The return of Group E means that I am watching only one full match today. Can Australia put Group D on level terms going into the final matchday?
Netherlands 1-0 Japan: If Japan are to stand a chance, they will need a one-man show from talented midfielder Keisuke Honda. But the Dutch should be too much in the end, and that's with Arjen Robben on the bench.
Ghana 1-1 Australia: Intriguing matchup in a group blown wide open. Expect the Socceroos to score, but Ghana may be able to gash the Australian defense like the Germans did. Fingers crossed that both Oceania sides make the last 16.
Cameroon 1-2 Denmark: Loser goes home. The Samuel Eto'o saga continues. The Danes are tough, so expect Africa to lose another knockout stage possibility. Can Nicklas Bendtner play and, if he does, get out of his own way to score?
Villarreal watch: Jozy Altidore didn't do much in the first half against Slovenia, but his knockdown put the ball on a platter for Michael Bradley to bang in the equalizer. He's the USA's best threat going forward and has learned from his time in the EPL. Could he be the fifth striker in the rotation if Garrido sticks with a 4-3-3 (Altidore, Montero, Nilmar, Rossi, and Ruben)? But the club may cash in on his play, at least with a loan deal.
And Villarreal B close out the season at home to Salamanca at 12 noon Eastern time. All of the matches are taking place simultaneously, so don't expect a stream. The squad:
Ds: Joan Oriol, Catalá, Kiko, Carlos Tomás, Costa, Velázquez, Óscar Prats and Fran García.
MFs: Cristóbal, Marcos Gullón, Natxo Insa, Matilla, Hernán Pérez and Nico.
Fs: Joan Tomás and Joselu.
Four C teamers selected: Fran García, Joselu, Nico, and Óscar Prats. Montero, Musacchio, and Ruben already are on vacation, while Mario and Robert Flores are injured.