World Cup Day 3

Algeria 0-1 Slovenia

A match characterised by workman-like approach play and wayward passing as two teams without much quality failed to make an impression on the tournament.

Algeria were beginning to shade it in the second half when they went down to ten men after 72mins but even with their new-found advantage Slovenia lacked any attacking intent and it took a goalkeeping blunder to gift them their goal on 79mins as Chaouchi misjudged Koren's tame effort from the edge of the box.

What I learned about Algeria: Belhadj is their best player (which says it all!)
What I learned about Slovenia: They are the least "silky skilled" team in their region


Serbia 0-1 Ghana

A tight game seeing two midfields packed with 5 men a piece. It was Ghana's more industrious approach that meant they edged most of the game as they pressed the Serbs well and limited them to long cross-field balls.

Both sides had their chances, albeit mostly from set-plays, and it was only a 84th minute penalty that separated them in the end. It took that goal to add some urgency to Serbia's play but at that stage it was too late.

What I learned about Serbia: They aren't too mobile in the centre of the park and struggle to supply their talented attacking players
What I learned about Ghana: They are well organised and will be no pushovers


Germany 4-0 Australia

Germany eased to victory in stylish manner as the Ossie's offside trap was caught out repeatedly by the talented young Germans. Australia did mount a revival after half time playing with a more typical intensity and keeping Germany on the back foot until the 55th minute when Cahill was, harshly, sent off.

What I learned about Germany: They have a dynamic midfield that gets forward with skill and pace and tracks back with equal exuberance
What I learned about Australia: They seem overly reliant on Cahill upfront