FIFA WORLD CUP 2010 : Switzerland Vs Honduras analysis Swiss can defeat Hondurans
When Switzerland and Honduras meet in their final fixture of Group H, both teams aim to win in order to stand a chance of progressing. Honduras, however, have no points, owing to two defeats by Chile and Spain in their two games. They only stand a surreal chance of progressing to the next round. Swiss, on the other hand, have a much better chance at qualifying, needing a win and a better goal difference than the Spanish, should the La Furia defeat the Chileans.
Switzerland, who perhaps pulled the greatest upset of this World Cup by defeating Spain, were all set to qualify for the next round. However, having suffered defeat at the hands of the all-action Chile side meant that the qualifications for the next round would go to the final day. At present, they are tied with Spain with two points, but currently hold the number three spot due to the superior goal difference of the Spanish. A win against Honduras, and a draw or win for Chile, would see the Swiss qualify. They also have a chance of topping the group. They need to overcome Honduras, hope that Spain defeats Chile, and that they have better goal difference than both of them.
Group H is therefore tense, unexpected and anything can happen. There is no room for error for any team, with things being so tight for all the teams that it may just come down to goal difference, goals conceded, goals scored or if a side has defeated the other.
On the other hand, Honduras would want to defeat the Swiss with a wide margin, and hope for a favourable yet unrealistic turn of events if they are to qualify. The chances of qualifying, are therefore, bleak. Defeating the Swiss would give them 3 points, levelling with the Swiss. They would then hope that Chile overcomes the European champions. This would level them with the Swiss as well as the Spanish. It would then come down to goal difference to decide for the second spot. Such are the chances for them to qualify. It may seem highly unlikely and unrealistic for them to qualify, they are still expected to give their all as football is just too unexpected. The Swiss, however, seem like the obvious favourites of winning this contest.
The Swiss would be without their first choice defender Philippe Senderos. He’s been sidelined after suffering an ankle injury following his match against Spain. Switzerland may also be without Striker Eren Derdiyok, after he pulled a hamstring injury during training on Wednesday. Valon Behrami is suspended after receiving a red card against Chile, with Tranquillo Barnetta expected to replace him. Blaise Nkufo, who scored five goals for his country in qualifying for the finals, is expected to be included in the starting XI, with perhaps Derdiyok (if fit) or skipper Alexander Frei starting alongside him.
Honduras was expected to lose all their matches, having being pitted against Chile, Spain and Switzerland in Group H. So far, they’ve lived up to that expectation, having being demolished by both Chile and Spain. Honduras is yet to win a match in World Cup finals, and would be hopeful to record their maiden win. Honduras enjoys a full side, with no injuries or suspensions.
Most pundits expect this to be an open game, with plenty of space for both sides. Honduras should therefore look to utilize the space to their advantage and create some lucky or magical through balls to disrupt the Swiss defence. Honduras is expected to crash out of this World Cup, as the Swiss may prove too tough for them. They would perhaps be playing for pride, and may want to bow out in style. Standing an impractical chance, they may well be playing for the unexpected as they having nothing to lose.
Honduras, have proved to be the whipping boys of the Group, having lost both their games of the World Cup. Castrol Football Rankings, however, considers this match to be a close call. Switzerland are just given a measly 38% chance to win, with Honduras a 33% chance to win. A draw is put at 29%. Still, it is highly likely that the Swiss will overcome Honduras with perhaps a 2-0 victory by frustrating the Hondurans with a tight defence. This may well be followed by effective counter attacks by the Swiss, which would challenge the Honduran defence and the goal keeper.
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