Quarter-finals provide drama and excitement in equal measure

Van Bommel offers his condolonces

The quarter-finals in World Cup 2010 brought four unique types of drama. All four venues hosted matches that each provided their own types of intrigue and excitement. It ranged from the collapse of the favourites in Nelson Mandela Bay, to heartbreak in Soccer City for Africa’s last hope of glory. Green Point then hosted a shocking chapter in Maradona’s turbulent World Cup history and finally rugby stadium Ellis Park witnessed two missed penalties within three minutes. Armchair fans around the globe are glad of the two subsequent rest days that follow before the semi-finals after such a tumultuous round of games, in order to get their collective breath back.

Wish you were here

He really is injured, honest.

Over the past few weeks, the anticipation is reaching unprecedented levels as the 2010 World Cup edges ever closer. Unfortunately, there have been an unusually high number of injuries to numerous high profile stars. The African teams have been particularly hit with Chelsea duo Michael Essien and Jon Obi Mikel absent for Ghana and Nigeria respectively, and Ivory Coast talisman Didier Drogba struggling with a suspected broken elbow. Injuries are common place in football, which is still, despite the attempts of many referees, a contact sport. However some players will be missing the marquee event in rather different, and in some cases, tragic circumstances.