Author: Nick Dorrington

Mexico arrive in South Africa as CONCACAF giants, but what that counts for on the world stage is anyone’s guess. We profile Mexico, in Group A of the World Cup.

Uruguay could be a dark horse for the World Cup. The South Americans find themselves in Group A and we profile their squad.

Players moan about it, coaches curse it and fans buy it. The World Cup ball is a talking point. For every tournament it evolves, but what has never been in doubt is the need for it.

In world derbies they don’t come much bigger than Boca Juniors v River Plate. Argentina’s Superclasico has produced some wonderful moments and remains a must see.

While the planet focuses on the World Cup this summer, Colombia are left to once again rue missing out. However, the South Americans are determined to rediscover the glory days of Carlos Valderrama and co.

In 2004, an Argentina legend arrived in England’s fourth tier to manage Oxford United. Ramon Diaz had done most of his coaching in South America and did not last long.

Argentina and Boca Juniors legend Francisco Varallo recently celebrated his 100th birthday. The only player still alive from the first World Cup final, his career was an interesting one.

Alvaro Recoba could have established himself at the top of the game, had he had a little extra mental toughness. Now Uruguayans are getting excited about another schemer, Nicolas Lodeiro.

German legend Lothar Matthäus has already managed in some of the most unlikely places in his efforts to breakthrough as a coach. Now he is heading to Argentina.

San Lorenzo have seen their fortunes slide dramatically in the past year and fan revolt has led to changes. The answer many hope lies in form of former River Plate coach Diego Simeone.