World Cup 2006 Coming to a Close

World Cup 2006 ends tomorrow, July 9, with the final match between Italy and France. Argentina's Horacio Elizondo to referee soccer World Cup final. Before the match begins, Colombia's Shakira to lead World Cup ceremony.

2006 FIFA WORLD CUP: Europe draws level with South America: (noticias.info): "The 2006 FIFA World Cup™ has given European football a real shot in the arm. With Italy and France contesting Sunday's Final, the old continent will draw level with South America on nine world titles each. "

That was the World Cup that was (Scotmans.com Sport): The World Cup "has been magnificent. From the start to what we hope will be a final to remember it has been one of the great tournaments, with as many dramas and heroes, old and new, as we could have wished for in our wildest dreams. "

It's a huge disappointment to the South American soccer fans that either Argentina or Brazil, or both, aren't competing in the final match. Looking back on the South American teams participation:

South American World Cup view (BBC Sport): "The most surprising aspect of Brazil's World Cup defeat was that many people were so shocked."

Argentina statistics

Argentine pair banned over brawl

Brazil statistics

Parreira waits on Brazil future

Ecuador statistics

Suarez proud of Ecuador's showing

Paraguay statistics

Win crucial to future, says Ruiz

Looking to the future, Colombia enlists government support for 2010 World Cup campaign. The next World Cup will be held in South Africa, and hopes are that World Cup 2014 will be in South America.

And on another soccer front, Peru reaches quarterfinals in Street Soccer World Cup - Street Soccer? Did you know about this?

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