The irony of a team called the All Whites going to South Africa is not lost on some people. A top-four finish within the group would be enough for most of us; the fact that we made it into the World Cup for the first time since 1982 has surprised most. The local bookies are giving odds of 5-1 on us not scoring a goal. But our performance in the friendly against the Aussies has raised hopes a bit. A lot of people were surprised how good the likes of Rory Fallon and Chris Wood looked, and how bad the Aussies were. A goal-less draw against Italy in the second match would bring joy all across New Zealand; a goal would spark mass hysteria.
Men to watch: Teenager Chris Wood is our hottest prospect. From Ryan Nelsen expect an aggressive stance against his old team-mate Roque Santa Cruz, and the likes of Alberto Gilardino.
Weakest link: The absence of vice captain Tim Brown. He was going to be a mainstay in the centre of the park before injuring his shoulder.
The coach: Ricki Herbert has had a fantastic season for country and for his club side, Wellington Phoenix. Expect a defensive 3-5-2 formation.
Best chant: "He's big, he's bad, he's better than his Dad, Rory Fallon, Rory Fallon". (Dad, Kevin, was in the 1982 World Cup squad).
Least-liked opponents: Australia and Vincenzo Grella.
TIPS
Winner:Golden boot: David Villa (Spain).
England: They have the potential to go all the way, but a dodgy John Terry, or whoever partners him in defence, could easily undo it all. Wayne Rooney needs a strike partner. They'll lose in the semi-finals to Holland.
Follow Paul Thornton at twitter.com/realbeard