Pre-game: New Zealand vs Slovakia (15 Jun 2010)

Match Details
New Zealand-Slovakia, Group F, Rustenburg, Friday 15 June, 16.00 (local time)

This isn’t a high profile game for people outside the country of both New Zealand and Slovakia. Both teams are not expected to make it past the next round but given that they are going up against each other, 3 points being awarded to anyone of them would quickly put them on top of their group.

Slovakia is playing their first World Cup finals game as an independent nation while New Zealand has not been in the World Cup for the last 28 years and their only appearance came in 1982.

Why Slovakia would win?

They are experienced, have more exposure and have deeper talent in their roster led by prolific midfielder Marek Hamsik together with Miroslav Soch and Vladimir Weiss Jnr. Vladimir Weiss is going to be an inspired player on the field as the coach of Slovakia is his father something we don’t see often in sports. Slovakia has a strong attacking offense and could see many shots to the goal from their end.

Why New Zealand would win?

New Zealand’s key to winning the game is on captain Ryan Nelsen of Blackburn Rovers whose defensive skills could make a lot of stops and successful challenges throughout the game. New Ryan Nelsen has a lot of things on his shoulder because another equally talented player in vice-captain Tim Brown is not playing because of shoulder injury.

Key Takeaway

Slovakia is the stronger team and they are looking for win and possibly a draw on their next game that could put them on top of their group. They are motivated as the dark horse in their group. New Zealand is looking for their first even win in the FIFA World Cup. Their first and only other appearance in 1982 saw them losing three times without a win or draw in their scoreboard.

FIFA World Cup Shopping – New Zealand

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FIFA World Cup Shopping – Slovakia

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