"It was just like taking a penalty back home in my neighbourhood." Oscar Cardozo, Paraguay striker after his side's 5-4 penalty shootout victory over Japan.
David Villa scores against rivals Portugal in their Round 16 clash: Spain 1 - Portugal 0
- Of the 184 players still involved in the World Cup, less than 10 per cent apply their trade in England. MICHAEL COCKERILL
The Quarter Finalists are sorted and there are seven matches remaining for a Supremo to be determined, fines to be avoided and reputations salvaged. During our time in running the competition we’ve never had a Mate being one step ahead of the organiser but, in his first Football4Mates tournament, Yoni, exceeded all expectations this morning by submitting his tips for the Quarters first thing. I’m feeling sarcastic sniggers but beware; this is a Mate whose passion for football is first class.
Passion together the weapon of being an unbiased neutral - a secret component that has helped our current Supremo dominate this competition. Add this with a Mate who rarely misses any match and the pressure mounts on Rayment to hold onto his lead and salvage the pride of the three Lions and Supremo George K to reclaim his title.
Outside the three, Harry Potter is keeping pace with some shrewd tipping, Luke and Mr Lenny Man have been consistent from Day 1 and our pre-tournament dark horse Turczynski is threatening.
Spicy Duels and Australia have taken the lead from Europe (526-524), Ireland are thumping the French (72-56), NZ 72 – Australia 70 and England 64 – Argentina 51. Javier at the moment is starring down the barrel of numerous fines (Butt End Award, Europe, and Argentina), while Jonovsky and Duncan are in a battle to keep the Argentinean on the bottom.
Failure to impress in 2010: Cristiano Ronaldo looks desperate as Portugal struggle to create an equaliser Photograph: Paul Thomas
No pressure Mates and remember to enjoy the Quarter Finals.
Round 16