The so-called big teams at the World Cup are finding the going rough in the early rounds. Spain, Germany and England have all been brought down to earth by their recent results. Spain were stunned by the Swiss 1-0 earlier in the week. But the shock of the week was yesterday when Germany was beaten by Serbia 1-0, and then later in the day England were held to a 0-0 draw by Algeria.


Germany and Spain can still make it out of their group, but it will be tough going. Whereas England face a must win situation in their final game. The World Cup this year has proven to be one of the best. No team can assume that their name will carry them through, it will take hard work. While some teams fixate on the concept that the 'ball' used by FIFA at this World Cup is bad, it should be noted that all teams face the same dilemma. Yes, the ball is one of the worse to be ever used at the World Cup, but we have seen some stunning     
goals scored so far. 


The matches today may also provide some surprises. The Netherlands face Japan in a Group E top of the table clash, which will provide a clear indication of the worth of the Dutch, one slip and they may join the ranks of the heavily favored teams who have succumbed to the pressure of the World Cup. Ghana face Australia, and they should have take this assignment lightly, yes Germany beat Australia 4-0, but teams bounce back, especially when they know they must win to stay in the tournament. Ghana must enter this game with the same level of discipline and courage that they showed against Serbia.


In the other game of the day, Cameroon meets Denmark. Cameroon must win if they are to stay in contention. Both teams lost their opening games, and know that only a win will be good enough at this point.


My predictions:


Netherlands vs Japan 1-1
Ghana vs Australia 2-0
Cameroon vs Denmark 2-1