Football

Spain will face their sternest World Cup test against Portugal on Tuesday.

"We have to try to find the best team, the 'gala team' to play against Germany," Maradona said.

The Netherlands start as strong favourites but will not be taking anything for granted on Monday in Durban.

The 25-year-old playmaker picked up a thigh muscle injury in their final Group D match against Ghana.

The Real Madrid center back fell awkwardly on Saturday and had to be carried off the field at North West University Sports Complex.

Extra time goal from Asamoah Gyan steered Ghana in the quarter-finals of the World Cup.

The United States went out of the World Cup four years ago after losing to Ghana in the last group game.

Ivory Coast exit the World Cup despite hammering North Korea 3-0 in their final group match.

Paraguay reached the round of 16 as New Zealand were knocked out.

After one win and one defeat each in their opening games, both nations are level on three points.

The group winner could avoid another high-profile match in the next round if Spain tops Group H.

SA departed the WC at the first hurdle but believe Tuesday's win over France provided for a honourable exit.

South Korea reached the second round of the World Cup by holding Nigeria to a 2-2 draw.

Iniesta was substituted in the 77th minute of Spain's 1-0 opening Group H loss after receiving a hard knock.

Cameroon lost 2-1 to Denmark on Saturday night despite taking an early lead and playing some excellent soccer.

England, France, Spain, Germany and Italy have all failed to live up to expectations so far.