Brazil too strong for Chile

A quick fire brace of first half goals helped Brazil overcome Chile 3-0 and so, finally reduce the South American contingent in South Africa from five, to four.

A bullet header from Juan set the wheels in motion after 34 minutes, the centre half working himself into a unmarked position and emphatically converted the corner from Maicon into the roof of the net.

Just as they did upon conceding in their last game against Spain. Chile panicked and composure in possession and defence was lost. It took Brazil just four minutes to double their lead and deliver a hammer blow to Marcelo Bielsa's side.

Robinho exposed some newly discovered space on the left flank and cut back to Kaka who, instinctively, slotted through a pass to Luis Fabiano. The Sevilla front man first, timed his run to perfection. Beating the offside trap before, nervelessly rounding Claudio Bravo and finishing.

Led by Lucio, Brazil were imperious in defence, easily able to soak up the pressure and attack intermittently on the break. Robinho put the game beyond all doubt on 59 minutes, curling a shot from the edge of the box after a breathtaking forward burst from Ramires.

Right from the off, Brazil tried to impose their great history in this competition upon Chile. Incisive passages of play led to early chances not taken by Fabiano, Gilberto SIlva and Kaka.

Las Rojas fought back in their own inimitable style, but from set-pieces, Brazil looked the more likely to turn attacks into goals and their double tap came on 34 and 38 minutes. But prior to that, frustration had threatened to curtail their progress to a sixth World Cup.

Kaka was harshly booked, Maicon appealed for a free kick and Lucio for a penalty, but Howard Webb thought both had tumbled too easily to punish Chile.

Maicon's response to the disappointment was exemplary, a pinpoint corner finding Juan, who opened the scoring. That goal was a lightning rod to the doubt within the Chilean players. Just minutes later they were torn apart by Robinho, Kaka and Fabiano, who had all marauded into the six yard box by the time the latter had hit the back of the net to give his side a comfortable 2-0 half time lead.

To begin the second period, Bielsa, the man known as "El Loco," sent on even more attacking players. Tello and Valdivia's introduction signaled that; Chile would not be going home wondering "what if." But against a concrete Brazilian defence, it just was not 'Loco' enough to work.

To overturn the two goal deficit Chile needed Alexis Sanchez to show more of the promise which lit up the group stage. However, Michel Bastos was single minded in his quest to nullify the number seven. Instead, Brazil's own precociously talented winger came to the fore.

Having a much quieter game than his previous displays this month, Robinho was well placed to reap the benefits of of Ramires' hard graft. The midfielder, starting in place of the injured Felipe Melo, intercepted the ball on the half way line before storming forward in a dribble, which left white shirts trailing in his wake. Just as he looked to be hitting a cul-de-sac, Ramires was able to nip the ball left to the Manchester City man, who made the finish from the edge of the box look effortlessly simple.

But the night will end on a bitter-sweet note for Ramires, as he earned a yellow card which will rule him out of the quarter final showdown with the Netherlands.

With half an hour still on the clock, the Samba Boys were able to ease off the throttle. Robinho the most intent on increasing the gap, with a powerful shot well saved and another ruled out after he strayed offside. Chile had Julio Cesar most worried when Humberto Suazo mis-hit a volley onto the top of the crossbar.

The Inter stopper could have been forgiven for thinking ahead to how he may react to the threat of Arjen Robben and co In Friday night's quarter final with the Oranje. A clash of sides who built reputations on free flowing football but at this tournament have both made conscious efforts to 'win ugly' when it is required.

Brazil (4-2-3-1): Julio Cesar, Maicon, Lucio, Juan, Michel Bastos, Gilberto, Ramires, Alves, Kaka (Kleberson '81), Robinho (Gilberto Melo '85), Luis Fabiano (Nilmar '75).

Chile (3-4-3): Bravo, Fuentes, Isla (Millar '62), Contreras (Tello '45), Jara, Carmona, Vidal, Gonzalez (Valdivia '45), Sanchez, Suazo, Beausejour.

Referee: H Webb (ENG)

€12M makes 'circle complete' for Ballack to return to Leverkusen

Bayer Leverkusen have completed the signing of Injured German captain Michael Ballack on a two year deal, after the midfielder was allowed to leave Chelsea at the end of his contract.

The 33 year old, who was injured during Chelsea's FA Cup victory in May, leave's Stamford Bridge on a free transfer, just as he arrived in 2006. That move came after he allowed his contract at Bayern Munich run its course before cashing in on the lucrative contracts being offered by the pensioners in the early days of Roman Abramovich's stewardship.

Now with the blues tightening the purse strings, Ballack returns to the club where he first made his name. His free scoring from midfield helped drive his side within a whisker of Bundesliga titles in 2001 and 2002. Before moving to Bayern Munich in 2002, Ballack had already thrust Leverkusen to the Champions League final and Germany, to the World Cup final. But ultimately both sides fell to classier opposition in Real Madrid and Brazil respectively.

Ballack said of the move: "With my transfer to Bayer Leverkusen a circle is complete." Giving fond memories of the club as his primary reason for returning: "I had a beautiful and successful time here, on which I like to look back on a lot,"

The former Kaiserslautern player then turned his gaze to the future, adding: "But above all the good sporting potential of this young and attractive team were persuasive.

"I am especially looking forward to the great fans, who naturally have been key in my decision to return to Bayer."

With a reported remuneration package of €12M over the two year contract, Leverkusen are thought to have beaten off competition from Wolfsburg for the midfielder's signature.

Sporting directory Rudi Voller was thrilled with the transfer coup:

"We did everything to convince Michael. That his preference was for Bayer despite our limited financial possibilities in comparison to the competition, shows his emotional attachment to the club."

Sexton confirmed as Ireland's first choice number 10

Jonathon Sexton has regained his status as Ireland’s top Fly Half after being named in the starting XV to face Australia in Brisbane this Saturday.

The Leinster pivot was dealt a severe confidence blow when he was replaced by Ronan O’Gara with Ireland trailing in their final Six Nations game against Scotland. When the international squad regrouped for the summer tour, Sexton was suffering discomfort in his jaw as it healed after a break.

O’Gara wore the Number 10 in the defeat to the Barbarian’s. And was guilty of some untimely mistakes, missing touch from early penalties, as New Zealand took an unassailable lead. After Jamie Heaslip’s red card in that game, frustration got the better of O’Gara, dragging down Corey Jane with the ball long gone. He was correctly yellow carded as Ireland were routed in the first half.

Sexton drew rave reviews from his performance in the narrow defeat to the New Zealand Maori, successful with eight kicks from nine, his penalties drew Ireland back into the game after giving the Maori and 18-3 head start. A solid performance in Brisbane could see him nail down the starting position once and for all.

In the back row, Declan Kidney has handed test a test jersey to Ulster’s Chris Henry, while Niall Ronan, who greatly impressed at openside flanker against the Maori, is moved to blindside to accommodate Shane Jennings. Under 20 captain Rhys Ruddock, a late call up to the squad, is named on the bench alongside hooker, Damien Varley, who will also be hoping to win a first official cap.

In the front row Sean Cronin and Tony Buckley are retained allowing something close to a rest for John Hayes. However, there will be no rest for captain, Brian O’Driscoll, who will be partnered by Paddy Wallace, the Ulster centre’s creative dynamism has been greatly impressive against the Barbarians and the Maori.

Meanwhile, Australia coach Robbie Deans has made just two enforced changes from the side which fell to a 21-20 defeat to England on Saturday. Adam Ashley-Cooper comes in on the wing for Digby Ioane (shoulder) and Brumbies scrum half, Luke Burgess lines out in place of Will Genia (Hand.)

Despite Ireland’s four match losing streak, Deans will not be taking anything for granted after Matt Giteau’s missed penalty handed England victory last weekend. Deans said about Ireland:

“They are a seasoned unit, with proven performers in the key positions.”

“Our recent matches will also have given them plenty of confidence that they can succeed, while their players will be hungry. This is their last match before a summer break, and a win on Saturday night will make this tour a success from their perspective.”

little has separated Ireland from Australia in recent years, exemplified by a 20-20 draw at Croke Park in November. But Australia won out 18-12 winners when Ireland last traveled down under, two years ago.

The teams in full:

Ireland: 15 Rob Kearney, 14 Tommy Bowe), 13 Brian O’Driscoll (c), 12 Paddy Wallace, 11 Andrew Trimble, 10 Jonathon Sexton, 9 Tomas O’Leary, 1 Cian Healy, 2 Sean Cronin, 3 Tony Buckley, 4 Donncha O’Callaghan, 5 Mick O’Driscoll, 6 Niall Ronan, 7 Shane Jennings, 8 Chris Henry.

Replacements: 16 Damian Varley, 17 Tom Court, 18 Dan Tuohy, 19 Rhys Ruddock, 20 Eoin Reddan, 21 Ronan O’Gara, 22 Geordan Murphy

Australia: 15 James O’Connor, 14 Drew Mitchell, 13 Rob Horne, 12 Matt Giteau, 11 Adam Ashley-Cooper, 10 Quade Cooper, 9 Luke Burgess, 8 Richard Brown, 7 David Pocock, 6 Rocky Elsom (c), 5 Nathan Sharpe, 4 Dean Mumm, 3 Salesi Ma’afu, 2 Saia Faingaa, 1 Ben Daley.

Replacements: 16 Huia Edmonds, 17 James Slipper, 18 Mark Chisholm, 19 Matt Hodgson, 20 Josh Valentine, 21 Berrick Barnes, 22 Kurtley Beale.

Referee: Bryce Lawrence (NZ)

Seventh heaven for Portugal

Cristiano Ronaldo finally ended his 16 month international goal drought as Portugal were rampant 7-0 winners over North Korea putting qualification for the knockout stages beyond all reasonable doubt.

Raul Meireles was the heartbeat of this Portugal side. Allowed a more advanced role in the absence of Deco, the Porto midfielder reveled in the role and had the foil of Tiago giving him added freedom to join centre forward Hugo Almeida at regular intervals.

After Meireles had given his side a half time lead (pictured), Portugal really hit their stride after the turnaround. With three goals in the space of seven minutes coming from Simao, Almeida and Tiago before the hour mark.

After that point Ronaldo had the look of a man who was enjoying his football, if not completely forgetting the scarcity of goals against his name. He finally experienced the large slice of luck any goalscorer needs to get going, becoming the sixth different goalscorer of the day before Tiago notched a second.

Having matched their opponents in the opening half, North Korea will wonder how the were torn apart so readily in the second period. Showing increased attacking intent after their fine performance against Brazil, the Chollima won equality in midfield and peppered shots at the target, though not all of them tested Eduardo.

As they did in match-day one, Portugal hit the woodwork early. Ricardo Carvalho ghosting behind the flapping Ri Myong-Guk but was just inches from converting Simao's cross after just nine minutes, just as well.

The rain poured down and set the stage for Meireles, the Porto midfielder opened the scoring after 29 minutes, racing onto Tiago's beautifully weighted pass before smashing a low drive goalbound.

The goal largely ended the Korean resistance as the Iberian side created all the pressure either side of the break. The second goal came from an angled pass to Almeida, whose knock down allowed Meireles to slide a pass through to Simao who finished expertly after 53 minutes.

Fabio Coentrao was again a shining light of fullback play and, the player, reportedly the subject of a €15M bid from Bayern Munich picked out the head of Almeida who confirmed that Portugal were going to be here for longer than the group stages.

Ronaldo made Tiago's first goal, pulling back from the left wing into the midfielder path, but the captains memorable moment came with just three minutes to go. Showing the hunger that a goal drought brings, he managed to reach the loose ball before Myong-Guk. Comically, the Jabulani ricocheted up, above Ronaldo's head and landed on his neck, looking around to find it, he noticed it was landing kindly on his right boot with an open goal to aim at.

By that stage Liedson had already capitalised by volleying home goal number five, when Duda's cross was not cleared. And, in the final minute, another cross from the left, this time from Miguel Veloso, gave Tiago his second goal to make it a magnificent seven for Portugal.

Portugal: (4-3-3) Eduardo, Miguel, Bruno Alves, Carvalho, Coentrao, Meireles (Veloso '70), Mendes , Tiago, Ronaldo, Almeida (Liedson ' 77), Simao (Duda '74).

Korea DPR (5-4-1): Ri Myong-guk, Cha Jong-hyok (Nam Sung Chol ' 75), Ri Jun-il, Pak Nam-chol (K-I Kim '58), Ri Kwang-chon, Pak Chol-jin, An Yong-hak, Ji Yun-nam, Mun In-guk (Kim Yong-Jun '58), Hong Yong-jo, Jong Tae-se.

Referee: P Pozo (CHI)

Kaka red card takes gloss off Brazil victory

A goal either side of the break from Luis Fabiano set Brazil on their way to a 3-1 victory over the Ivory Coast, but despite six points on the board, the game was marred for Brazil by a late red card for Kaka.

The match should have seen the Samba Boys finally stretch their legs and, at 3-0 up, show the flair and exhilarating football for which the country is traditionally famed.

Instead, Dunga's side became embroiled in petty squabbles with a beaten side. The ultimate result being Kaka's dismissal which means he will miss the final group game against Portugal.

A shame Kaka's night ended in such circumstances, as it was his moment of magic which prised open the stubborn Ivorian defence. Of late, the Real Madrid man has struggled to show the touch that once made him world player the year.

But, in the 25th minute he gave 84,455 people in Soccer City deja vu. Pouncing on a slightly mis-controlled first touch, before slipping a sublime ball through Tiene and Kolo Toure. Luis Fabiano raced behind the Jabulani and blasted his 9 game goal drought into the roof of the net from a tight angle.

The Sevilla striker's second will be remembered in more infamy as, replays show, after capitalising on confusion caused by a high ball. He controlled with the top of his arm before volleying home. The referee even appeared to ask him politely on the way back to the restart, tapping his arm as Fabiano swore his innocence. Just why would the referee not blow his whistle if he thought a handball had occurred?

That aside, Kaka looked like he might just be ready to grab this World Cup by the scruff of the neck. Terrorising Toure again before pulling back from the byline with his left foot into the path of Elano whose finish in the 62nd minute was once again flawless.

The African side's discipline fell by the wayside. Elano, after being caught badly by Cheik Tiote, limped down the tunnel shortly after his goal. Kader Keita rammed into Felipe Melo and Dunga was becoming increasingly apoplectic as Les Elephantes ploughed into his players with little or no censure.

Sven Goran Eriksson's charges provided little in the way of attacking threat. A speculative long range attempt, from substitute Romaric, the best they could muster in the second half. Until, Yaya Toure picked out Didier Drogba, who made the hitherto watertight Brazilian rearguard look statuesque while he placed a pin point header into Julio Cesars bottom corner in the 79th minute.

After Fabiano's second, Brazil looked capable of scoring four or five. But the failure of referee Stephane Lannoy, to control the game meant that it descended into farce as he booked Kaka twice in a matter of minutes for incidents he did not see.

The critical scene coming from Keita, who, after running into Brazil's number ten, collapsed holding his face after feeling an elbow, (with little or no force) connect with his abdomen.

Brazil: Julio Cesar, Maicon, Lucio, Juan, Bastos, Melo, Elano, Silva, Kaka, Luis Fabiano, Robinho

Ivory Coast: Barry, Demel, Zokora K Toure, Tiene, Eboue, Tiote, Y Toure, Kalou, Drogba, Dindane

Referee: S Lannoy (FRA)

Premier League fixtures for 2010/11 released today

The World Cup star’s of Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur will have to focus on recuperation when they eventually leave South Africa.

Today’s release of fixtures for the new Premier League season, means that the top four hopefuls will face each other in a mouth-watering opening day clash at White Hart Lane. After the long-standing ‘big four’ finally had a member fail to qualify for the Champions League, Spurs managed to break the cartel last season. The decisive result came in a win over City at Eastlands in May, but the oil rich Mancunians will not have to wait long for their chance to exact their revenge.

Champions, Chelsea open the defence of their title when West Brom travel to Stamford Bridge. The Baggies fellow promoted side Newcastle United travel to Old Trafford on day one, the same fixture they began with in 2008/9 when a one all draw was not enough to prevent the Magpie’s relegation.

Premier League first timers, Blackpool, have been handed a home tie with Wigan on August 14th, despite a reported request to play away on the first week to allow extra seating be installed at Bloomfield Road. The Seasiders must feel they will need to secure top flight football before the end of the season, when they travel to Manchester United.

The first marquee game of the new Season will come with Liverpool v Arsenal, then on September 18th when Sir Alex Ferguson hosts yet another new Liverpool manager. While in the following weeks Chelsea will face Arsenal and Man City, at home and away respectively. The Blues will be hoping for a similar finish to last season, when they beat United away from home in the spring. Next season, the fixture will repeat itself just two games from the final day.

View the full fixture list for you club at:http://www.premierleague.com/page/Headlines/0,,12306~2072459,00.html

Swiss roll over Spain

Switzerland produced the shock result of the World Cup so far, defeating favourites, and reigning European Champions, Spain 1-0 in Durban.

Persistence from Gelson Fernandes produced the winning goal after 52 minutes, Erin Derdiyok’s dribble caused havoc in the Spanish defence. And as Iker Casillas and Gerard Pique stumbled amid the confusion, Fernandes was on hand to tap in.

The Swiss defended stoutly to hold the star studded Spanish side goalless at half time. La Roja came closest to equalising on 70 minutes when, Xabi Alonso showed how to strike the Jabulani, however, his thundering shot smashed the underside of the bar.

Switzerland tested the woodwork themselves minutes later as Derdiyok again bamboozled Gerard Pique and Carlos Pujol, but stubbed his shot onto the post.

By that stage, Fernando Torres has already been introduced from the bench but as Cesc Fabregas was left watching, Spain could not find the clear opening they needed and Switzerland held on.

Chile too hot for Honduras

Chile saw off the challenge from Honduras in the Mbombela Stadium, coming out 1-0 victors over the Central Americans in the Group H opener.

Jean Beausejour gave La Roja a much deserved lead after 34 minutes. Mauricio Isla’s cross was met first by defender Maynor Figueroa, but the Wigan player could only clear onto Beausejour’s leg and into the net.

While Honduras were not disgraced, with seven amateurs in their starting 11, the free-flowing style of Marcelo Bielsa’s side saw them create 20 shooting chances (10 on and 10 off target.)

Waldo Ponce, passed up a glorious opportunity to seal the victory as he stooped to head from inside six yards. His weak effort making it easy for Noel Valladreas to scramble across and save. Beausejour’s goal remained the difference between the sides as Chile claimed their first win in a World Cup for 48 years.

Surprise package of North Korea diffused by Brazil

North Korea took on the greatest power in world football and, in the end, were narrowly defeated 2-1 in the group G encounter.

After a goalless first half, Brazil looked very relieved as they took a fortuitous lead from Maicon's cross-shot on 54 minutes. When Elano tapped in Robinho's inch perfect pass 17 minutes later it would have been easy for the Chollima's in red to sit back, relax and watch the samba football unfold in front of them.

But Ji Yun Nam scored a goal he will never forget to narrow the gap with two minutes to play. The wonderful Jong Tae Se knocked down to the midfielder who controlled perfectly first time before taking a second touch as he advanced towards goal and flashed a left foot drive over Julio Cesar.

Brazil attacked for the remainder of the game, desperate to put a gloss on the scoreline, ignoring the dangers of the Korean counter attack. But neither side could muster a last gasp goal and will leave Ellis Park with varying degree's of happiness.

The Democratic Peoples Republic held Brazil at arms in the first half and even looked capable of hitting the five time world champions on the break through the thrilling talents of Tae Se.

Known as Inminui (the peoples) Rooney, the lone striker was overcome with emotion during his national anthem and one feared the occasion could get the better of him. On the contrary, Tae Se was a shining light in the first half, running Lucio and Juan very close to ragged.

He held up the play expertly, dribbled and harried. A superb outlet for his under siege defenders that is sure to have European clubs calling up Japanese translator's to open dialogue with Kawasaki Frontale, for whom Tae Se scored 19 goals in his last 38 J-League games.

The gleaming white socks and glow of lemon jerseys on plush green grass left nobody in doubt that, Brazil are in town and the World Cup is in full swing. But aside from Robinho, this is a side lacking some of the flair and imagination of old. Kaka is far from the player which graced the Giuseppe Meazza stadium in the last decade. Often looking laboured, the Galactico misplaced several passes and failed to make any telling incision through the underdog defence.

The waves of red-shirted defenders thwarted more than just Kaka, and only Manchester City's temperamental forward looked to have the confidence to take the game to the Korean's.

The second half continued along the same lines, with Brazil only creating chances from outside the box. Bastos' driven free kick and Robinho's volley both flying wide. La Selecção were becoming increasingly frustrated until Elano made his contributions. First providing the pass to the byline for Maicon, from which, the fullback gloriously mis-hit a cross (pictured) which went past the badly placed Ri Myong-Guk before swerving inside the back post.

Robinho then produced the pass of the World Cup so far, scything through two defenders into the path of Elano, who made no mistake, side footing first time into the corner.

The performance of DPR Korea, ironically playing with a lot of freedom, will give food for thought to Portugal and the Ivory Coast, who before this match would have considered the Asians as cannon fodder. But thanks to Kim Jong Hun's organisation and Tae Se's rousing display as a lone frontman, they may have to think again, it is not just the south who can advance to the knockout stage.

Brazil (4-2-3-1): Julio Cesar, Maicon, Lucio, Juan, Felipe Melo (Ramires '84), Michel Bastos, Gilberto Silva, Elano (Daniel '73), Kaka (Nilmar '78), Robinho, Luis Fabiano

North Korea (5-4-1): Ri Myong-guk, Cha Jong-hyok, Ri Jun-il, Pak Nam-chol, Ri Kwang-chon, Pak Chol-jin, An Yong-hak, Ji Yun-nam, Mun In-guk (Kim '80), Hong Yong-jo, Jong Tae-se.

Referee: V Kassai (HUN)

Stalemate launches group of death

Another handful of star players but another damp squib of a World Cup game as Portugal and the Ivory Coast could not be separated in Port Elizabeth.

Cristiano Ronaldo hasn't registered a goal for his country in 16 months but insists that his goal scoring is like ketchup, once it starts it will come thick and fast. The first slap of the bottle came after just six minutes and very nearly set the tournament ablaze, a trademark 30 yard dipping shot which rattled the outside of Boubacar Barry's right hand post.

Didier Drogba was cleared to wear a protective cast on his arm, after fracturing a bone during a warm up match early this month. However, Sven Goran Eriksson erred on the side of caution and deemed his talismanic captain fit enough only for the bench.

His 30 minute cameo very nearly produced the decisive moment of the game in injury time. Slid in by Abdelkader Keita's pass, Drogba found himself on the left side of the six yard box. But with only Eduardo to beat, the Jabulani skewed off the boot of the Premier League's top marksman and away to safety.

Les Elephantes lay down their marker in the opening stages, robust challenges stopping European attacks by fair means or foul.

Didier Zokora had already been booked for a mistimed tackle on Ronaldo when, an almost identical obstruction on the number seven (this time by Guy Demel) was ruled fair by referee Jorge Larrionda. Who added insult to Ronaldo's sense of injustice by inviting him to get up off the ground.

That hand signal inspired Demel and his teammates to surround the opposing captain and berate him for his 'dive.' The Madrid man responded verbally to the physical taunts and both parties were cautioned.

The Portuguese of course are well capable of fighting back, few more so than Ricardo Carvalho. When the Chelsea stalwart seen officials giving license to some less than fair challenges, he swung a trailing leg at each opponent he tackled cleanly in the games second quarter.

Indeed, the 'follow-through' tackle is becoming as much a feature of this tournament as the Vuvuzela. Another exponent, Pedro Mendes, left close to all six studs on the shin of Emmanuel Eboue without censure.

The west African side started stronger in the second half, as they did in the first. Carlos Queiroz was forced to use his bench, sending on Tiago and Simao for the anonymous Danny and Deco, who showed a hint of problems in the Portuguese camp, storming straight down the tunnel after 62 minutes.

The changes gave the Iberians a temporary energy boost, but the pacey triumvirate of Simao, Liedson and Ronaldo never clicked and Portugal were restricted to speculative efforts.

Cote D'Ivoire looked more intent on creating crossing opportunities, and finished the game as the team most likely to score. Tiene headed across goal after latching onto Eboue's cross and after Drogba's chance went begging, Keita could only side foot his chance into Carvalho's midriff.

Ivory Coast: (4-3-3) Barry, Demel, K Toure, Zokora, Tiene, Eboue (Romaric '88), Y Toure, Tiote, Dindane, Gervinho (Keita '81), Kalou (Drogba '65)

Portugal: (4-3-3) Eduardo, Ferreira, Bruno Alves, Carvalho, Coentrao, Meireles (Amorin '85), Mendes , Deco (Tiago '62), Ronaldo, Liedson, Danny (Simao '55).

Referee: J Larrionda (URU)

Visit www.joe.ie for latest feature

Graham Henry has long endured criticism for, supposedly, devaluing the All Black jersey by the way he has spread caps around the islands in an attempt to give his squad a greater depth of options.

Thanks in part to injury, and a need for rest after the hard-hitting Super Rugby season, that policy will continue unabated and there will be plenty of unfamiliar faces sticking out their tongue at the end of the Haka when Ireland are the opposition at Yarrow Stadium on Saturday.

Visit:http://www.joe.ie/002498/1/1/story/profile-aaron-cruden for original published feature.

With Luke McAlister demoted to the New Zealand Maoris, part of the 22-man war dance in New Plymouth will be Aaron Cruden. The Wellington Hurricanes out-half will be hoping to make his Test debut in New Plymouth and, having been born and bred just down the west coast in Palmerstown North, expect a raucous reception if the starlet is called into action from the bench.

But while his international team-mates are worried about tears, strains, dislocations and breaks keeping them out of contention, Cruden will hold no fear where injuries are concerned, having recovered from a much more serious affliction.

In 2008 at the age of 19, he was diagnosed with testicular cancer. Feeling discomfort and a lump after training sessions, he got it checked out and the result was just as he feared. The news was kept within his family and he went on to play for his club, Manawatu, the next weekend.

It was a huge mental hurdle for a man barely out of school and the short-term consequences were disheartening. The Number 10 had long been marked as having huge potential, but after surgery to remove the cancerous testicle, nine weeks of chemotherapy and continued rehabilitation, he missed out on a Super 14 contract for the 2009 season.

Stu Cruden gave an inset into his son’s mindset: “First of all he thought ‘why me’, and there was anger. But he got rid of that very quickly and concentrated on his health.”

Cruden Jnr is not one to look backwards, it’s all about short-term goals for the 21-year-old. This season, the aim was to earn a call up to the Maori squad but when the senior call came, he couldn’t help but reflect.

“Two years ago when I was sick in hospital I didn’t think I’d be where I am today," he told New Zealand newspaper The Dominion Post. "It’s been a roller-coaster the last couple of years, but I’ve enjoyed every minute of it and hopefully it will just keep going up from here.”

His ability to bounce back is creditable, but cancer was just the latest complication in his rise to prominence.

Like any other Kiwi lad, he dreamt of playing with a silver fern on his chest. His first memory of rugby is playing barefoot, disregarding frosty ground. The cold that day numbed the pain as he kicked the pill downfield and it was not until he returned home and thawed out that his parents discovered that he had broken his toe. His parents separated, prompting a move of house, while he also contracted tuberculosis as a young child.

Despite the disappointment of missing out on a contract with the Hurricanes, 2009 was to be a landmark year; Cruden was made captain of the New Zealand under-20s and led them to a World Championship crown, earning himself the IRB Young Player of the Year gong along the way. With natural flair and talent those feats must have been easy in comparison to the prospect of life changing surgery.

"Welcome to Super Rugby"

An overdue Super 14 contract finally arrived for 2010 when he signed on with the Wellington franchise. In January, with his side trailing to the Blues in Auckland he was introduced to the big time, playing in the cockpit as the Hurricanes ran out comfortable winners over their north island rivals.

But this was no fairytale; on his very first play Cruden was well and truly smashed by the brutish centre Benson Stanley (who starts against Ireland on Saturday - ROG beware) a real ‘Welcome to Super Rugby mate!’ tackle. The debutant was left crumpled on the opposition 10-metre line as the game continued without him.

The team doctors arrived to their winded starlet, but once he got his breath back the situation was dealt with the same way as all of his previous bone-shaking setbacks. He got on with the game, though took a back seat on kicking duties as experienced scrum-half Piri Weepu pulled rank and edged the ‘Canes clear.

Cruden remains his own harshest critic, however. After a 33-31 victory over the Highlanders, in which he landed three conversions, scored a try and was instrumental in two others, his analysis was less than glowing after he was wayward with three penalties: “The game wasn’t too bad, apart from me not knowing how to goal kick.”

Graham Henry and the New Zealand selectors are less harsh on the youngster, and when Cruden crosses the white line, nobody will be calling it a ‘cheap cap’.

So broken toes, tuberculosis, marital break-up and cancer are all behind him, next challenge: Brian O’Driscoll, David Wallace and Jamie Heaslip. You think he’s daunted?

“It’s always been my goal to become an All Black ... and I can’t wait to rip into it.”

Nah, didn’t think so.

Tough Heineken Cup draw for Irish provinces

Qualification for the Heineken Cup Knockout stages is never easy but Irish provinces will all face tough tasks to emerge from their groups next season after the draw was made in Cardiff today.

Twice champions, Munster will be out to top Pool two despite the presence of the star studded Toulon outfit, making their maiden voyage in Europe's premier club competition. Magners League champions, Neath-Swansea Osprey's will also be hell-bent on qualification in a group which provides no respite, with London Irish also in contention.

2009 winners Leinster will have it even tougher, with two French clubs in Pool two thanks to Paris outfit, Racing Metro, the seventh side from the Top 14 in this years tournament. Champions of France, Clermont Auvergne, who were dumped out by Leinster in this years quarter final, will be out for revenge. While Guinness Premiership runners-up Saracens make this the group of death.

Ulster however, will be quietly confident of advancing from Pool four, the presence of newly formed Italian club Aioni Rugby should give potential for bonus points and as long as they can replicate performances from the fortress of Ravenhill on visits to Heineken cup finalists Biarritz and 1998 winners, Bath.

Elsewhere, defending champions Toulouse, will be happy with a draw which will see London Wasps as their toughest hurdle with Newport Gwent dragons and Glasgow Warriors the other unlucky sides to be drawn in Pool 6 with the champions.

The draw in full

Pool 1

Cardiff Blues

Northampton Saints

Edinburgh

Castres Olympique

Pool 2

Leinster

Clermont Auvergne

Saracens

Racing Metro

Pool 3

Munster

Neath Swansea Ospreys

London Irish

Rugby Club Toulon

Pool 4

Biarritz Olympique

Bath

Ulster

Aioni Rugby

Pool 5

Leicester Tigers

Llanelli Scarlets

Perpignan

Benetton Treviso

Pool 6

Stade Toulousain

London Wasps

Glasgow Warriors

Newport Gwent Dragons

Drogba injury blow for Eriksson

Didier Drogba's World Cup dream could be over before it begins as the Chelsea striker was taken off injured after just 15 minutes of the Ivory Coast's final warm up game against Japan.

Drogba is suspected to have fractured his elbow after being caught by a high challenge from defender Marcus Tulio Tanaka. The Ivorian captain immediately crumpled over in pain, and although he walked off the field himself, there was no sign of movement from his right arm.

The 32 year old underwent a scan after he was substituted and will face an anxious wait for the results, given his age, the wrong result could spell the end of the former Marseille hitman's international career.

Short term coach, Sven Goran Eriksson was anxious for his skipper post match:

"It's an elbow injury but we don't know how bad it is, we (are going) straight to the hospital."

I think we should get an answer before we leave."

Eriksson's team already face an uphill struggle to qualify from a group containing Brazil and Portugal. And the Swede admitted the injury would come as a major blow:

"If it's serious, it's very worrying, he is our captain, one of the best strikers in the world."

The reigning African footballer of the year had put his country ahead through a deflected free kick just three minutes before the collision and Les Elephantes eventually ran out comfortable 2-0 winners in Switzerland.

The talismanic Drogba, who finished as top scorer in the Premier league with 29 goals, would be sorely missed and much of the burden will now fall on his Chelsea clubmate Solomon Kalou to fire Cote D'Ivoire into the knockout stages.

Thousands of African supporters attending the finals will also be facing disappointment from the news. Only Samuel Eto'o can rival Drogba in terms of hero worship on the continent, and a cloud still hangs over his involvement after criticism from Cameroon world cup legend Roger Milla.

World Cup group G preview

Group Strength

Every tournament has a group of death and the Ivory Coast has unfortunately found itself drawn into it for the second time in succession. Four years ago they finished third in a group containing Argentina and the Netherlands and this time around, Les Elephantes must overcome Brazil or Portugal (ranked first and third in the world) if they wish to progress.

Qualifying for their first World Cup since 1966, when they were knocked out by (four goal) Eusebio's Portugal in the quarter finals. North Korea's goal will to avoid the tag of 'whipping boys' but in this group of death will surely be the ones ending up six-points-under.

Group Favourites

One bookmaker has Brazil as odds on favourites to top group G and La Selecção are 9/2 second favourites to win the cup itself on July 11th.

Current manager Dunga, who captained the side to victory in USA '94, has tried to instill a strong work ethic to compliment the natural attacking flair encapsulated in Kaka and Robinho. As a consequence, party animal, Ronaldinho was omitted, despite a decent season with AC Milan. His club mate Alexandre Pato, was also left out, deemed not fit enough after persistent hamstring injuries limited the 20 year old's game time since January.

Dunga's influence will give Brazil more steel than samba and over three games their common tongued brethren from Portugal will surely push them all the way for the top spot.

Battle for Second

Three points against North Korea will be vital for any side to progress. And Sven Goran Erikssons Ivory Coast will target Portugal as vulnerable prey.

With the fervent Vuvuzela blowing local support likely to support a fellow African nation, both Brazil and Portugal will consider Didier Drogba and co. as stern opposition and so will not be taking them lightly.

Portugal will need Cristiano Ronaldo to reach the high standards he sets at club level, but the supporting cast of Ricardo Carvalho, Raul Meireles, and Miguel Veloso will provide leadership throughout the side.

The Outsiders

Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea are rank outsiders and will struggle to get a point against some of the planets most recognisable footballers.

The Ivorian's, as with four years ago will be dark horses and nobody will look forward to playing them should they advance to the knockout stages. But the big boys will be expecting the ambush so don't bet on the upset.

Going Forward

There is great incentive to finish top of the group of death, it is paired with Group H so the runners up are likely to face tournament favourites Spain in round two. While the side who tops the pool will face the less daunting prospect of Chile or Switzerland. Brazil are capable of going all the way in the tournament but a slow start against the Koreans could see them finish behind Portugal. Either way a cracking game of knockout football is on the cards when Spain call around.

Fixtures

Ivory Coast v Portugal, June 15th (15.00)

Brazil v DPR Korea, June 15th (19:30)

Brazil v Ivory Coast June 20th (19.30)

Portugal v DPR Korea June 21st (12.30)

Ivory Coast v DPR Korea June 25th (15.00)

Portugal v Brazil, June 25th (15.00)

Prediction

1st- Portugal

2nd- Brazil

3rd - Ivory Coast

4th- DPR Korea