Jon Karlsson
What: 2010 FIFA World Cup
Who: New Zealand vs Slovakia (Group F)
When: Tuesday 15th June, 2010, at 12:30 UK Time
Where: Royal Bafokeng Stadium, Rustenburg, South Africa
Springing a Surprise?
New Zealand arrive at the World Cup as huge outsiders and no-one, save a few die-hard fans, expect them to trouble the knockout stage. However, if avoiding humiliation and competing is the name of the game then the All Whites could yet surprise a few teams. The squad are also aware of the importance of the meeting with Slovakia. With Italy and Paraguay making up the group numbers it is hard to see where a win could come from if it doesn’t come here. A fact which key striker Chris Killen appreciates: "I think this is one of the biggest games in New Zealand football history. The first game is massively important and we need to get something out of it."
Making Up for Lost Time
Slovakia have had to wait for the chance to make a real impact on the world stage, being overshadowed by their neighbours and long time country compatriots, the Czech Republic. Recently though, coach Vladimir Weiss has started to build a competitive outfit, featuring a host of very capable players. The news that Liverpool defender Martin Skrtel has returned to training and should be ready to start against the Kiwis is a big boost. Make no mistake, Slovakia know that they too, just like New Zealand, really need to be taking three points from this opener.
Recent form
New Zealand:
Serbia 0-1 New Zealand (29/05; Friendly)
Slovenia 3-1 New Zealand (04/05; Friendly)
Chile 2-0 New Zealand (09/06; Friendly)
Slovakia:
Slovakia 0-1 Norway (03/03; Friendly)
Slovakia 1-1 Cameroon (29/05; Friendly)
Slovakia 3-0 Costa Rica (05/06; Friendly)
Players to watch
New Zealand – Chris Killen: Middlesbrough striker Killen will be crucial should New Zealand wish to grab the three points here. With a defence that will struggle to keep many clean sheets, the emphasis is on the forwards to at least offset that a little. Killen’s experience of scoring at international level (11 goals for the All Whites so far) may be key to taking the few chances that come New Zealand’s way.
Slovakia – Marek Hamsik: The Napoli star should already be something of a household name, especially following some superb displays in Serie A, displays which caught the attention of many European giants. The midfielder is no less critical to Slovakia and they will be looking for him to unlock the New Zealand defence. Well capable of scoring too, Hamsik can lead Slovakia to three points.
Match prediction
New Zealand retain hope of being able to surprise at the World Cup and if Slovakia underestimate them then a shock cannot be ruled out. After all, New Zealand did beat Serbia in a World Cup warm-up friendly. However, Slovakia have some fine talents and should be able to grab the win. It might not be pretty, New Zealand might set out to frustrate, but Slovakia will find a way through and win 1-0.
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