Ghana 2 - Zambia 1

Kumasi was the site of the highly contentious clash between hosts Ghana and visiting Zambia.  Zambia needed a win to advance; anything less and Ghana would win the group.  Zambia were locked out of a scheduled training session at the grounds the night before the match, adding to the already poisonous atmosphere between the two federations.  John Boye initially missed a chance to bring a ball down on the endline, but he did a 270-degree spin with Zambia defender Stoppila Sunzu on his back and volleyed a cross to the near post, where Majeed Waris was waiting for a header goal.  Zambia were too concerned by the lack of a foul call to maintain concentration and keep pace with Waris, who scored his second international goal.  Ghana were ahead 1-0 at halftime.

Nathan Sinkala made a crucial steal in his own penalty area in order to keep Zambia close, but no Zambian was able to keep the second goal from eventually being scored.  Kwadwo Asamoah was not closed down from distance at the midway mark of the half, so he let fly and the result was a laser goal from thirty yards out.  Zambia now needed three goals to remain alive in the competition.  Emmanuel Mayuka could have had the first, but he failed to latch onto a through ball with only the goalkeeper to beat.  Ten minutes after the Asamoah goal, Zambia pulled one back through a corner kick that was rolled to the top of the box.  Sinkala was open to strike, and his shot was well struck for a goal.  It was too little, too late for the Chipolopolo, however.  Ghana win 2-1 and advance to round three of African qualifying.  Zambia are eliminated from the 2014 FIFA World Cup.

Ghana 15 pts IN
Zambia OUT
Sudan OUT
Lesotho OUT

Goals
Ghana
Majeed Waris 17
Kwadwo Asamoah 62

Zambia
Nathan Sinkala 72

Match Reports:
http://www.viasat1.com.gh/v1/vnews/sports.php?postId=1884
http://www.goal.com/en-gh/match/82093/ghana-vs-zambia/report
http://sports.myjoyonline.com/pages/news/201309/112723.php
http://www.sportlive.co.za/soccer/international/2013/09/07/ghana-defeat-zambia-2-1-to-reach-play-offs

Highlights:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yro-vAUczwM

Full Match Video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kj682tq8x94

Match Schedule: September 2013

September 2013 marks the beginning of the home stretch for qualifying for Brasil 2014.  Asia will feature one elimination with the playoff between Uzbekistan and Jordan taking place.  Africa will feature nine eliminations and seven teams advancing into round three.  South America could very well see Argentina qualify and both Paraguay and Bolivia given the boot.  Europe is sure to see at least nine eliminations of its own with a group leader or two clinching an early berth.  Even North America could witness some clarity with Jamaica teetering on the verge of elimination and the United States of America close to booking flights to Brasil next summer.

All times are given in Central Time (GMT-5).

6 September 2013
Faroe Islands at Kazakhstan 10:00 Astana
Luxembourg at Russia 10:30 Kazan
Uzbekistan at Jordan 11:00 Amman
Armenia at Czech Republic 11:00 Prague
Zambia at Ghana 11:00 Kumasi
Cyprus at Norway 12:00 Oslo
Andorra at Turkey 13:00 Kayseri
San Marino at Ukraine 13:00 Lviv
Hungary at Romania 13:00 Bucharest
Wales at Macedonia 13:00 Skopje
Denmark at Malta 13:00 Ta' Qali
Lithuania at Latvia 13:10 Riga
France at Georgia 13:15 Tbilisi
Slovakia at Bosnia and Herzegovina 13:15 Zenica
Spain at Finland 13:30 Helsinki
Netherlands at Estonia 13:30 Tallinn
Albania at Slovenia 13:30 Ljubljana
Iceland at Switzerland 13:30 Bern
Croatia at Serbia 13:45 Belgrade
Montenegro at Poland 13:45 Warsaw
Greece at Liechtenstein 13:45 Vaduz
Bulgaria at Italy 13:45 Palermo
Austria at Germany 13:45 Munich
Portugal at Northern Ireland 13:45 Belfast
Sweden at Ireland 13:45 Dublin
Moldova at England 14:00 London
Belgium at Scotland 14:00 Glasgow
Ecuador at Colombia 15:30 Barranquilla
Bolivia at Paraguay 17:30 Asuncion
Venezuela at Chile 19:30 Santiago
Honduras at Mexico 20:30 Mexico City
United States of America at Costa Rica 21:00 San Jose
Jamaica at Panama 21:00 Panama City
Uruguay at Peru 21:30 Lima

7 September 2013
Botswana at South Africa 8:30 Durban
Ethiopia at Central African Republic 8:30 Brazzaville, Congo
Liberia at Angola 10:00 Lubango
Malawi at Nigeria 10:00 Calabar
Congo at Niger 10:30 Niamey
Gabon at Burkina Faso 10:30 Ouagadougou
Equatorial Guinea at Sierra Leone 11:30 Freetown
Tanzania at Gambia 11:30 Bakau
Morocco at Cote d'Ivoire 12:00 Abidjan
Azerbaijan at Israel 12:45 Ramat Gan
Cape Verde at Tunisia 13:45 Rades
Uganda at Senegal 14:00 Marrakesh, Morocco

8 September 2013
Mozambique at Zimbabwe 8:00 Harare
Namibia at Kenya 8:00 Nairobi
Libya at Cameroon 9:30 Yaounde
Rwanda at Benin 10:00 Porto-Novo
Democratic Republic of Congo at Togo 10:30 Lome
Lesotho at Sudan 12:00 Omdurman

10 September 2013
Jordan at Uzbekistan 9:00 Tashkent
Guinea at Egypt 9:00 El-Gouna
Israel at Russia 10:00 Saint Petersburg
Liechtenstein at Lithuania 10:30 Marijampole
Sweden at Kazakhstan 11:00 Astana
Denmark at Armenia 11:00 Yerevan
Finland at Georgia 12:00 Tbilisi
Switzerland at Norway 12:00 Oslo
Turkey at Romania 13:00 Bucharest
Bulgaria at Malta 13:00 Ta' Qali
Bosnia and Herzegovina at Slovakia 13:15 Zilina
Northern Ireland at Luxembourg 13:15 Luxembourg
Slovenia at Cyprus 13:30 Nicosia
Scotland at Macedonia 13:30 Skopje
Estonia at Hungary 13:30 Budapest
Netherlands at Andorra 13:30 Andorra la Vella
England at Ukraine 13:45 Kyiv
Latvia at Greece 13:45 Piraeus
Ireland at Austria 13:45 Vienna
Czech Republic at Italy 13:45 Turin
Poland at San Marino 13:45 Serravalle
Germany at Faroe Islands 13:45 Torshavn
Serbia at Wales 13:45 Cardiff
France at Belarus 14:00 Gomel
Albania at Iceland 14:00 Reykjavik
Mali at Algeria 14:30 Blida
Ecuador at Bolivia 15:00 La Paz
Colombia at Uruguay 17:00 Montevideo
Peru at Venezuela 18:55 Puerto La Cruz
Costa Rica at Jamaica 19:00 Kingston
Mexico at United States of America 19:06 Columbus
Panama at Honduras 20:00 Tegucigalpa
Argentina at Paraguay 20:40 Asuncion

Northern Ireland 1 - Russia 0

Belfast was the site of this month's only FIFA World Cup qualifier as Russia came to play hosts Northern Ireland.  The match was originally scheduled for 26 March 2013, but the snow postponed the match on that occasion, forcing the match to be rescheduled.  Northern Ireland defender Gareth McAulay snuffed out two early Russian goalscoring opportunities with well-timed tackles in his own penalty area, but it was clear that Russia would be the side to hold the majority of possession.  Alexander Ayunkov soon thereafter had to save Russia with two blocked shots in the same sequence.  Russia dominated possession, but Northern Ireland created the best chance of the half so far off a quick restart.  Jamie Ward took the ball up the center of the pitch and unleashed a blast from twenty-one yards that crashed flush into the far post with the rebound ricocheting off a Russian defender and back to the goalkeeper.  Northern Ireland soon thereafter found a goal when a long ball bounced over Niall McGinn's head.  McGinn ran the ball down and got a cross off as the ball was about to go over the end line.  Martin Paterson made a strong run into the box and rose to meet the ball with his head before Vasili Berezutskiy, crushing a goal and giving the hosts a 1-0 lead.  Northern Ireland took the 1-0 lead into their locker room.

Paterson continued to be dangerous in his lone striker role in the second period, but he was only able to add more offsides violations to his goal from the first period.  The second half was much less action-packed than the first, and Russia did not have the proper attitude to mount a comeback.  The rain that began to fall in the last five minutes could not dampen the lively crowd as Northern Ireland looked to close out their first victory in their past fourteen competitive matches.  They would see out the end of the match quite easily, and Northern Ireland deservedly win 1-0.

Portugal 14 pts +6
Russia 12 pts +6
Israel 11 pts +7
N. Ireland 6 pts -3
Azerbaijan 4 pts -6
Luxembourg 3 pts -10

Goals
Northern Ireland
Martin Paterson 43

Match Reports:
http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/preliminaries/news/newsid=2152393/index.html
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2393753/Northern-Ireland-1-Russia-0-Martin-Paterson-stuns-Fabio-Capello-Michael-ONeill-claims-win.html

Highlights:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=haLKfr39Rr4

Match Schedule: August 2013

There is only one FIFA World Cup match scheduled for the month of August 2013, and that is a makeup for the snow-delayed match between hosts Northern Ireland and Russia that was originally scheduled for 22 March 2013.  Northern Ireland will be looking for their first win of the 2014 FIFA World Cup.

Time is given in Central Time (GMT-5).

14 August 2013
Russia at Northern Ireland 13:45 Belfast

Equatorial Guinea docked points for ineligible player

Equatorial Guinea become the sixth African team sanctioned for fielding ineligible players in a qualifying match during the 2014 FIFA World Cup.  Equatorial Guinea have forfeited their home victory over Cape Verde for having fielded an ineligible player.  Emilio Nsue, who scored a hat trick in the match, was not eligible to represent Equatorial Guinea at the senior international level, though no exact reason was given for his ineligibility to play for the country.  The match in question occurred on 24 March 2013, a match which Equatorial Guinea won 4-3.  The match has been awarded as a 3-0 victory to Cape Verde.  Also, the return fixture that occurred on 8 June 2013 has been awarded as a 3-0 victory to Cape Verde.  Nsue also featured in that match, so Equatorial Guinea were punished again.  The original outcome of that match was a 2-1 victory for Cape Verde.  The adjusted group table appears as follows:

Tunisia 11 pts
Cape Verde 9 pts
Sierra Leone OUT
Eq. Guinea OUT


This changes the scenario for Tunisia's home match in September against Cape Verde.  Before this ruling, Tunisia had clinched the group, but now Cape Verde have arisen from the ranks of the eliminated.  Now the match will occur with the Group B title on the line.  Tunisia need only a draw to advance.

News Reports:
http://sports.yahoo.com/news/soccer-equatorial-guineas-hat-trick-hero-declared-ineligible-163804291.html
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2013/soccer/wires/07/19/2080.ap.soc.fifa.equatorial.guinea.1st.ld.writethru.197/index.html

Togo docked points for inelgible player

Last-place Togo continue the troubling trend of African teams being sanctioned for playing ineligible players in a qualifying match.  Togo have forfeited their home victory against Cameroon due to fielding a player who should have been serving a suspension for yellow-card accumulation.  The match in question occurred on 9 June 2013, a match which Togo won 2-0.  Alaixys Romao should not have been permitted to participate in that match, so Togo are now being punished.  The match has been awarded as a 3-0 victory to Cameroon.  The adjusted group table appears as follows:

Cameroon 10 pts +4
Libya 9 pts +3
DR Congo OUT
Togo OUT

This changes the scenario for Libya's match away to Cameroon in September with the Group I title on the line.  Previously, Libya only needed a draw to clinch the title, but now Libya have to defeat Cameroon in order to advance.

News Reports:
http://www.fifa.com/aboutfifa/organisation/news/newsid=2132048/index.html?intcmp=fifacom_hp_module_media_statements

Ethiopia docked points for ineligible player

CAF Group A winners Ethiopia have forfeited one of their victories against Botswana due to fielding a player who should have been serving a suspension for yellow-card accumulation.  The match in question occurred on 8 June 2013, a match which Ethiopia won in Botswana 2-1.  Minyahile Beyene should not have been permitted to participate in that match, and Ethiopia have acknowledged the mistake.  The match has been awarded as a 3-0 victory to Botswana.  The adjusted group table appears as follows:

Ethiopia 10 pts +1
South Africa 8 pts +4
Botswana 7 pts +1
Cen. Af. Rep. OUT

This news saves both South Africa and Botswana from elimination with one round of matches left to be played in September.  Ethiopia would clinch the group (for real this time) with a victory away to Central African Republic, but a slip up would allow the winner of South Africa's home match against Botswana to steal top spot in the group.

News Reports:
http://www.supersport.com/football/article.aspx?Id=1979334
http://www.fifa.com/aboutfifa/organisation/news/newsid=2128618/index.html

AFC Playoff Schedule

Uzbekistan and Jordan qualified for the AFC Playoff by virtue of finishing in third place in their AFC Fourth Round groups.  The AFC Playoff is played as a two-legged home-and-away series with the winner determined by aggregate score over the two matches.  The draw for which group's third-place team would host the first or second leg was held in Zurich on 19 March 2013.  Group Two was given the first leg at home and Group One was awarded the second leg at home.  The winner of the AFC Playoff advances to face the fifth-place South American team in the Intercontinental Playoffs.

6 September 2013
Uzbekistan at Jordan

10 September 2013
Jordan at Uzbekistan

Costa Rica 2 - Panama 0

San Jose and a slick, wet pitch was the scene for the final 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifier of June 2013.  Costa Rica welcomed neighbors Panama into town for the occasion.  The rain prevented much attacking from taking place in the opening forty-five minutes.  The ball stayed in the midfield for the most part as neither time wished to make the early mistake.  0-0 was the score at the break.

Two minutes into the second half, Costa Rica found themselves with a close free kick.  Brian Ruiz sent in a rolling ball that evaded every player in the Panamanian defense and a near touch from teammate Alvaro Saborio (pictured, red).  The ball went straight into the goal off Ruiz's foot.  The Ticos had the 1-0 lead.  Shortly thereafter, Celso Borges connected with a thirty-two-yard wonder strike slip-and-slide style that was sent on a rope into the upper ninety.  Costa Rica had doubled their lead to two goals.  The rest of the match provided little action other than a shoving match after the final whistle.  Costa Rica win 2-0 and move into second place in the CONCACAF table.

USA 13 pts +4
Costa Rica 11 pts +4
Mexico 8 pts +1
Honduras 7 pts -1
Panama 6 pts -2
Jamaica 2 pts -6

Goals
Costa Rica
Bryan Ruiz 47
Celso Borges 51

Match Reports:
http://www.ticotimes.net/More-news/News-Briefs/Costa-Rica-on-path-to-2014-World-Cup-with-2-0-win-over-Panama-_Wednesday-June-19-2013

Highlights:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B4ACZmlp3PU

Full Match Video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kj0MwKoeqXg (1st half)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p7Lz3fo6No0 (2nd half)

United States of America 1 - Honduras 0

The United State of America played a second consecutive home qualifier, this time in Sandy against Honduras.  Honduras had to rely on good goalkeeping by Noel Valladares to maintain contact with the United States in the early going.  A Fabian Johnson cross was one-timed by Eddie Johnson, but Valladares was able to dive across his line to parry the ball away for a corner.  Clint Dempsey (pictured, white) had multiple chances to score, but his headers just could not find the target in the first half.  A turnover by American centerback Matt Besler gave Andy Najar a chance to run the ball down the field for a shot, but he directed the ball straight at the goalkeeper.  The half ended as it began, 0-0.

Dempsey got a header on frame ten minutes into the half, but Valladares handled it cleanly off the bounce.  A goalmouth scramble later on led to a Dempsey header with Valladares on the floor, but the hand of Wilson Palacios (pictured, blue) got in the way of the shot without a handball infraction being issued by the referee.  With just over twenty minutes to go, Valladares denied a diving header chance by Dempsey yet again, this time off a nice cross from Graham Zusi.  The Yanks finally found their deserved opener four minutes later.  A soft through ball from Dempsey was ever so slightly pushed on by Zusi to Fabian Johnson on the endline.  Fabian Johnson cut the ball back for Jozy Altidore, who passed the ball into the net for the most delicate goal the powerful Americans may ever score.  The United States hold on and win 1-0 for their third win out of three June qualifiers as they currently top the CONCACAF final round table.

Goals
United States of America
Jozy Altidore 73

Match Reports:
http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2013/6/18/4443500/usa-vs-honduras-2013-final-score-world-cup-qualifying
http://americansoccernow.com/articles/united-states-beats-the-bunker-to-defeat-Honduras

Highlights:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7KEGgLok1aY

Jordan 1 - Oman 0; Australia 1 - Iraq 0

1974, 2006, 2010.  Australia were looking for qualification number four at home in rainy Sydney against an already-eliminated Iraq side.  Australia got off a good shot two minutes in after a one-two-one-two by Robbie Kruse and Tim Cahill up front, but Iraq goalkeeper Noor Sabri made a nice reaction save to deny Cahill.  In an unlikely scenario, Australia's two centerbacks nearly combined for a goal, but Sasa Ognenovski could not keep his header on frame from Lucas Neill's cross.  Australia were trying to win the match through an aerial battle, but the first half ended in a 0-0 stalemate.

Iraq's Saif Salman hit a strange knuckler in the second minute after the restart, but Socceroo goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer was able to get down and hold onto the shot.  The crowd grew impatient and antsy as the goal just would not come for Australia.  Substitutions of the attacking duo of Cahill and Kruse looked like desperation but in fact were strokes of genius.  A Marc Bresciano cross with seven minutes left was headed back across Sabri's goal by Joshua Kennedy, and Australia were finally in the lead.  Australia win 1-0 and take the final direct berth from Group Two into Brasil 2014, becoming the second team to qualify after Japan.

Amman was the site of the crucial qualifier between Jordan and visiting Oman.  A win or draw for Oman would send them into the AFC Playoff, whereas Jordan could use only a win to make the AFC Playoff.  Oman were the better side following the opening kickoff, and they nearly scored as Qasim Said found himself launching his foot forward to tip-in at the far post, but his touch could not provide the finish.  Oman would still be pleased with the 0-0 halftime score as they were halfway to the result they needed to advance to the next round.

Saeed Al Murjan drove the ball up the pitch for Jordan against eight Omani defenders.  Al Murjan pushed out wide to Khalil Bani Ateyah, who sent a ball into the box.  Ahmad Ibrahim peeled off from his run and was open in space for a diving header that sent Jordan into a 1-0 lead.  Oman had more than a half hour to respond and avoid elimination, but Jordan made sure that no equalizer was anywhere to be found.  Jordan win 1-0 and advance to a two-legged playoff with Uzbekistan.  Oman are eliminated from the 2014 FIFA World Cup.

Japan 17 pts IN
Australia 13 pts IN
Jordan 10 pts
Oman OUT
Iraq OUT

Goals
Australia
Joshua Kennedy 83

Jordan
Ahmad Ibrahim 57

Match Reports:
http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2013/6/18/4441102/australia-vs-iraq-final-score-1-0-result-2013/in/4205171
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-06-18/socceroos-v-iraq-world-cup-qualifier-live-blog/4763134
http://www.foxsports.com.au/football/socceroos/jordan-secure-third-place-in-australias-group-and-play-off-place-after-1-0-win-over-oman/story-e6frf4l3-1226666015243

Highlights:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i5Tm0zphMo8 (Australia v. Iraq)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NdVM1P6_-VU (Jordan v. Oman)

Iran 1 - South Korea 0; Uzbekistan 5 - Qatar 1

Seoul was the site for the match between visiting Iran and South Korea.  At least one team would be qualified to Brasil 2014 after the conclusion of play.  Son Heung-Min hit a bouncer into the turf, but the shot did not stay down and went over Iran's goal.  South Korea broke for goal off a defended corner, but Lee Myung-Joo's sprint was slowed by great recovery defense from Khosro Heydari.  In spite of near total dominance, South Korea could not score and the first half ended without a goal.

A whiff by Kim Young-Gwon in defense with no help behind him allowed Reza Ghoochannejhad to latch onto ball and go one-on-one with the goalkeeper to score the opener for Iran.  Kim Young-Gwon fell to the floor in shame, but truthfully his mistake hurt Uzbekistan a lot more than it hurt South Korea.  Kim Young-Gwon almost made up for his error with a strike off a short free kick that had rebounded to him, but Iran goalkeeper Rahman Ahmadi made a superhuman move to deny the goal.  Ahmadi doubled his save by regrouping in time to deny Jang Hyun-Soo as well, keeping Iran in qualifying position.  Lee Keun-Ho saw his late header attempt go just wide of goal, leaving the Taegeuk Warriors behind in the match as time expired.  Iran win 1-0 and qualify for Brasil 2014.

The match in Tashkent between hosts Uzbekistan and Qatar kicked off only two minutes after the festivities in Seoul.  Qatar started a very much second-choice side, which perhaps gave the offensive-minded Uzbekistan lineup an opening to score many, many goals in anticipation of overcoming a massive goal-differential disparity against either South Korea or Iran, depending on the other match's result.  Uzbekistan were only assured of qualification with a six-goal victory, though a Korean victory would make a one-goal Uzbek victory enough.  Server Djeparov had the first clear chance for Uzbekistan with a snapped left-footed shot, but Qatar goalkeeper Ahmed Abonora was able to tip to safety.  Alexander Geynrikh was very dangerous for Uzbekistan, and he nearly scored when a ball nearly found him sliding three yards out.  Somehow, in spite of the dominance of the White Wolves, Qatar were first to score on a counterattack.  A beautiful through ball from Khalfan Ibrahim was tucked into the far corner by Abdulgadir Bakur with Qatar having a numerical advantage on the break.  Ibrahim Abdulmajed of Qatar nearly turned an own goal off a corner, but the crossbar saved him.  Timur Kapadze's cross was volleyed on the fly by Geynrikh, but again the crossbar played favorites and picked Qatar.  The half ended 1-0 to Qatar.

Bakhodir Nasimov was substituted in for Uzbekistan on the hour mark, and he immediately scored after receiving a pass across the box on a three-on-two break.  Uzbekistan were finally level at 1-1.  With less than twenty minutes to go, it became clear that South Korea were not going to win their match, so Uzbekistan went all out to try and win by six goals.  They came close.  Oleg Zoteev slalomed through Qatar right back Hamid Khaleefa twice before finishing at the near post to give the White Wolves a 2-1 lead.  Two minutes later, it was 3-1.  Abonora tried to punch away a header only to kill the ball's momentum for a tap-in goal to Nasimov.  With three minutes left in regulation time, Odil Ahmedov volleyed a high deflection once it fell back down toward Earth into the Qatar goal.  4-1 became 5-1 in stoppage time.  Abonora did all he could to prevent an own goal, but the rebound fell perfectly for a tap-in to Uzbekistan.  Uzbekistan win 5-1, but the margin of victory was not enough to qualify them for Brasil 2014.  South Korea instead are on their way to Brasil 2014, with Uzbekistan into the AFC Playoff.

Iran 16 pts IN
South Korea 14 pts +6 IN
Uzbekistan 14 pts +5
Qatar OUT
Lebanon OUT

Goals
Iran
Reza Ghoochannejhad 60
 
Uzbekistan
Bakhodir Nasimov 61, 74
Oleg Zoteev 72
Odil Ahmedov 87
Ulugbek Bakaev 90+1

Qatar
Abdulgadir Bakur 37

Match Reports:
http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2013/6/18/4441440/south-korea-vs-iran-final-score-0-1-iran-qualify-for-2014-world-cup
http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/world/news-display/fifa-world-cup-qualifying--south-korea-0-iran-1/69178
http://bostonherald.com/sports/revolution_soccer/soccer/2013/06/uzbekistan_downs_qatar_5_1_in_wcup_qualifier
http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2013/6/18/4441276/uzbekistan-vs-qatar-final-score-result-2013

Highlights:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MDG5___LMwQ (Iran v. South Korea)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VI7NfWoLlxE (Uzbekistan v. Qatar)

Benin 2 - Mali 2; Algeria 1 - Rwanda 0

Kigali was the scene for Rwanda's home match against Algeria.  Saphir Taider (pictured, white, shooting) nearly put the Algerians ahead in the second minute from a header from seven yards, but Rwanda goalkeeper Jean-Claude Ndoli (pictured, red) jumped straight up quickly to palm the ball out for a corner kick.  Ndoli next denied Islam Slimani (pictured, white, #13)  from the half circle on a low roller to the lower ninety.  The Algerian attack was relentless, but a well-timed block of a pass by Fabrice Twagizimana continued to hold the visitors at bay.  Ndoli was up to the task yet again when Algeria played a tricky free kick.  Algeria pretended to be adjusting the ball with a hand as three men pretended to debate who would strike.  Suddenly, a short pass was played and the shot was taken, but Ndoli parried to safety off a bounce.  The half ended without any goals having been scored.

The Fennec Foxes maintained their offensive mindset in the second period.  Finally, the pressure broke the Rwanda defense.  A long throw-in bounced into Slimani's possession.  Slimani did a magnificent no-look pass off a bouncing ball with his studs the sent Taider in on goal.  Taider's touch was a bit heavy, but it went just off the tip of the gloves of a sliding Ndoli, allowing for Taider to tap in the rebound.  Rwanda had a decent shot on-goal from a distant free kick, but a sliding push aside off the bounce by Algeria goalkeeper Adi Mbolhi did the job.  Salomon Nirisarike prevented a second goal for Algeria by beating two attackers to a rebound off another good Ndoli saved, shielding the ball until Ndoli could recover.  Taider was wrong-footed on a tap-in opportunity late, but his early strike was all that was needed for Algeria's first ever win in Rwanda in three attempts.  Algeria win 1-0, and the result spells the end for Benin's hopes of qualifying for Brasil 2014.

Bamako was the site for Benin's trip to Mali.  A massive goalkeeping error from Mali's Mamadou Samassa allowed a below average shot from Stephane Sessegnon to squirt through his hands and give Benin the early lead.  Mahamadou Samassa missed a free header that would have equalized within five minutes of the opening goal after a well-taken set piece from Seydou Keita.  However, unlike in the Rwanda game, Mali were able to respond quickly, drawing a penalty on a give-and-go.  They would equalize from the spot.  The game remained wide open as Benin had nothing to lose, having already been eliminated, and Mali needing a victory to stay alive in the competition.  On a counterattack, Jodel Dossou nearly curled in a goal for Benin, but Mamadou Samassa redeemed himself with a full-extension two-handed tip away.  A couple minutes later, Benin did regain the lead through a Razak Omotoyossi turnaround shot through two defenders.  Keita almost equalized on a drive following the resulting kickoff, but his shot was pushed aside by Benin goalkeeper Saturnin Allage.  At halftime, the scoreboard read Benin 2, Mali 1.

Cheick Diabate received a cross inside the Benin six-yard box, gathered the ball, pushed into open space, and then scored on a turning shot to equalize with twenty minutes to go in the match.  Mali, however, were unable to pull out the required victory.  The match ends in a 2-2 draw, Mali's second consecutive disappointing draw at home.  Mali become the twenty-fourth and final African team eliminated from the 2014 FIFA World Cup in June 2013.  Algeria are the third African side to clinch a berth in the CAF Third Round.

Algeria 12 pts IN
Mali OUT
Benin OUT
Rwanda OUT

Goals
Algeria
Saphir Taider 52

Benin
Stephane Sessegnon 8
Razak Omotoyossi 32

Mali
Mahamadou Samassa 15 PK
Cheick Diabate 69

Match Reports:
http://allafrica.com/stories/201306170025.html

Highlights:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VhrmuGJ-sCY (Algeria v. Rwanda)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ge2Q1A5QjQ (Benin v. Mali)

Full Match Video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nyMPe2IDJYk (Algeria v. Rwanda)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oGIGKiqWAH0 (Benin v. Mali)

Egypt 1 - Mozambique 0; Guinea 1 - Zimbabwe 0

Egypt continued their march toward Brasil 2014 with a visit to Maputo to face Mozambique.  Mozambique forced Egypt out of their familiar red kits, but no one was going to force Egypt out of first place today.  Egypt went ahead with only five minutes to go in the half.  Mohamed Aboutrika threaded a through ball to Ahmed Fathy, who then passed laterally to Mohamed Salah.  Salah then scored his fourth goal in two qualifiers to put the Pharaohs ahead 1-0.  Egypt were up 1-0 at the break.

Aboutrika should have iced the game in the final ten minutes but muffed an easy chance for Egypt.  This did not come back to bit the Pharaohs in any way as they were able to keep a clean sheet.  Egypt win 1-0 and advance to the CAF Third Round.  This result eliminated Guinea from the 2014 FIFA World Cup.

With the result from the earlier match, hosts Guinea and Zimbabwe played in Conakry knowing that the match result would not help either side advance in the tournament.  Only fourteen Zimbabwe players made the trip due to mix-ups in flight scheduling and lack of funding.  Zimbabwe held out for as long as they could, but Guinea eventually grabbed the lead through a goal from Mohammed Yattara.  Guinea led 1-0 at halftime.

In the second half, a depleted Zimbabwe offered little in attack and little to motivate their opponents.  The match saw no further scoring in the second half.  Guinea win 1-0.

Egypt 15 pts IN
Guinea OUT
Mozambique OUT
Zimbabwe OUT

Goals
Egypt
Mohamed Salah 40

Guinea
Mohammed Yattara 37

Match Reports:
http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/6/52/74098/Sports/National-Teams/Relive-Mozambique--Egypt-World-Cup-qualifier.aspx
http://www.dailynewsegypt.com/2013/06/19/egypt-defeats-mozambique-in-world-cup-qualifiers/
https://www.newsday.co.zw/2013/06/17/guinea-down-warriors/
http://www.supersport.com/football/zimbabwe/news/130616/Guinea_trump_Zimbabwe

Highlights:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hnJcB7zKg68 (Egypt v. Mozambique)

Senegal 2 - Liberia 0

Senegal made the trip to Monrovia to take on Liberia.  Papiss Cisse was the supposed danger man coming into the match for Senegal, and he did not disappoint.  Cisse was chopped down in the box by Alex Karma.  Cisse dusted himself off to convert the kick and put Senegal ahead 1-0.  Anthony Laffor nearly got through the Senegalese defense for an equalizer, but his shot was pushed aside by Senegal goalkeeper Bouna Condoul.  Condoul again denied Laffor, this time on a pivot volley shot.  Senegal were thankful for the halftime whistle and the 1-0 lead.

Liberia had the majority of the ball, but Senegal would score a second against the run of play.  A cross from Lamine Gassama found Cisse, who had shaken the marker who had been standing goal-side to find an open header from inside the six-yard box.  Cisse converted for his second goal of the afternoon.  The match was suspended for more than a quarter hour in the second half as frustrated fans threw water bags and plastic bottles onto the pitch.  Senegal win 2-0.  Liberia become the twenty-third African team eliminated from the 2014 FIFA World Cup in June 2013.

Senegal will play Uganda at a neutral venue in September to decide the Group J title.

Senegal 9 pts +4
Uganda 8 pts 0
Angola OUT
Liberia OUT

Goals
Senegal
Papiss Cisse 19 PK, 54

Match Reports:
http://www.liberiansoccer.com/Liberia%20Dealt%20Massive_World_Cup_Qualification_Blow_Falls21011918118171171611.htm

Highlights:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YE44EIGw55o

Equatorial Guinea 1 - Tunisia 1

Anything less than a win by Equatorial Guinea would see visitors Tunisia throwing a party in Malabo as Tunisia would win Group B.  Equatorial Guinea drew a penalty with ten minutes to go in the first half that they converted for a 1-0 lead.  The lead would stick through the end of the half.

Tunisia found themselves at the penalty spot in the second period.  They, too, converted their chance, thereby leveling the match at one goal apiece.  Tunisia were able to hold on for a draw in spite of their lackluster performance.  The match ends in a 1-1 draw, which is enough for Tunisia to win Group B and eliminate Equatorial Guinea.  Tunisia become the fourth team on the day to advance into the CAF Third Round.

Tunisia 11 pts IN
Cape Verde OUT
Sierra Leone OUT
Equatorial Guinea OUT

Goals
Equatorial Guinea
Juvenal 36 PK

Tunisia
Oussama Darragi 64 PK

Highlights:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ZMOaO7RIuc

Cameroon 0 - Democratic Republic of Congo 0

The crowd was on hand in Kinshasa to watch home side Democratic Republic of Congo take on Cameroon in a match both teams needed to win in order to keep pace with Libya in Group I.  DR Congo certainly had a good chance to get the points they needed to stay alive in the chase for Brasil 2014 seeing as Samuel Eto'o was out injured for the Indomitable Lions.  No goals were found in the opening period, however.  

Disappointingly for the crowd gathered to watch the affair, the home side were unable to break the defense of Cameroon.  Cameroon failed to score for the second match in a row, but they remain with life in the tournament since the match finishes as it began, 0-0.  The draw eliminates DR Congo and means that the match between Cameroon and Libya and September will decide Group I.

Libya 9 pts +3
Cameroon 7 pts -1
DR Congo OUT
Togo OUT

Match Reports:
http://www.supersport.com/football/Cameroon/news/130616/DR_Congo_Cameroon_in_goalless_draw

Full Match Video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vKECJgmVO5E

Ghana 2 - Lesotho 0

Maseru was the scene for Ghana's invasion of Lesotho.  A win for Ghana would see them leap over Zambia in the standings.  Lesotho surprisingly had the upper hand throughout the first half until Ghana snatched the lead against the run of play in the final stretch.  A deep free kick from Sulley Muntari met Jonathan Mensah deep in the penalty box.  Mensah lofted a header into the goal that was last touched by John Boye as it was crossing to goal line to give the Black Stars a 1-0 they would take with them into their dressing room.

Ghana settled down and took command with the one-goal advantage in the second period.  With a quarter hour to go, Asamoah Gyan (pictured, red) took advantage of a misplayed pass backward by Lesotho.  Nkau Lerotholi (pictured, green #18)could not gather the bad pass, and Gyan was in on goal.  His initial effort was saved by the body of Lesotho goalkeeper Mohau Kuenane, but Gyan headed in the rebound.  Ghana win 2-0, and now they need only a draw at home to Zambia in September to advance out of Group D.

Ghana 12 pts +14
Zambia 11 pts +8
Sudan OUT
Lesotho OUT

Goals
Ghana
John Boye 44
Asamoah Gyan 75

Match Reports:
http://allsports.com.gh/2013/06/16/ghana-finish-off-lesotho-go-top-of-group-d/
http://www.supersport.com/football/ghana/news/130616/Ghana_beat_Lesotho_to_take_charge
http://allsports.com.gh/2013/06/16/ghana-finish-off-lesotho-go-top-of-group-d/

Highlights:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mcu7SBwJHKg

Ethiopia 2 - South Africa 1

The de facto title match in Group A took place today in Addis Ababa between hosts Ethiopia and visiting South Africa. Getaneh Kebede nearly flicked his header on goal early on for the hosts, but South Africa goalkeeper Itemelung Khune was up to the challenge and caught the shot on a dive.  Salahdin Said was Khune's next victim as the netminder flew low to his right to catch Said's blast from distance.  Bernard Parker was denied an opener for Bafana Bafana on two occasions.  The first was parried away by Ethiopia goalkeeper Jemal Bushura.  The second was a looper header headed off the line by Minyahile Beyene.  Parker took his third chance with aplomb to score a superb opener.  Parker, with Aynalem Hailu matching him stride for stride, volley off a high bounce with authority, beating Bushura to the far post.  Reneilwe Letsholonyane made a mess of his one-versus-one opportunity to double the lead after an excellent through ball found him in stride.  Ethiopia were level thanks to a dose of good fortune.  Addis Hintsa was trapped at the top of the box by four defenders.  However, his weak pass attempt drew a weak deflection, giving Hintsa a window through which to pass to a streaking Kebede.  Kebede finished well to send the match into the half square at 1-1.

With twenty minutes to go, Parker scored a wonder goal, beating the goalkeeper off a cross with a header from fifteen yards away!  Unfortunately, Parker was defending a set piece, giving an otherwise benign Ethiopian second half attack a fluke goal and a 2-1 lead.  South Africa pressed hard to equalize and remain alive in the search for Brasil 2014.  Ethiopia caught Bafana Bafana on the counter in stoppage time, but Said missed just wide of goal with only Khune to beat.  Nevertheless, Ethiopia win the match 2-1.  Ethiopia win Group A and send South Africa crashing out of the 2014 FIFA World Cup.

Ethiopia 13 pts IN
South Africa OUT
Botswana OUT
Cen. Af. Rep. OUT

Goals
Ethiopia
Getaneh Kebede 42
Bernard Parker 70 OG

South Africa
Bernard Parker 33

Match Reports:
http://www.goal.com/en-za/match/82078/ethiopia-vs-south-africa/report?
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1674580-south-africa-vs-ethiopia-score-grades-and-post-match-reaction
http://allafrica.com/stories/201306170180.html

Highlights:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gNLmB81GVdc

Full Match Video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SuJ5nO2NK2c

Cote d'Ivoire 4 - Tanzania 2

Dar Es Salaam and hosts Tanzania faced off with Cote d'Ivoire.  Tanzania struck in the second minute off a long throw-in.  The ball was allowed to bounce by the Ivorian defense.  Souleymane Bamba in central defense blocked a bicycle kick attempt, but Amri Kiemba tapped in the rebound to put the hosts on top 1-0.  The Elephants did not panic at all.  Arthur Boka found the ball with time and space up the left flank, so he easily picked out Yaya Toure.  Toure spun and was in on goal but opted instead to pass laterally across the goal to Lacina Traore, who tapped in for 1-1.  Toure made it 2-1 midway through the half when his short-range free kick bent through the three-man wall to score at the near post.  The Taifa Stars pulled level a dozen minutes later.  Shomari Kapombe made a dash down the left before lacing a desperation cross from the endline back toward goal.  Kiemba flicked it on over the diving Cote d'Ivoire goalkeeper Boubacar Barry, and Thomas Ulimwengu made the uncontested finish when the ball fell to his feet.  Cote d'Ivoire drew a penalty late in the half through Gervinho (pictured, orange), which they would convert for a 3-2 halftime advantage.

Both teams had various chances to further add to the score.  Tanzania looked likelier to do so, but Jean Jacques Gosso in defense for the Elephants did a great job putting out fire after fire.  The final quarter hour was an assault on the Ivorian goal to no avail for the hosts.  It took until stoppage time for the match to finally be sealed.  Gervinho made a soft lay-off pass across the box to fresh substitute Wilfried Bony, who pushed home for a two-goal edge.  Cote d'Ivoire win 4-2 and become the first team to clinch a berth in the CAF Third Round.  Tanzania and Morocco have both been eliminated as a result.

Cote d'Ivoire 13 pts IN
Morocco OUT
Tanzania OUT
Gambia OUT

Goals
Cote d'Ivoire
Lacina Traore 13
Yaya Toure 23, 44 PK
Wilfried Bony 90+3

Tanzania
Amri Kiemba 2
Thomas Ulimwengu 35

Match Reports:
http://www.goal.com/en-za/match/82090/tanzania-vs-ivory-coast/report?#

Highlights:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=grrR35rfJKY

Full Match Video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F1g957OK18c&list=PL79m9Jm7_jmAdBjcwvx4Qz9snKynVjJEF

Morocco 2 - Gambia 0

Morocco were at home in Marrakech to face off against Gambia.  The Moroccans used an early goal to calm any nerves they may have felt.  A chip from inside the box from Youssef El-Arabi to Abdelazziz Barrada allowed Barrada to turn and shake off three defenders before firing home for the opening goal of the match.  Morocco nearly had a second five minutes on, but El-Arabi's blast was saved by Gambia goalkeeper Bubacarr Sanyang.  Gambia proved the more dangerous side for the remainder of the half due to the exploits of attacking midfielder Sanna Nyassi (pictured, red), but they could not find the equalizer in the first period.  Morocco led 1-0 at the conclusion of the half.

Five minutes into the second half, Morocco were vibrant in attack down the left flank.  Barrada slotted a ball to the half circle to an unmarked Younes Belhanda. Belhanda curved a simple shot into the net for a 2-0 lead.  Nyassi would draw a penalty kick for Gambia later on, but Pa Modou Jagne lifted the penalty kick well over the crossbar, and from then on the intensity dropped in the Gambian team.  Morocco win 2-0.

Cote d'Ivoire 10 pts +8
Morocco 8 pts +1
Tanzania 6 pts 0
Gambia OUT

Goals
Morocco
Abdelaziz Barrada 3
Younes Belhanda 51

Match Reports:
http://allafrica.com/stories/201306181223.html

Highlights:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v9lxgp3cBDs

Cape Verde 1 - Sierra Leone 0

Praia was the scene for Sierra Leone's visit to Cape Verde.  Already-eliminated Cape Verde looked the better team from the opening whistle, and they were rewarded for their efforts after a dozen minutes.  Sierra Leone centerback Mustapha Dumbuya tried to do an overhead clearance, but instead he left a jump ball inside his own box.  Heldon Ramos (pictured, blue) won the header against the goalkeeper, and his shot bounced safely into the goal.  The blow awakened the visitors, and they had much more impetus to go forward, but no other goals were to be had in the first half as Cape Verde went into the break with a 1-0 lead to protect.

Cape Verde were sitting back looking onto to hit on the counterattack.  They sprung a two-on-one break that ended with Julio Tavares on goal with only the keeper to beat, but his shot somehow missed the target.  Sierra Leone put together some decent offensive pressure, but nothing too troubling in the end.  The Blue Sharks saw the shutout through to completion.  The 1-0 win lifts Cape Verde into second place in Group B, and it also means that Sierra Leone join them amongst the ranks of the teams eliminated from the 2014 FIFA World Cup.

Tunisia 10 pts +4
Cape Verde OUT
Sierra Leone OUT
E. Guinea 4 pts -2

Goals
Cape Verde
Heldon Ramos 12 (pictured, blue)

Match Reports:
http://www.supersport.com/football/africa/news/130616/Cape_Verde_end_Sierra_Leones_hopes

Highlights:
http://www.footytube.com/video/cape-verde-islands-sierra-leone-jun15-182591

Burkina Faso 1 - Congo 0; Gabon 4 - Niger 1

A game at home to Burkina Faso in Pointe-Noire was the first of two chances Congo would have to clinch the Group E title.  However, a Burkinabe victory would maintain hope not only for Burkina Faso, but also for Gabon.  Congo had the first dangerous attack of the half as an attempted cross tailed away and struck the Burkinabe crossbar before bouncing away.  Congo goalkeeper Barel Mouko nearly gave away a goal by trying to save a high-velocity, chest-high back pass from going out of bounds.  Luckily for Mouko, he was able to block the shot that came from the rebound as Congo avoided disaster.  Fabrice Nguessi led a charge for Congo up the right side.  He slotted a pass to the top of the box, but Burkina Faso goalkeeper Daouda Diakite made a sliding save to his left.  Aristide Bance (pictured, green) scored a goal late in the half for Burkina Faso from eleven yards out, and then struck another ball off the crossbar just before the end of the opening period.  Burkina Faso led 1-0 at the halftime whistle.

Very late in the second half, the Burkinabe nearly doubled their lead.  Burkina Faso pulled out Congo's goalkeeper before laying a ball across the box, but the shot on the vacated net was blocked by a kick save from a Congolese defender.  Nevertheless, Burkina Faso win 1-0 and maintain life in the chase for round three.

If you did not think you would see the day when a player scored a hat trick in a FIFA World Cup match on penalty kicks alone, it is time to update your world view.  Gabon pulled off the odd feat today in a home match against Niger in Libreville.  They did so in comeback fashion, however, as Niger took a lead just before the quarter hour mark through Yacouba Seydou.  Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang began his odd penalty kick hat trick with two minutes left in the half, which ended 1-1.

The final ten minutes were an extremely messy affair.  Niger lost Kofi Dankwae to his second yellow card in minute 80, but Gabon countered with an Eric Mouloungui red three minutes later.  Not to be outdone, Niger responded with a straight red to Kourouma Fatoukouma three minutes after that, and suddenly Gabon were at the penalty spot again.  Aubameyang converted to give Gabon a 2-1 lead in a match where they had ten men and their opponents had only nine.  Deep into stoppage time, Gabon scored not once, but twice.  Bruno Ecuele had one from open play, but Aubameyang finished off his hat trick and the match with his third penalty conversion.  Gabon win 4-1.

In a fair world, Burkina Faso would win the group in September with a win at home against Gabon, but the world is not fair so now the Burkinabe will have to pull hard for Niger to get a result against Congo come September.

Congo 10 pts +4
Burkina 9 pts +2
Gabon 7 pts 0
Niger OUT

Goals
Burkina Faso
Aristide Bance 38

Gabon
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang 43 PK, 87 PK, 90+8 PK
Bruno Ecuele 90+7

Niger
Yacouba Seydou 14

Match Reports:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/22921519

Highlights:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aWErbEyrN14 (Burkina Faso v. Congo)

Botswana 3 - Central African Republic 2

Central African Republic made the trek to Lobatse to face Botswana with neither team having any hope of making it to Brasil 2014.  Nicaise Ozingoni opened the scoring for the visitors, but their bright start looked to be thrown out the window with five minutes left in the half.  Central African Republic were reduced to ten men by a direct red card shown to Ali Calvin Tolmbaye for bringing down Mogakolodi Ngele in the box.  Botswana converted the penalty kick, and the match was all square at one goal apiece at halftime.

Five minutes after the restart, Ozingoni had his brace as the visitors were not yet exhausted from having to cover extra territory with one less player.  Eventually, the disadvantage came back to harm them.  Ngele equalized with a quarter hour left on the lock.  Then, a rebound from a Botswana free kick was knocked in by Ofentse Nato (pictured, blue) to give Botswana a late lead.  Botswana held on to win 3-2.

Ethiopia 10 pts +4
South Africa 8 pts +5
Botswana OUT
Cen. Af. Rep. OUT

Goals
Botswana
Jerome Ramatlhakwane 41 PK
Mogakolodi Ngele 74
Ofentse Nato 86

Central African Republic
Nicaise Ozingoni 33, 50

Match Reports:
http://www.dailynews.gov.bw/news-details.php?nid=3494
http://www.bloemfonteincelticfc.co.za/articles.aspx?Id=1975424
http://www.mtnfootball.com/international/fifa-world-cup-2014/matches/reports/2013/june/15-botswana-v-car.html

Uganda 2 - Angola 1

Kampala was the site for Uganda's home match against Angola.  Uganda would take the group lead with a victory.  Uganda had the best chance of the first period, but it was a difficult one.  Geofrey Massa tried an audacious chip, but the trajectory was too high and allowed the defense to clear the ball.  The first half ended with no score.

Angola had the opener a dozen minutes after the restart.  Job was left unmarked from the left of the half circle, and he coolly curled his shot in at the far post for 1-0.  With seven minutes to go, a huge stroke of luck leveled the score.  Emmanuel Okwi attempted a cross from well outside the box, but the cross tailed on him and ended up carrying into the net beyond the reach of a befuddled goalkeeper.  Fabricio worsened the effects of the equalizer by being shown a red for Angola in minute 86 after he took down Hamis Kizza, who otherwise was in on goal, leaving the Black Antelopes down a man.  In the final minute of regulation, Uganda took their first lead of the afternoon.  A lazy cross from Okwi found a wide-open Tonny Mawejje at the mouth of goal, and his simple header did the job.  Uganda win 2-1.  As a result, Angola have been eliminated from the 2014 FIFA World Cup.

Uganda 8 pts 0
Senegal 6 pts +2
Angola OUT
Liberia 4 pts -1

Goals
Uganda
Emmanuel Okwi 83
Tonny Mawejje 89

Angola
Job 57

Match Reports:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/22918581
http://www.supersport.com/football/uganda/news/130615/Uganda_sink_Angola_to_top_group
http://www.newvision.co.ug/news/643995-uganda-cranes-2-angola-1.html

Highlights:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kod7G7hQXo0

Sudan 1 - Zambia 1

Zambia had a massive opportunity to stretch their lead over Ghana in the group with a home match today in Ndola against Sudan.  Sudan did win the first meeting in Group D between the sides 2-0, but that result was wiped off the books and awarded as a Zambia victory.  Sudan put in tons of effort defensively to keep the Chipolopolo at bay in the opening half.  0-0 was the score at intermission.

With twenty minutes to go, Zambia took their chance off a set piece.  Christopher Katongo's shot on goal was miraculously pushed aside by Sudan goalkeeper Ehab Mohammed.  Kondwani Mtonga picked up the rebound, faked a pass, dribbled to the side of Mohammed, and chipped a cross across the face of goal.  Jacob Mulenga (pictured, orange, heading ball) headed in to give Zambia the lead.  Sudan won a corner immediately off the kickoff, and then they scored.  Mudathir El Tahir's cross was headed in by Salah Ibrahim to the far post.  Just as quickly as they had taken the lead, Zambia had lost it.  No more goals were to be scored in this match, and it ends 1-1.  In all likelihood, Zambia will now have to win in Ghana in September in order to advance to the third round of African qualifying.  Due to the luck they received to start the group, it seems only fair that they now have to pull off the ultimate trick against their toughest group rivals.

Zambia 11 pts +8
Ghana 9 pts +12
Sudan OUT
Lesotho OUT

Goals
Zambia
Jacob Mulenga 69

Sudan
Salah Ibrahim 70

Match Reports:
http://www.ghanasoccernet.com/sudan-exact-revenge-by-holding-zambia-to-a-1-1-draw-giving-ghana-the-advantage/

Highlights:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aMIjHwbD2PE

Libya 2 - Togo 0

Libya's home match against Togo, originally scheduled to take place in Benghazi, was moved to Tripoli for security reasons.  Libya are piecing together their country after a recent civil war, so what better way to represent a new era than by qualifying for their first FIFA World Cup finals?  A win at home would send them on their way, and it would send Togo out of the tournament.  Togo were missing Alaixys Romao and Jonathan Ayite, who refused to come to Libya given security concerns.  Libya took advantage of the unsettled Sparrowhawks early.  Komlan Amewou (pictured, yellow #8) committed a handball in his penalty area, conceding the early penalty kick that Libya would convert for a 1-0 lead.  Amewou's horror show would worsen twelve minutes later when his diving header off a cross found the back of his own net, conceding a second goal to Libya that was completely his fault.  Libya led 2-0 at the half.

An out-of-sorts Togo offered little in the second half to cause the home crowd to worry.  Libya coasted to the finish line on this day.  Libya win 2-0.

Libya 9 pts +3
Cameroon 6 pts -1
DR Congo 5 pts +1
Togo OUT

Goals
Libya
Faisal Saleh 7 PK
Komlan Amewou 18 OG

Match Reports:
http://espnfc.com/news/story/_/id/1476545/libya-win-eliminates-togo?cc=5901
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/22915071

Highlights:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZU2x-IUWYTE

Namibia 1 - Nigeria 1; Kenya 2 - Malawi 2

Blantyre was the site of the tilt between visiting Kenya and Malawi.  Malawi were looking to improve on their home form, which includes two draws in two chances during the 2014 FIFA World Cup.  Malawi's players were threatening to boycott the match over the issue of payment, but the match did take place as scheduled.  Malawi introduced a tactical double substitution, putting the influential Gabadhini Mhango on with twelve minutes left in the half.  At haltime, it was Malawi 0, Kenya 0.

Malawi were ahead in the first minute of play after the restart.  Robin Ngalande put the home side ahead, but Kenya pulled even six minutes later when a ball from Jamal Mohammed was scored by Andrew Murunga.  The host Flames took another lead with ten minutes to go behind a goal by Robert Ng'ambi.  Malawi looked likely to finally record a home victory.  However, an own goal in the final minute of play leveled the affair at two goals apiece.  Moses Chavula was trying to clear a long throw-in but instead directed the ball into his own net.  Malawi could not recover from their set back in the limited time remaining, so the match ends 2-2.  Malawi will now be ruing their lost chance as a Nigeria win later in the day would see Malawi eliminated with a match remaining.  However, if Nigeria fail to defeat Namibia, the final matchday would pit Malawi against Nigeria with the right to advance on the line.

Nigeria made the trip to Windhoek to take on Namibia.  A double save by Namibia goalkeeper Virgill Vries in the opening minute saved the crowd from a rude awakening.  A nifty back heel by Ahmed Musa put Anthony Ujah in with a shot on goal, but Ujah could only direct his ball at Vries.  Nnamdi Oduamadi was next to try his luck, but a scrambling Vries was able to push the ball off the line, from where the rebound was sent well off frame.  Nigeria were in complete control except on the scoreboard.  No goals were scored in the opening period.

Slowly but surely, Namibia began to establish themselves in the second half.  After Musa had just come close, Namibia caught the Super Eagles off guard.  A run by Petrus Shitembi led to a pass to Deon Kavendji that was sent on to Tangeni Shipahu.  Shipahu pushed wide to a running Shitembi, whose cross into the box was turned goalward off a volley by Kavendji to give Namibia the lead.  Nigeria were level six minutes later off a free kick from just beyond the half circle from centerback Godfrey Oboabona.  Vries did not read the ball well and was late to react, allowing the ball to get through his hands.  Nigeria escape with a 1-1 draw.  The result eliminates Namibia and means the September qualifier between Malawi and Nigeria will decide the Group F winner.

Nigeria 9 pts +2
Malawi 7 pts +1
Namibia OUT
Kenya OUT

Goals
Malawi
Robin Ngalande 46
Robert Ng'ambi 80

Kenya
Andrew Murunga 52
Moses Chavula 90 OG

Namibia
Deon Kavendji 77

Nigeria
Godfrey Oboabona 83

Match Reports:
http://www.goal.com/en-za/match/82107/malawi-vs-kenya/report?
http://www.nyasatimes.com/2013/06/12/malawi-draw-kenya-2-2-kaira-own-goal-deny-flames-victory/
http://www.goal.com/en-ng/match/82108/namibia-vs-nigeria/report

Highlights:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hem3PNu-7Wk (Namibia v. Nigeria)

United States of America 2 - Panama 0

Seattle and its raucous crowd welcomed Panama to a true home-field advantage for the United States of America.  United States were without concussed Jermaine Jones and suspended Graham Zusi.  Panama were without the injured Blas Perez.  Jozy Altidore was taken down in the box by Panama defender Roman Torres, but the correct call for a penalty was not made.  However, the United States did not waste any time sulking and were back at it two minutes later.  Michael Bradley dribbled up the pitch and pushed out wide left for Fabian Johnson, whose one-time pass through the box found an open Jozy Altidore at the back post for the finish.  The Americans took the 1-0 lead into the locker room, but a later surge by Panama made many wonder if the home side would suffer from lack of confidence after the restart.

A quick ball forward from Geoff Cameron after winning a loose ball sprung Eddie Johnson beyond the offside trap of the Canaleros.  Johnson shot around the goalkeeper from thirteen yards to put the Yanks up 2-0.  With ten minutes left in the match, Damarcus Beasley hit the post off a nice lay off from Altidore, saving Panama from further ignominy.  United States goalkeeper Tim Howard came off his line smartly in stoppage time to block a Rolando Blackburn shot and preserve the shutout.  United States win 2-0 and go top of the table in CONCACAF.

USA 10 pts +3
Costa Rica 8 pts +2
Mexico 8 pts +1
Honduras 7 pts 0
Panama 6 pts 0
Jamaica 2 pts -6

Goals
United States of America
Jozy Altidore 36
Eddie Johnson 53

Match Reports:
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/soccer/news/20130612/usa-panama-player-ratings-world-cup-qualifier/?sct=sc_wr_a2
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/soccer/news/20130612/usa-win-panama-world-cup-qualifier.ap/

Highlights:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DbusEx91mXk

Honduras 2 - Jamaica 0

Tegucigalpa and its home support were behind Honduras as last-place Jamaica paid a visit.  Alvas Powell cleared a ball off the line with his head early to spare Jamaica, but the Catrachos had set the tone.  Roger Espinoza received a short corner for Honduras and swung in a cross that was headed back toward where it came by Roger Rojas.  Boniek Garcia (pictured, white) pounced on the ball and put away the opening goal for Honduras ten minutes into the match.  Jamaica goalkeeper Donovan Ricketts was made to parry a low shot by Mario Martinez late in the half. Honduras were up 1-0 going into their locker room.

Ricketts did all he could to keep the flood gates from opening onto the Jamaican goal.  It did not help that defender Adrian Mariappa was sent off for Jamaica due to a second yellow in minute 76.  With two minutes to go, an awful pass intended for Ricketts was played by Daniel Gordon.  Rojas easily picked off the pass and touched around Ricketts before rolling the ball softly into the empty net.  Honduras win 2-0.

Goals
Honduras
Boniek Garcia 10
Roger Rojas 88

Match Reports:
http://jamaica-gleaner.com/latest/article.php?id=45654

Highlights:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xfXnwM-F62Y

Full Match Video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wv9u7XSKi2s

Chile 3 - Bolivia 1

Santiago and suddenly surging Chile welcomed Bolivia to town for the final South American qualifier of the month of June.  A Marcelo Diaz close-range free kick brought the best out of Bolivia goalkeeper Sergio Galarza, who made a flying save to tip over the bar.  Chile were lucky to put the first goal on the bar just after the quarter hour mark.  Their cross was initially clipped by Bolivia defender Ronald Raldes (pictured, green), and the inside-out shot by Eduardo Vargas was batted aside by Galarza.  However, Galarza managed only to push the ball weakly into the side netting, and Chile had their opening goal.  Two minutes later, Vargas fought his way around Luis Gutierrez, whose intent was to see the ball out for a goal kick.  Vargas passed to Arturo Vidal.  Vidal's shot deflected off the back of a Bolivian player and off the crossbar, allowing Alexis Sanchez (pictured, red #10) to nod home into an empty net for 2-0.  Fifteen minutes later, Bolivia made a goal appear out of thin air.  Marcelo Martins caused a turnover in midfield.  His pass to Gualberto Mojica led to a long through ball back to Martins, who finished one-on-one with the goalkeeper.  Vidal almost scored on a lofted cross, but Galarza's chest met the ball right after Vidal's scissor kick attempt.  Chile led 2-1 at halftime.

Vidal was once again robbed by Galarza's stunning play after receiving a quick through ball off a turnover.  Vidal could rightfully consider himself to have been deserving of a goal on many occasions throughout this match.  It took until the final minute, but he got what he deserved, powerfully heading home off a Jean Beausejour cross.  Chile win 3-1 and took firm control over one of the four direct qualification places from South America.

Argentina 26 pts +16
Colombia 23 pts +14
Ecuador 21 pts+5
Chile 21 pts 0
Uruguay 16 pts -3
Venezuela 16 pts -4
Peru 14 pts -5
Bolivia 10 pts -9
Paraguay 8 pts -14

Goals
Chile
Eduardo Vargas 16
Alexis Sanchez 18
Arturo Vidal 90

Bolivia
Marcelo Martins 32

Match Reports:
http://www.santiagotimes.cl/sports/soccer/26298-chile-clinches-crucial-3-1-world-cup-qualifier-against-bolivia
http://uk.reuters.com/article/2013/06/12/uk-soccer-world-chile-idUKBRE95B02O20130612

Highlights:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gXIp7Fu5zWM

Full Match Video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TeZUq-hYDk4

Costa Rica 0 - Mexico 0

Mexico City and the frustrated fans of Mexico were hoping to finally see a goal at home in the CONCACAF Fourth Round, having witnesses two scoreless ties previously at Estadio Azteca.  Costa Rica would not mind stealing a point or three on the road.  The Ticos nearly snatched an opener after four minutes, but Joel Campbell could only direct his shot onto the far post, allowing the crowd to breath a sigh of relief.  With ten minutes left in the half, Cristian Bolaños knocked down a Brian Ruiz pass with his back to goal, setting Campbell up for a shot.  Mexico goalkeeper Jose Corona made a nice save and continues to be the only reason Mexico are in qualifying position for Brasil 2014.  The first half ended scoreless.

It would take until the second half for Mexico to register their first decent chance.  Carlos Salcido had come up to support in attack, and he stroked a laser toward the upper ninety, but a flying fist from Costa Rica goalkeeper Keylor Navas provided the save.  Mexico centerback Francisco Rodriguez made a long-distance recovery run to slide tackle the ball away from Kenny Cunningham with a three-on-three opportunity about to come to fruition.  The match ends 0-0, the third straight scoreless draw at home for Mexico.

Match Reports:
http://espnfc.com/news/story/_/id/1474479/mexico-fails-score-home-again-goalless-draw?cc=5901
http://www.goal.com/en-us/match/97678/mexico-vs-costa-rica/report?

Highlights:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5K2HTJqShLE