By Garth Crooks BBC football reporter in Johannesburg |
 Another great day of action in South Africa with a shock 1-0 victory for Serbia against Germany and a rousing 2-2 draw between Slovenia and the United States. As for England's dour draw against Algeria, the less said the better. Here's my 2010 World Cup finals team of the day from Friday 18 June:
Goalkeeper Serbia Serbia had a poor opening game but to beat the Germans particularly in the form they were in was impressive. The keeper from Wigan Athletic played his part with a crucial penalty save. Left-back Algeria Any one of the Algerian back four could have been selected such was England's lack of know how, passion and direction. Centre-back Algeria Algeria were rock solid most of the time against England and despite conceding a lot of corners, the north Africans held firm and made Fabio Capello's men look poor. Centre-back Serbia The Borussia Dortmund defender was excellent and he made a fantastic tackle from the penalty rebound which denied the Germans a second go at that. Very strong throughout. Right-back Slovenia The Slovenian full-back was outstanding, particularly in the first half against the United States. He was the bright spark in a defence which was bullied by the USA. Left midfield Slovenia What a strike and what a footballer. If ever a player could play in the Premier League he is one. England, watch out! Centre midfieldSlovenia Koren was the inspiration in the Slovenian team. Quite why West Brom and Roberto di Matteo can't resolve their differences and retain the talent is a mystery to me. West Brom are the losers there. Centre midfield United States I saw Michael at the end of the game. I don't think I have seen anyone quite as angry about the referee's disallowed goal. He said he could not talk because he couldn't say what he wanted to say. I think that says it all! Right midfield United States Donovan optimised the US spirit. He had an awful first half, but dug in and recovered well to earn his side a crucial point. Striker Slovenia The Cologne forward lead the line brilliantly and frightened the United States to death in the first half. Striker Slovenia Not particularly pleasing on the eye but he was very effective, along with his mate Novakovic in what looks a very dangerous partnership.
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