their solitary title won in 1992.With a squad featuring the Toure brothers, Drogba, Eboue, Zakora and Dindane, they’ll certainly be there or there abouts, The Elephants will be certainly one of the teams to beat. Drawn in Group B they’ll be one of the two fancied teams in that group.</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter" src="http://www.epltalk.com/wp-content/uploads/championsleaguetalk.com/yahoo_site_admin/assets/images/Black_Star_line_up.87174500.jpg" alt="Black Star line up.87174500 African Cup Of Nations Begins The Year With A Bang in Angola" width="500" height="307" title="African Cup Of Nations Begins The Year With A Bang in Angola" /></p>
<p>The other side in Group B with ambitions to win the tournament will be the Black Stars of Ghana. Ghana are a team that we should have seen so much more of over the last 20 years, especially as they gave us one of the greatest ever African players of all time, in Abedi Pele, who like George Weah of Liberia never made it to a World Cup. They finished 3rd last time, so they’ll be desperate to go at least one better but they lack a clinical striker.  With Michael Essien, John Mensah, Kingson, Addo and Amoah in the squad they’ll try and cope with the loss of talismanic captain Stephen Appiah and <a href="http://www.goal.com/en/news/815/african-nations-cup/2009/12/24/1707613/african-nations-cup-mixed-reactions-over-sulley-muntaris-absence-" target="_blank">Sulley Muntari’s enforced passing over</a>.</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter" src="http://www.epltalk.com/wp-content/uploads/championsleaguetalk.com/telegraph/multimedia/archive/01537/algeria-1_1537672i.jpg" alt="algeria 1 1537672i African Cup Of Nations Begins The Year With A Bang in Angola" width="448" height="280" title="African Cup Of Nations Begins The Year With A Bang in Angola" /></p>
<p>Group A should be a walk in the park for one of England’s forthcoming <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/africa/8367431.stm" target="_blank">World Cup opponents, Algeria</a>. With a fine international pedigree, they’ll be in with an outside shout of getting to the last four this time round. Since bursting on to the world stage in the 1982 World Cup, Algeria have lost their way a little since following it up with qualification for the 1986 World Cup and winning the A.C.O.N in 1990.</p>
<p>Since winning that title, they’ve been disqualified once, gone out in the first round three times and failed to qualify since 2004. Familiar names to watch out for in the Desert Foxes team are Hassan Yebda and Nadir Belhadj of Portsmouth, Kamel Ghilas of Hull City, Hamuer Bouazza formerly of Fulham and Madjid Bougherra of Rangers. They need a good tournament to reaffirm their place in African football.</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter" src="http://www.epltalk.com/wp-content/uploads/championsleaguetalk.com/gi/Egypt+v+Algeria+FIFA2010+World+Cup+Qualifier+KDVj6DDI_a5l.jpg" alt="Egypt+v+Algeria+FIFA2010+World+Cup+Qualifier+KDVj6DDI a5l African Cup Of Nations Begins The Year With A Bang in Angola" width="444" height="291" title="African Cup Of Nations Begins The Year With A Bang in Angola" /></p>
<p>Group C sees the power of African football, Egypt and the former star, Nigeria drawn together. Egypt who were pipped for World Cup qualification by Algeria, which saw such <a href="http://www.football.co.uk/portsmouth/zaki_cites_israeli_presence_at_fratton_park_as_reason_for_shun_rss269998.shtml" target="_blank">scenes of sportsmanship for them</a>, have a lot to live up to . As defending champions since 2006, it remains to be seen just how much of a hangover they’ve retained from missing out on South Africa. Yet, without the injured Amr Zaki and the unpicked Mido, Egypt would seem to have it all to do to retain the trophy. Spurs fans will certainly remember Hossan Ghaly and Dortmunds Mohamed Zidan is one to watch for the Pharaohs.</p>
<p>Nigeria qualified for both Angola and South Africa, but they are not the side they once were. The Super Eagles were one of the key sides in African football’s modern growth but the generation that got them there are slowly retiring. Yet the squad is still packed with familiar names. Yobo, Yakubu, Kanu, Obi-Mikel, Martins, Shittu, Taiwo, Etuhu and Olofinjana will all be in the squad and will be looking to try and re-affirm their place at the head of modern African football. An outside chance of winning the title certainly.</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter" src="http://www.epltalk.com/wp-content/uploads/championsleaguetalk.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/05/samuel_etoo.jpg" alt="samuel etoo African Cup Of Nations Begins The Year With A Bang in Angola" width="451" height="306" title="African Cup Of Nations Begins The Year With A Bang in Angola" /></p>
<p>Which leads us to another favourite, the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon. Lead by one of the worlds greatest strikers, Samuel Eto’o, Cameroon have been one of Africa’s leading lights over the last two decades. After missing out for the 2006 World Cup, they were in danger of missing out on both tournaments this year, but after sacking the manager, former Rangers, Lyon and Paris Saint Germain manager Paul Le Guen rode to the rescue.</p>
<p>Surprisingly though, Le Guen has opted not to pick the impressive <a href="http://worldcup.sportinglife.com/story/0,27111,17337_5794929,00.html" target="_blank">Sebastain Bassong for the tournament</a> but joining Eto’o will be Rigobert Song, Geremi, Alexandre Song, Jean Makoun and Andre Bikey. If they can keep Eto’o up the field, then anything can happen and after the 2006 penalty <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/africa/4675316.stm" target="_blank">shoot out marathon against Ivory Coast</a> and losing the last A.C.O.N final on penalties, they’ll be hoping to avoid more shootout heartache.IN Carlos Kameni, they’ve probably got the best goalkeeper in Africa. He could be key.</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter" src="http://www.epltalk.com/wp-content/uploads/championsleaguetalk.com/ph/img/53/be/659b38154c760a8c3abf5ea86d93-grande.jpg" alt="659b38154c760a8c3abf5ea86d93 grande African Cup Of Nations Begins The Year With A Bang in Angola" width="468" height="335" title="African Cup Of Nations Begins The Year With A Bang in Angola" /></p>
<p>So they’re the main 6 contenders, but there are two outsiders that may catch the eye. Imagine a team with a midfield of Seydou Keita of Barcelona, Real Madrid’s Mahamadou Diarra and Juventus’s Momo Sissoko with Freddie Kanoute upfront. Well, that’s Mali’s main foursome and with a squad with a wealth of European experience and the Eagles have a team with bags of potential still unfulfilled. Of course, Togo also qualified and whilst the side seem to lack quality overall, if a certain Emmanuel Adebayor fancies it, then the Sparrow Hawks could cause some real shocks.</p>
<p>So there you have it. Over here in Europe, Eurosport will be showing every match, with the BBC disappointingly only showing the semi finals and final this time. If you’ve never watched it before, I recommend it highly and it’ll give you a real taste of what’s to come in June this year when the World Cup gets underway. I’ll be dropping another more articles throughout the month for you to keep up to speed with the tournament, so feel free to leave me your comments and questions.</p>
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