THE LAST three World Cup-related matches Switzerland and France have tussled it out, fans left with draws. Only two goals scored in those three draws. This trend will have to end. And where else than in the unpredictable Brazil!

En route to Germany 2006, Switzerland and France were in the same qualifying group. Home and away, they played draws. Then in WC group stages, like now, they met. Another draw. But not anymore.

The Swiss play with a lot of disciple, especially in defence. They qualified for Brazil without losing a game and that form will not just end in the hands of a team that laboured to qualify.

And after that stoppage time winner against a spirited Ecuador, the Swiss have navigated their toughest opponent and France will be easier facing that the South Americans. A win for Ottmar Hitzfeld’s boys.

In the other group game, a horrendous Horundas will join Spain, Australia and Cameroon in flagging a taxi to the airport. Honduras showed some value when they held England to a draw in the final warm-up before the WC proper. 

But against France, they were so blasé it was like watching paint dry.  That performance makes everyone believe Luis Suarez, the Honduras coach, will be packing his luggage. But not without a fight. Ecuador will have to earn their win.

But before all the evening drama, Italy and Costa Rica, the two teams with victories in their opening Group D games, will face off. I never rated Italy highly, but Pirlo proved me wrong. Can he do it again today? 

Costa Rica proved against group favourites Uruguay that they are not another Cameroon in disguise. Coming from behind to beat Uruguay was a shocker, and ‘small teams’ usually build on such gutsy performances to progress. Costa Rica surely have a ticket in the next round, but first, they need this draw against Italy.