2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa - - Argentina, Slovakia, Switzerland and Honduras Booked Their Places For Finals in South Africa

Argentina, Slovakia, Switzerland and Honduras became the latest nations to book their place at next summer's World Cup in South Africa.

Diego Maradona's Argentina progressed as substitute Mario Bolatti hit a later winner to end Uruguay's hopes of snatching the final automatic qualification berth in the South American zone.

Bolatti fired home with six minutes remaining and Uruguay, who ended the night with 10 men after Martin Caceres' dismissal, now need to prevail in a play-off against Costa Rica if they are to join Argentina in the finals.

At the start of play Ecuador also had a chance of claiming either the final automatic qualifying berth or the play-off spot, but a 1-0 loss to Chile ended their hopes. Honduras made it to the World Cup for the first time since 1982, claiming the third and final automatic qualification berth in the North, Central America and Caribbean zone with a 1-0 victory over El Salvador. Costa Rica, meanwhile, must go through the play-offs after a 2-2 draw with the United States.

In the European zone, Slovakia relied on a Seweryn Gancarczyk own goal after three minutes to beat Poland, while the Swiss played out a goalless draw with 10-man Israel. For Slovakia it meant they qualified for the finals for the first time as an independent nation, as they topped a fiercely-competitive Group Three.

Slovenia claimed second in the group, and a play-off place, after they overcome San Marino 3-0 to dash the slim hopes of Czech Republic and Northern Ireland who could have leapfrogged them.

Croatia were the highest-profile casualties as their qualification bid ultimately ended in failure despite a 2-1 win in Kazakhstan. Slaven Bilic's side had needed Ukraine to slip up in Andorra, but that unlikely scenario never materialised as the eastern Europeans cantered into the play-offs with a 6-0 triumph.

Portugal's stuttering qualification campaign will continue into the play-offs after they defeated Malta 4-0 in Guimaraes. Greece will join them among the four seeded teams in the play-offs after they defeated Luxembourg 2-1 in Athens to clinch second place in Group Two.

Russia and France are the other two seeded teams, and they had already sewed up second place in their respective groups before Wednesday night's action. The other four teams through to the play-offs are Slovenia, Ukraine, Republic of Ireland and Bosnia-Herzegovina.

Elsewhere, Bosnia-Herzegovina lost 5-2 to Spain, who secured a perfect qualification record of 10 wins from 10 games.

Maradona Hit Out Critics As Argentina Win Over Arch-Rivals Uruguay at The Centenario And Qualify For 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa

MONTEVIDEO (Reuters) - Diego Maradona hit out at critics of his coaching after his Argentina team qualified for the World Cup on Wednesday and said he had issues to discuss with his boss.

"For those who didn't believe in this national team, for those who treated me like garbage (I say) today we are in the World Cup with all the honours, beating a team like Uruguay," Maradona said.

Argentina secured their berth at the 2010 finals in South Africa with a 1-0 away win over arch-rivals Uruguay at the Centenario, scene of the first World Cup final in 1930.

"I am black or white, I'll never be grey in my life," Maradona, who in Argentine eyes could no wrong as a player, told reporters as he criticised the media for inventing stories about differences within the national team staff.

Maradona has been under fire for most of the qualifying matches since he took charge a year ago, for inconsistencies in selection and tactical errors that left Argentina on the brink of failing to qualify.

He lost four matches and won four, including the last two against Peru and Uruguay that left Argentina in the last of South America's four automatic qualifying berths behind Brazil, Paraguay and Chile.

Fifth-placed Uruguay play off next month against Costa Rica, of the CONCACAF region, for another place.

A week ago, Maradona gave the impression there were divisions in the national team staff, suggesting to reporters in Buenos Aires that preparations to face Peru on Saturday had not run smoothly. He said he would only stay on for the finals on his terms, but a few days later accused the media of inventing his possible resignation.

On Wednesday, he allowed a similar doubt to fill the air when, in answer to a question about whether he would be in charge of Argentina in South Africa, Maradona would only say: "I need to talk to (Argentine Football Association president Julio) Grondona."

He reserved his praise for his players and the small group of fans, less than 2,000, who crossed the River Plate from Buenos Aires to support the team in a stadium packed with close to 60,000 Uruguayans baying for Argentine blood.

"I want to thank the whole squad for having given me the privilege of taking Argentina to the World Cup and the people... who crossed the pond."

Ukraine Beat Croatia and Cruised in to European Zone Play-Offs

Ukraine cruised to victory in Andorra to reach the European Zone play-offs next month at the expense of Croatia, who eked out a last-gasp win in Kazakhstan, but will nevertheless watch the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ from back home.

Alexei Mikhailichenko's side kicked off their final qualifier one point above Slaven Bilic's team - and six behind Group 6 winners England - and they made sure of their own destiny by running out 6-0 in Andorra La Vella. Andrei Shevcheko, Oleg Gusev and an Ildefons Lima own goal had the visitors comfortably in command, before Yaroslav Rakitskyy, Yevgen Seleznov and Andriy Yarmolenko amplified the score in the last ten minutes.

Former AC Milan and Chelsea striker Shevchenko gave the visitors the lead after 22 minutes, rifling home as the ball bobbled around in the area, but it was the one piece of quality in a poor opening spell. Ukraine always looked in control of the contest against the group's bottom side, but some sloppy play almost cost them dearly.

Goalkeeper Andriy Pyatov spilled a tame shot from Marc Bernaus, but scrambled back just in time to stop the ball crossing the line. In the second half, Ukraine looked far more secure at the back against an Andorra side who offered plenty of fight if little else.

Andorra did, however, create their best chance of the game when Genis Garcia had a point-blank header saved well by Pyatov in the visiting goal. Ukraine responded, with Gusev doubling their lead on the hour mark, and the resistance from Andorra began to wane when Khacherdi added another nine minutes later.

The visitors took full advantage with Rakitskyy, Seleznov and Yarmolenko all rattling in strikes during a frenetic three-minute spell as the floodgates opened. And the final whistle could not come quick enough for the 800 fans who had turned up to watch the principality in action. Ukraine finish the qualifying campaign with six wins from ten matches, while hapless Andorra failed to pick up a single point, conceding 39 goals.

Thin win for Croatia
The victory maintained their one-point advantage in the group over Croatia, who were 2-1 winners in Kazakhstan.

Croatia dominated possession in Astana, but were repeatedly frustrated by Kazakhstan goalkeeper Alexandr Mokin. However, deep into injury time, Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Nico Kranjcar snatched them three points, which nevertheless proved fruitless.

Russia v Azerbaijan: Vagif Javadov Cancelled Out Andrei Arshavin's Early Goal - - Thrilling Encounter Ended Up With 1-1 Draw

Vagif Javadov cancelled out Andrei Arshavin's early goal as a lacklustre Russia side rounded off their Group 4 qualifying campaign with a 1-1 draw against Azerbaijan.

Russia were already resigned to second place following defeat to group winners Germany on Saturday, and coach Guus Hiddink, with six players on yellow cards and an eye on next month's play-offs, fielded an experimental side in Baku. But it was mainstay of the campaign, Arshavin, who broke the deadlock after 13 minutes, tapping in from close range after Azerbaijan goalkeeper Kamran Agaev could only palm Alan Dzagoev's shot into the Arsenal man's path.

Having taken the lead, Russia were guilty of taking their foot off the gas and allowed their hosts to come into the game. A deep free-kick from Vladimir Levin in the 19th minute eluded everyone and Russia goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev had to be alert to turn the bouncing ball over the bar.

From the resulting corner Makhir Shukurov was presented with a sight of goal but mis-hit his shot wide. Azerbaijan came close again in the 28th minute when Aleksandr Chertoganov's stooping header forced a sharp save from Akinfeev at his near post.

Despite Azerbaijan's spell of pressure, Russia remained a threat on the break and came close to doubling their lead three minutes before half-time. A neat combination between Arshavin and Vladimir Bystrov resulted in a delicate lob from the Zenit St Petersburg midfielder that bounced off the top of the crossbar and over.

Three minutes into the second half, Azerbaijan came within inches of equalising when Sergei Ignashevich's hesitant defending allowed Javadov a shot on goal that Igor Akinfeev awkwardly fisted against the crossbar. And moments later Russia were made to pay for their slack defending when Javadov was allowed another sight of goal, catching out Akinfeev with a bouncing shot from 30 yards to level the score.

Hiddink brought on Igor Denisov and the uncapped Aleksandr Bukharov to try to wake his side from their slumber, and Arshavin almost regained the lead for the visitors with a clever turn and volley that was blocked by Agaev.

With 10 minutes remaining English referee Howard Webb awarded Russia a penalty after Dzagoev tumbled under a challenge from Samir Abbasov, but Ignashevich's weak spot-kick was held by Agaev. It summed up a frustrating night for Hiddink's men.

Spain Ruined Armenia With 2-0 - - Juan Mata's Goal Helped Spain Stood Unbeaten in The Run For Qualification of 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa

Spain remained on course to complete a perfect record in 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ qualifying as they made it nine wins from nine with victory over Armenia in a rain-drenched Yerevan today.

In a clash between a Spanish side who had already secured their spot in next year's FIFA World Cup finals and an Armenia team whose outside hopes of going to South Africa had vanished long ago, it was the European champions who came out on top thanks to Juan Mata's second-half penalty. Mata coolly slotted home what would prove to be the winning goal from the spot in the 64th minute, just six minutes after Armenia had stunned their visitors by equalising through Robert Arzumanyan.

Spain had earlier taken the lead with a brilliant goal from Cesc Fabregas midway through the first half. The Spanish were clear favourites heading into the match having won all eight of their qualifiers and facing a side who had taken just one point from their opening seven matches in Group 5.

However, Vardan Minasyan's side had claimed a shock 2-1 victory over Belgium in their previous match in Yerevan and they would have been eager to have added an even bigger scalp today in the form of UEFA EURO 2008 winners Spain. However, it was not to be for the underdogs, as even though at times they made life difficult for the Spanish, Vicente del Bosque's troops did enough to notch up yet another victory.

In the absence of the injured David Villa, Del Bosque opted to use Fernando Torres as his lone striker with the Liverpool man having recovered from the groin problem that forced him to limp out of training earlier this week. It was Villarreal playmaker Santi Cazorla who came closest early on though, with an effort from inside the area that just cleared the crossbar, while his fellow midfielder Xavi was denied by Roman Berezovsky in the 17th minute.

Cazorla came even closer in the 31st minute with another effort, but Spain were not to be kept out for much longer as two minutes later Fabregas broke the deadlock. Xavi played his part with a fantastic pass over the defence and Arsenal captain Fabregas ensured the opportunity was not to be wasted as he lofted a first-time shot past Armenia goalkeeper Berezovsky and into the far corner of the net.

Up until that point decent chances had been at a premium, but Spain might have been celebrating two goals in four minutes only for Berezovsky to produce a fine save to tip Mata's effort around the post. Spain had to settle for just the one-goal lead at the break though, and with the scoreline unchanged Del Bosque opted to replace Torres with debutant Alvaro Negredo in the 55th minute in a bid to change things around up front.

However, the move did not bring the desired result for Del Bosque as within three minutes of the Sevilla striker's arrival Armenia had claimed a surprise equaliser. The hosts won a dangerous free-kick deep in Spain territory and they made they most of the opportunity as Artavazd Karamyan's cross into the area was headed past Jose Reina by Arzumanyan.

That sparked wild celebrations amongst the Armenia players and must have come as a huge shock to the system to a Spain side, who had only conceded two goals in qualifying before today. However, the Iberian nation quickly regrouped and found themselves back in front not long after.

Mata won the penalty himself after picking up a fine through-ball from Fabregas before being sent crashing by the outrushing Berezovsky and the Valencia youngster picked himself up to clinically slot home the resulting spot-kick to earn Spain the win.

Philippe Senderos Double Stikes For Switzerland Earned a 3-0 Victory Over Luxembourg - - Hopes High To Qualify for 2010 FIFA World Cup

Two goals in as many minutes from defender Philippe Senderos teed up a comfortable victory for visiting Switzerland as their hopes of qualification from Group 2 were boosted in Luxembourg with a 3-0 win.

Arsenal centre-half Senderos netted in the sixth minute to put his side ahead before repeating the feat just two minutes later to put the Swiss firmly in control of both the match and Group 2. Benjamin Huggel made it three after 22 minutes and the hosts were unable to muster a response.

Both Senderos goals were headed efforts, the first coming as he nodded on Alexander Frei's free-kick from the right. The second, just moments later and before the hosts had a chance to catch their breath, came from the same route, but this time it was Tranquillo Barnetta's free-kick that was headed home.

Luxembourg looked shell-shocked and could have leaked a third before the 10th minute, Frei just failing to find the target from a fine position. There was not long to wait for a third, though, Huggel scoring a third headed goal as he turned a 22nd-minute corner past Jonathan Joubert.

The home side did fashion one chance of their own in the first half, Diego Benaglio parrying well from Joel Kitenge's shot. The tempo took a discernible downturn from there on as Switzerland settled into a contented period of possession.

Despite a lack of urgency, there were still chances as Frei went close in the 55th minute and Blaise Nkufo spurned a good chance eight minutes later. Luxembourg, qualification dreams already dashed after just one win in their first eight outings, had little of note to offer in response, with Benaglio increasingly resembling a bystander.

Indeed, it was Switzerland who looked most likely to strike again, Huggel trying but failing to add his second after 64 minutes. Switzerland substitute Eren Derdiyok also had a chance to mark his introduction with a goal but Joubert was on hand to parry.

There were late hints of attacking intent from the home team, Jeff Strasser missing with an 80th-minute free-kick from 30 yards and Serdo Pupovac beating Benaglio with a header four minutes from time only to find Christoph Spycher blocking on the line.

Wayne Rooney's Last-Minute's Equaliser Saves England From Total Humiliation Against Ukraine

Robert Green became the first England goalkeeper to be sent off as Fabio Capello had his 100 per cent 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ qualifying record smashed to pieces by the Ukraine. Green was dismissed for a professional foul just 15 minutes into what turned out to be one of the worst defensive performances in Capello's time in charge.

Wayne Rooney is exempt from criticism after a towering display that he nearly capped with a last-minute equaliser. But at the back, it was a collective nightmare. Rio Ferdinand's return to competitive action turned out to be pretty disastrous, making the error that eventually resulted in Green's departure.

Ashley Cole's attempt to atone for an equally crass mistake resulted in him turning Serhiy Nazarenko's shot past David James. And neither Glen Johnson, nor normally rock-solid captain John Terry were much better as Capello experienced defeat in a competitive game for the first time.

Along with a few others, it really was not Green's night. Pelted with flares seconds into the game, which resulted in a two-minute hold-up, Green had barely had a touch when Ferdinand made his aberration. Prior to only his second competitive start in 12 months, Ferdinand spoke of the unspoken knowledge that no-one in Capello's squad can feel sure of their place in South Africa 2010.

In truth, it would be a startling development if the defender did not go. Yet fitness concerns remain, despite his claim that he is now fully fit. But neither injury nor rustiness could be used as an excuse for the rank bad defending that let Artem Milevskiy charge straight through the heart of England's rearguard.

Green came out to confront the striker, but only succeeded in sending him sprawling. In the confusion that followed, referee Damir Skomina initially showed Ferdinand a red card before finally sending Green on his way. David James was his replacement, Aaron Lennon the unlucky man replaced.

After just 15 minutes, it was a major disruption that Capello could have done without and the Italian must have had a sense of foreboding as Andriy Shevchenko strode up to take the spot-kick, given the number of times the Ukrainian talent has scored against him in the past. Not this time though. He smacked the outside of a post to allow England to continue their dream of completing a perfect qualifying campaign.

For a while, the Three Lions were quite comfortable. They even managed to get forward on a couple of occasions, Rooney predictably getting through the work of two men to make up the numbers. But when Cole also made a needless error close to his own penalty area, there was no reprieve as Milevskiy drove forward before the ball eventually broke to Nazarenko after Johnson had made a tackle.

On the ground where he plays his club football, Nazarenko let fly with relish. Cole flung himself at the ball in a bid to make amends. But he could only divert it into the corner, ending any hope James had of keeping it out.

Cue more flares - and a threat to stop the game, which would actually have been no bad thing for England as errors continued to undermine their hopes of pulling level. Another Ferdinand blunder almost proved costly when the defender's loose header fell to the impressive Milevskiy, whose thunderous shot cannoned back off a post with James hopelessly beaten.

So, while Frank Lampard almost profited from Rooney's astute pass, Capello's half-time demand was for clearer focus, although the loss of Steven Gerrard at half-time shut off one obvious avenue of redemption. Lampard drove a free-kick into the wall when set to do much better and Rooney's industry almost brought England level near the end in a late surge as Ukraine sweated.

But an equaliser would have been unjust given the sheer volume of basic defensive mistakes, which must have left Capello shell-shocked. James Milner conceded a corner at the end of a catalogue of clangers, then James needed to make a feet-first save to deny Andriy Yarmolenko, who had been put clean through by Yaroslav Rakitskiy.

It was almost too bad to be true. Conspiracy theorists wondered whether England might be secretly happy to lose, just to ensure Croatia are knocked out, which will be the case if Ukraine complete the relatively straightforward task of beating Andorra on Wednesday.

If that was supposed to be a consolation, it was totally lost on Capello, who can only hope his players have had all their bad luck and endured all their calamities on one night. For if they repeat this showing, with ten men or 11 in South Africa next year, they will not be away from home very long.

Bosnia-Herzegovina Vs. Estonia - - Goals From Edin Dzeko And Vedad Ibisevic Will Lead Bosnia-Herzegovina to 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa

Goals from Edin Dzeko and Vedad Ibisevic ensured Bosnia-Herzegovina will finish second in 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ Qualifying Group 5 and progress to the play-offs for a place in South Africa. Miroslav Blazevic's side had won the first meeting with Estonia 7-0 last September, but they were made to work harder for victory this time around in Tallinn.

A cagey opening was played in an unusual atmosphere as the away fans remained quiet for 24 minutes to remember Sarajevo fan Vedran Puljic, 24, who was killed in violence ahead of his team's match at Siroki Brijeg in the domestic league on Sunday.

Dzeko was off target with an early chance and was then denied by Estonia goalkeeper Sergei Pareiko, while several deliveries narrowly eluded the visiting strikeforce, before the travelling crowd freed their voices. And, suitably inspired, they took the lead on the half-hour mark as the Wolfsburg frontman met a cross from the left to head home.

Vladimir Voskoboinikov fired wide when handed a chance to equalise by an error in the Bosnian defence three minutes before the interval. Sander Puri then fired over for the hosts before Ibisevic made the game safe in the 64th minute.

A superb counter-attack ended with the Hoffenheim striker being played in behind the home defence, and he rounded Pareiko and slotted the ball into an empty net.

Questionable defending from the hosts left Senijad Ibricic with a good chance in the closing moments, but the Hajduk Split winger was unable to capitalise and fired narrowly wide.

Nonetheless, a sixth victory in the group left Blazevic's men on 19 points and ensured Turkey would be unable to deny them a shot at reaching the finals via November's play-offs, regardless of their result against Belgium later in the evening.

That took the pressure off Bosnia's final match against Spain - already confirmed as group winners with a 100 per cent record from their nine games - on Wednesday. Estonia remain in fifth place, ahead of only Armenia, and will face the Belgians in midweek.

Bahrain Again Unlucky To Find Their Way to 2010 FIFA World Cup™ - - Goalless Draw Against New Zealand Wouldn't Be Best For Bahrain

New Zealand held an unrelenting but distinctly unlucky Bahrain to a goalless draw in the first-leg of the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ Asia/Oceania play-off in Manama.

Bahrain missed at least four clear chances of scoring while the Kiwis defended stoutly and emerged unscathed, with their goalkeeper Mark Paston the hero of the evening. Bahrain enjoyed better ball possession, dictated the pace of the match but could not find the target to give meaning to their overall domination.

The second-leg is scheduled for 14 November in Wellington with the winner booking a berth for next year's FIFA World Cup in South Africa. New Zealand last competed in a FIFA World Cup way back in 1982, with their present coach Ricki Herbert a member of that team, while Bahrain are yet to play in the showpiece event.

The tiny Gulf nation, with a population of a little over a million, came agonisingly close to playing in the FIFA World Cup four years ago but lost to Trinidad and Tobago at the same stage and at the same venue.

Mexico Just Below The Toppers in The Table by The 1-0 Victory Against Honduras - - Thanks to Cuauhtémoc Blanco's Penalty in The 75th Minute

Cuauhtémoc Blanco's penalty in the 75th minute gave Mexico a 1-0 victory over Honduras Wednesday in a key 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ qualifier in the North, Central America and Caribbean zone.

The victory gave Mexico - who had made a stuttering start in the final round of qualifying - 15 points, one behind USA with two matches remaining in the six-nation final round.

Honduras had come into the match atop a table in which the first four teams were separated by just a point. They finished the night lying third, still on 13 points, one ahead of Costa Rica.

Three countries from the region advance directly to the FIFA World Cup finals in South Africa, while the fourth-placed team plays off for a berth against the fifth-placed team from South America.


Mexico dominated the first half, controlling the ball and dictating the pace. But they did not get a goal until Blanco took his penalty, after Giovanni Dos Santos was brought down in the penalty area.

Mexico host El Salvador on 10 October and finish their campaign at Trinidad and Tobago on 14 October. Honduras are at home to USA on 10 October and close against El Salvador on 14 October.

England Beats Croatia by 5-1 - - Getting Closer To 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa

Next stop South Africa for England in 10 months time, the big stage awaits after this emphatic win over Croatia.

Ukraine and Belarus have drawn their match 0-0, England only needed a draw tonight at Wembley against Croatia and they have easily done that.

According to Slaven Bilic the Croatian manager "They are missing some Englishness, some of the things that have always made England teams difficult to defend against and play against." and Fabio Capello's response "Thank you Mr Bilic. It is the best. I have no need to motivate my players after this. It's fantastic assistance. He prepared the game. He tried to provoke a reaction. For me, thank you. That's fantastic assistance. I will tell the players 'You have to remember what Bilic said.'"

OK Slaven 5 goals of Englishness there... En-ger-land En-ger-land En-ger-land En-ger-land En-ger-land

Brazil's 4-2 Victory Against Chile - - Brilliant Hat-trick by Nilmar Stopped Chile Dreaming For 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa

A brilliant hat-trick by Nilmar saw Brazil to a 4-2 victory over Chile on Wednesday in their 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ qualifier and deny their opponents the victory they required to seal their place in the finals.

The 25-year-old Villarreal striker took full advantage of a rare start afforded him with Kaka suspended and both Luis Fabiano and Robinho injured. The already qualified Brazil overcame losing Felipe Melo to a red card early in the second half to maintain their proud record of never losing a FIFA World Cup qualifier at home.

Chile had looked as if they might pull off a famous victory - indeed end Brazil's unbeaten home record in competitive matches stretching back 35 years to when Peru beat them 3-1 in a Copa America game - when they pulled back to 2-2. Brazil had eased into a 2-0 lead with two delightful goals as Nilmar, playing only his tenth international over five years, got on the end of Danny Alves' cross from the right and with the outside of his right foot volleyed home.

Adriano, winning a rare start after personal problems afflicted him, almost doubled the lead a minute later as the barrel-chested striker - scorer of 29 goals in his 49 internationals - rounded the goalkeeper but his shot was cleared off the line. Brazil doubled their lead in the 41st minute as former Sevilla and Arsenal striker Julio Baptista sidefooted past the Chile goalkeeper after Alves had passed to him following a poor Chilean clearance.

Impressive fightback

The Chileans, though, fought back and reduced the deficit shortly before half-time as Melo was penalised for a foul and Humberto Suazo powered home the penalty past Julio Cesar. Melo's nightmare evening was complete in the 49th minute when he was dismissed by Uruguayan referee Jorge Larrionda for going in with his foot raised on Alexis Sanchez and within four minutes Suazo had the visitors level when he scored with a superb left footed volley to take his total to eight goals in the qualifiers.

However, with a place and a famous victory over the Brazilians beckoning the Chileans retreated into their shells and a triple substitution by Brazilian coach Dunga appeared to galvanise the Brazilians.

Thus it was they that appeared to have the one man advantage and settled the match with two goals within two minutes as Nilmar was on hand with a great header to convert Maicon's cross and then knocked home the rebound for his hat-trick, and his fifth international goal, after Maicon's shot had been brilliantly blocked by goalkeeper Claudio Bravo. Chile's hopes evaporated completely when Sanchez was himself sent off in the 77th minute.

Serbia Draws With France - - Brighter Chances for Serbia to Qualify for Big Event in South Africa

Serbia edged a step closer to automatic qualification for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ finals as the Group 7 leaders held nearest challengers France to a stalemate in Belgrade. France recovered from the ninth-minute dismissal of goalkeeper Hugo Lloris to salvage a point as Thierry Henry's effort after half an hour cancelled out Nenad Milijas' 13th-minute opener from the penalty spot. Serbia themselves ended the night with ten men when Danko Lazovic was dismissed later on.

The draw leaves France four points behind Serbia with two matches to play. The night got off to the worst possible start for the French when they were reduced to ten men inside the opening few minutes. Lloris had already been called into action to divert Gojko Kacar's goal-bound effort for a corner in the fifth minute, but the Lyon custodian went from hero to zero moments later when he felled Milan Jovanovic in the area.

Referee Roberto Rosetti had no hesitation in handing last-man Lloris his marching orders, forcing France coach Raymond Domenech into a frantic reshuffle. Andre Pierre Gignac was the unfortunate outfield player to make way for substitute goalkeeper Steve Mandanda, whose first action was to pick the ball out of the net as Milijas powerfully converted the spot-kick.

Despite finding themselves a man down, the French remained more than a match for the Serbians, who were perhaps feeling the pressure with qualification for next year's finals now firmly within reach. Bordeaux midfielder Yoann Gourcuff was busy in the middle of the park for the visitors and almost pulled his side level after 25 minutes with a drilled effort from 25 yards which flew just wide of the target.

French pressure was rewarded after 31 minutes, however, as Barcelona striker Henry fired home. Nicolas Anelka created the opening with a fierce long-range effort which was only parried by Vladimir Stojkovic in the Serbia goal, allowing Henry to follow up with an effort into the bottom-right corner.

Serbia captain Dejan Stankovic tried to lift his deflated team-mates and tried to force a breakthrough with a powerful effort after 39 minutes that was blocked by Eric Abidal, while a minute later Anelka went close at the other end with a shot from the edge of the area that cleared Stojkovic's crossbar. The busy Abidal again underlined the commitment of the French players with another block from a Jovanovic effort three minutes after the restart, and seconds later Branislav Ivanovic fired wide from distance as the hosts began to turn the screw.

Anelka had another sighter for the French after 53 minutes, but Ivanovic lit up the Red Star stadium moments later with a superb effort from the edge of the box which drew an equally impressive parry from Mandanda. A minute later the back-up goalkeeper had to be alert again as he held a headed effort from giant striker Nikola Zigic. Milos Ninkovic came close after 66 minutes as the hosts continued to press, although further efforts by Henry and Gourcuff indicated that France were not going to settle for a point.

Ninkovic's 82nd-minute cross found its way to Zigic, who should have done better than fire tamely at Mandanda from inside the six-yard box. Serbia's numerical advantage evaporated in the final minute when Lazovic received a straight red for a heavy challenge on Bacary Sagna, while France's Patrice Evra spurned the last chance of the match in stoppage time as both sides settled for a point.

With The Goals Scored By Thorstein Helstad and John Arne Riise, Norway Bettered Its Group Table Position by a Convincing Victory Over Macedonia

Norway clinched second place in 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ qualifying Group 9 after a dominant 2-1 victory over Macedonia at the Ullevaal Stadium in Oslo.

Thorstein Helstad and John Arne Riise scored the goals that enabled Egil Olsen's side to claim the runners-up spot behind the Netherlands in the standings at the expense of both tonight's visitors and Scotland, who were defeated by the Dutch in their final qualifier.

The result is unlikely to enable Norway to make it into the play-offs, however, with Olsen's side having a qualifying record that could result in them becoming the odd team out when the records of the nine group-stage runners-up bidding for just eight play-off berths are finalised.

The match was only two minutes old when a loose ball in the area fell at the feet of Helstad, who lashed home to hand Norway the lead.

The hosts maintained the pressure and went further ahead after 25 minutes when Riise netted with his third goal from a free-kick in as many international outings.

Macedonia offered little in the way of an attacking threat until the final 11 minutes, when urgency finally gripped the visiting players and they pulled one back.

Boban Grncarov made the breakthrough, hitting his first international goal with a first-time effort into the roof of the net after being set up by Besart Ibraimi, but it was not enough to spark a late fightback and Norway held on.

Ecuador Up in The Table by Defeating Bolivia - - Proved A Lethal News For Argentina

Argentina had further pressure heaped on them prior to their crucial 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ match with Paraguay when Ecuador moved above them in the table with a 3-1 win away over Bolivia.

Ecuador's victory, which included a goal by Manchester United's big summer signing Antonio Valencia, enabled them to move into the fourth and final automatic qualifying spot, as they bid for a third successive place at the FIFA World Cup finals, one point above Argentina.

The one good piece of news for Argentina - whose coach Diego Maradona is increasingly coming under pressure despite his legendary status as a player - was that Uruguay beat Colombia 3-1 in Montevideo. Had Colombia won, they too would have moved above Argentina, but they were unable to gain their first away win of the series and Uruguay prevailed after a run of four matches without a win.

In a fiery encounter, both sides had one player sent-off, Uruguay's Carlos Valdes in the 30th minute when they were leading 1-0 and then the visitors were reduced to ten men when striker Teofilio Gutierrez was shown red for deliberate handball at the start of the second-half.

Uruguay wrapped up victory in the 88th minute largely thanks to the persistence of Atletico Madrid talent Diego Forlan, as he chased what seemed a lost cause when a shot was deflected and was heading out.

However, the veteran striker got to the ball and cut it back inside for Sebastian Eguren to rifle the ball home and rub salt into Colombia's wounds as his goal was the winner against the same opponents earlier in the campaign in what remains the Uruguayan's sole away victory.

Uruguay's win enables them to climb above Colombia into sixth, a point behind Argentina.

Nelson Haedo Valdes' 27th Minute Superb Goal May Prove a Nightmare for Two-time World Champions - - Paraguay Booked Seat for South Africa

Paraguay qualified for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ on Wednesday with a 1-0 victory over Argentina which leaves the two-time world champions in real danger of missing out on the finals for the first time since 1970.

A superb goal by Nelson Haedo Valdes in the 27th minute settled the match which saw Argentina reduced to 10-men when veteran midfielder Juan Sebastian Veron was sent-off early in the second-half for a second bookable offence. Defeat leaves Argentina in fifth place - only good enough for a place in a play-off against the fourth-placed CONCACAF finisher - and raise questions over Argentine coach, former playing legend Diego Maradona.

Paraguay dominated the first-half against a clearly muddled and disorientated Argentina side, which had seen Maradona make four changes to the one beaten by Brazil on Saturday including bringing in 22-year-old debutant goalkeeper Sergio Romero while Maradona's son-in-law Sergio Aguero returned for his 21st cap replacing the injured Carlos Tevez.

Maradona had hardly packed the substitutes bench with experience either, opting to leave out in-form striker Lisandro Lopez entirely and preferring 35-year-old Martin Palermo, who last played international football in 2000 and admitted to being at a loss for words when he was asked what had been his reaction when he had been selected, on the bench.

Valdes it was who first unnerved the Argentinian defence as his volley was touched onto the post by Romero but he was to make no mistake in the 28th minute with a quite splendid goal both in terms of creation and execution. Valdes won a header just inside the Argentinian half and it fell to Salvador Cabanas, who passed it to Edgar Barretto, whose deft touch back to Cabanas saw the striker look up and pass to Valdes on the edge of the area who rifled in a stunning left footed shot giving Romero - who won the Dutch title last term with AZ Alkmaar - no chance.

Valdes had also been creator for the hosts as his wonderful run and cut back from the byline set up Jonathan Santana but his volley was touched onto the bar by Romero.

Argentina did not offer anything in attack with Lionel Messi looking lost while 34-year-old veteran midfielder Juan Sebastian Veron's sole contribution was to be booked for a high challenge. Indeed the night got worse for Veron - who skippered Estudiantes to the Copa Libertadores this year - when in the 53rd minute he was red carded for a second bookable offence and trudged off in disbelief offering some advice to the fourth official.

Maradona's response was to send on Palermo at the expense of the ineffectual Aguero in a country where the last time the seven-times capped striker played he missed three penalties. The unpredictable Maradona's last throw of the dice was to send on 36-year-old central defender Rolando Schiavi to win his first cap - a player who was so stunned by his call-up he actually rang the coach and asked him if it was a hoax.

Incredibly the two substitutes came closest to grabbing what would have been a crucial point as Palermo rose in the box but Schiavi was unable to just get a touch with his boot with the goal gaping wide.

US Thrased Out Trinidad And Tobago - - Heading Towards 2010 FIFA World Cup Finals

Ricardo Clark's 62nd minute goal lifted the United States to a 1-0 victory over Trinidad and Tobago Wednesday, putting the Americans on the verge of securing a 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ berth.

The United States now have 16 points with two matches remaining in the six-nation final 'hexagonal' round of qualifying in the North, Central American and Caribbean zone. While they are closing in on a trip to the finals in South Africa, Trinidad and Tobago were officially eliminated.

The Americans gained three needed points thanks to Clark's powerful, swerving shot from 30 yards out, which eluded the outstretched arms of Trinidad and Tobago goalkeeper Clayton Ince.

The day started with the top four teams - Honduras, the United States, Mexico and Costa Rica - separated by just one point.

Later Wednesday, Mexico hosted Honduras and El Salvador hosted Costa Rica. El Salvador and Trinidad and Tobago, who both started the day on five points, had to win to avoid elimination.

The top three teams advance directly to South Africa 2010, while the fourth-placed team plays off for a berth against the fifth-placed finisher from South America.

Tunisia Ruined The Dreams of African Super Eagles - - Last-Minute Equaliser by Oussama Darragi Stunned Nigerians

Nigerians were disappointed when Tunisia held the Super Eagles to a 2-2 draw in Abuja. As a result the North Africans retain the top slot in the group, while Nigeria trails them in second place.

The Super Eagles were on course for a much-needed victory in the 80th minute when Esperance striker Michael Eneramo scored Nigeria's second goal only for his Tunisian club mate, Oussama Darragi, to snatch a last-minute equaliser for the north Africans.

Tunisia remain top of Group Two with eight points from four matches, two points clear of second-placed Nigeria with two rounds of matches to be played. Mozambique climbed to third place after they pipped Kenya 1-0 in Maputo.

Only the group winners will qualify for the FIFA World Cup finals.

From the kick-off, the home team took the attacking initiative with Uche and Odemwingie threatening the Tunisian goal. A combination between both strikers allowed Odemwingie to take a crack at goal, which missed the target.

Tunisia were closest to going ahead in the 20th minute when Lens striker Issam Jemaa rounded Enyeama, but his final effort hit the side netting, much to the relief of the 60,000 fans.

Russia-based Osaze Odemwingie then opened the scoring after 23 minutes when he collected a pass from the lively Ikechukwu Uche before darting past two Tunisian defenders and thundering home from inside the box into the roof of the net.

Tunisia drew level two minutes later when Sliti Nabil also produced a rocket of a shot from outside the box to beat diving goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama and, having struck back so quickly, went on to create several more chances.

Enyeama saved from Ben Saada after 36 minutes and Saada again came close to getting his name on the scoresheet when his free-kick from the edge of the box a minute later was off target.

Nigeria continued to attack on the resumption of the second half, but looked increasingly suspect when the Tunisians attacked in numbers.

Esperance striker Eneramo replaced Seyi Olofinjana for the Super Eagles and within a minute of his entrance saw his header miss the target by inches.

At the other end, Enyeama saved from the ever-dangerous Jemaa, while a minute later, Nigeria had to thank the woodwork to save them from a misdirected header by Adeleye.

Nigeria fought back and regained the lead in the 80th minute when Eneramo stabbed home after great attacking play that involved John Mikel Obi and Obinna Nsofor. However, fellow Esperance striker Darragi ensured there would be no victory party in Abuja with a last-ditch equaliser.

Black Stars of Ghana Done It Again - - First African Country Through to The 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa

Ghana's Black Stars became the first African soccer team to qualify for the 2010 World Cup when they beat Sudan at home in Accra by two goals to nil.

Although the win was widely anticipated, the team's place at the top of its group was sealed by a 1-1 draw between Benin and Mali, two other teams in the group, in Cotonou.

Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien scored as Ghana defeated Sudan 2-0 in Accra to become the first African nation other than the hosts to qualify for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™. Inter Milan midfielder Sulley Muntari gave the Black Stars an early lead and Essien added a second soon after half-time, unleashing a drive that flew into the net at the near post.

The result, coupled with closest challengers Benin and Mali drawing 1-1 in Cotonou a few hours before, left the Ghanaian side boasting a 100 per cent record with an unassailable seven-point Group D advantage. It will be the second successive FIFA World Cup appearance for Ghana, who did best of the five African teams in Germany three years ago by reaching the knockout second round before losing 3-0 to defending champions Brazil.

"It was so important to win, regardless of how we achieved the result. It is still special for us professionals to return home and bring joy to the people of Ghana," Essien said.

"What a fantastic feeling to be the first African country to qualify for the first World Cup to be staged in Africa, reiterated Michael Essien of Ghana.

Giovani dos Santos Shines - - Helped Mexico 3-0 Win Over Costa Rica

A superb night by Giovani dos Santos helped move Mexico into one of the the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ automatic qualifying positions thanks to a convincing 3-0 away win over Costa Rica.

Javier Aguirre's El Tri climbed to third place in the CONCACAF final 'hexagonal' round on 12 points although only goal difference separates them from the Ticos, who had a disappointing night in San Jose.

Mexico managed to take the lead seconds before half-time as Dos Santos shot from the left side to Keylor Navas' far post. Seventeen minutes after the interval, Dos Santos assisted Guillermo Franco, who widened the gap.

Eight minutes later, Andres Guardado secured the victory after Dos Santos' pass.

Honduras and the United States lead the CONCACAF table on 13 points after their respective wins over rock-bottom duo Trinidad & Tobago and El Salvador.

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