World Cup predictions for today’s Group E and Group F games featuring Italy, Brazil and the Ivory Coast

The Dutch didn’t exactly look like world beaters yesterday – but what a strike from Sneijder; let’s hope that’s the last we see of Harry Kewell after his characteristic 25-minute cameo resulted in a sending off which probably helped Australia; and it’s goodbye to Cameroon – if they couldn’t defend against the Danes, the chances of surviving against better teams were slim.

What’s happening at the World Cup today?

Slovakia v Paraguay (Mangaung/Bloemfontein) 12.30pm

How conceding in the last minute against New Zealand will affect Slovakian morale remains to be seen. Their opponents should certainly be buoyed by the point gained against Italy. Whoever wins will probably qualify but it’s the Slovakians who need three points most – they play Italy last.

Prediction: Slovakia WIN

Italy v New Zealand (Nelspruit) 3pm

OK, the defending champions aren’t much good, but they should have enough in their limited armoury to see off New Zealand. Right?

Prediction: Italy WIN

Brazil v Ivory Coast (Johannesburg) 7.30pm

This is a tough one to call. The Brazilians barely got out of second gear against South Korea, while the Ivory Coast rode their luck against Portugal. Demanding final games are just days away, so both must do much better today. Hopefully this means we will see lots of attacking and a high scoring draw.

Prediction: DRAW

The World Cup Bafana Bafana 2010 prediction success rate after yesterday’s games: 11/26