World Cup Countdown: Van Nistelrooy accepts his Dutch career is over

8 days to go

(GETTY IMAGES)

Former Manchester United and Real Madrid striker Ruud van Nistelrooy believes his international career is over after being left out of Bert van Marwijk's Netherlands squad. The 33-year-old struggled with a knee injury this season but finished the campaign strongly after joining Hamburg. "I feel I could have helped the team," he said. "But now my World Cup dream is shattered. I think my international career is over."

With virtually none of their native fans travelling to South Africa, North Korea will benefit from the support of neighbouring Chinese fans. The majority of the Northern Korean population are unable to attend due to poverty and visa controls. However, the Chinese have rallied to support their neighbours, distributing nearly 1,000 tickets to fans, including a group of musicians and actors sent to previous World Cups to support China. With a group including Brazil, Portugal and Ivory Coast, the Koreans may need all the backing they can get...

Highlights of the day

Quote of the day

"I've spoken about Harry Kewell and I'm willing to speak about Harry again. Harry is special, so you can always take a risk with one player like him. If Harry is fit he can be a special player, so I will take a risk with Harry."

Harry Kewell will be hoping commentators mention his name as much as Australia coach Pim Verbeek

Jingoism of the day

"Arabs don't believe in Algeria. We expect Algeria to draw with Slovenia, be humiliated against England and lose against USA. [Rabah] Saadane's side lack the experience, quality and even the motivation to qualify."

Yaman Zeitouni, of Eurosport Arabia, does his bit to stir World Cup fever

Outburst of the day

"If we don't do well in the World Cup, people care for a little bit. But if England doesn't do well, it is absolutely devastating to their country, their families, to their people."

Landon Donovan learnt a lot in his three months on loan at Everton