Sudáfrica 2010 - FIFA.com

football nations such as Italy, France, England and even
Brazil had to deal with high levels of expectation.
Shocks and surprises
- The early exits of Italy and France (both at the end of the
group stage) and of England (in the round of 16) were
the major shocks of the tournament. In stark contrast,
there were a number of pleasant surprises such as the
performances of New Zealand (in their fi rst World Cup
since 1982), Slovakia (World Cup debutants), Chile,
Paraguay, Uruguay and Ghana.
Strategies
- Teams were successful if they started a game with a set
strategy but were able to adapt during the match. It was
interesting to see Brazil, an experienced and well-drilled
team, lose their focus after the Netherlands’ equaliser in
2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa
the quarter-fi nal as they were unable to adapt or cope
with the pressure of having to win at all costs.
Outstanding youth work
- This World Cup showed that the outstanding youth
development work of many associations is beginning to
bear fruit at the highest level. If the four semi-fi nalists
from 2010 are compared with those from 2006, the
average age of the players was nearly two years lower
in 2010 than in 2006. It should also be noted that three
of the four semi-fi nalists in 2010 are also regularly
among the leading teams in youth competitions at
confederation level and at youth World Cups.
Goalkeepers
It is fair to say that the goalkeepers in this year’s World Cup
were not very consistent, as excellent performances were
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