The first upset of the 2010 FIFA World Cup came in Group H. It was a memorable result, although the matches were not particularly exciting. Chile overcame Central American side Honduras 1-0 in the first match of the day. Following that was a memorable upset, when Switzerland beat European champions Spain 1-0 through a second-half strike.
Chile (1) versus Honduras (0) at Mbombela Stadium, Nelspruit
The South American side, Chile, was the favourites in the Hispanic clash between the Spanish-speaking countries. Honduras was playing in only their second World Cup Finals. In their first finals, they drew against Spain and Northern Ireland before falling to Yugoslavia. Honduras had a few moments in the game, but Chile dictated the pace for the majority of the game. Chile took the lead fortuitously in the 34th minute when Jean Beausejour bundled in the ball off a deflection from a Honduran defender.
The Chileans' short, crisp passing helped them keep possession and launch repeated attacks on the hapless Hondurans. The match statistics reflected Chile's dominance as they had 64% of possession and out-shot the Central Americans 22 to 7. Honduras only had one shot on target compared to Chile's five. The play from the Hondurans was scrappy and unorganised and the 1-0 defeat flattered them.
Switzerland (1) versus Spain (0) at Durban Stadium, Durban
The game between Switzerland and Spain resembled the match between Chile and Honduras, except that Switzerland scored and kept the dominant team at bay for the majority if the game. The Spaniards dominated the Swiss in all departments, except the one that really matters - goals scored. Switzerland took the lead when Gelson Fernandes poked the ball into the net within the goal area after Erin Derdiyok fell over Iker Casillas' challenge.
Spain's quality showed but they were unable to break down the organised Swiss defence, even after injury forced Phillipe Senderos off the pitch in the first half. Spain had 74% of the possession and out-shot Switzerland 25 to 9 on the day. Despite the domination, the upset occurred, leaving Switzerland's chances of advancing very high. Given the opening result, Spain would likely have to beat Chile as well in order to advance.
Group H was left interestingly poised after the opening round. Only one result went as expected (Chile versus Honduras). The Swiss upset added some spark to an otherwise dour World Cup Finals that was characterized by cautious play.
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