World Cup Wrap-Up Matchday 20

Paraguay (5)0-0(3) Japan AET

58' JPN Matsui (YC)

72' JPN Nagatomo (YC)

90+3' JPN Honda (YC)

113' JPN Endo (YC)

118' PAR Riveros (YC)

PAR Penalties

O Barreto

O Barrios

O Riveros

O Valdez

O Cardozo

JPN Penalties

O Endo

O Hasebe

X Komano

O Honda

A Long hard fought battle by both sides, who, after a while, seemed content to let a penalty shootout happen. Neither team looked than the other, and the game played out like it should have.

PAR Verdict: Not a fantastic game played by the Paraguayans, but it was a typical performance by them. Not flashy, but about enough to somehow get by. The only team to beat Argentina and Brazil (as well as the only ones to beat Brazil by a multiple goal margin) will play Spain.

JPN Verdict: I wasn't too impressed with the Japanese until their game against Denmark, where they were absolutely lethal with their free kicks. The Japanese played another solid game, and I hope to see football in Asia continue to be a rising force.

Man of the Match: Marcus Tulio Tanaka (JPN)

Spain 1-0 Portugal

63' ESP David Villa (1-0)

74' ESP Xabi Alonso (YC)

80' POR Tiago (YC)

89' POR Costa (RC)

A game mostly controlled by Spain, though Portugal did manage to create some good chances past the sometimes spotty Spanish defense. A moment of brillance from La Furia Roja proved to be the difference separating them from a determined Portuguese defense.

ESP Verdict: Spain is starting to look more and more like Spain every game. the determined Portuguese defense was not eager to allow any chances, but a string of passes from Iniesta to Xavi and his cheeky backheel to David Villa allowed Spain to score the only goal of the game. While they shouldnt be overly proud with their performance, they should be proud they are starting to find their rhythm despite essentially playing with 9 men (yes Torres and Busquets, I'm talking to you). Spain advances to play Paraguay.

POR Verdict: Strong defending and goalkeeping was not enough to save Portugal from defeat against the reigning European Champions, mostly in part due to dismal midfield play. The dazzling counterattack of Simao and Ronaldo never happened, and Portugal had a few good chances but could not find the breakthrough past Casillas.

Men of the Match: Xavi (ESP), David Villa (ESP), Eduardo (POR)