CCTV.COM 2002-06-03 10:06:11
The World Cup’s third day saw four matches featuring Groups B and F. The main focus was on Group F, the group of death in which only two teams will survive the deadly competition between Sweden, England, Nigeria and the mighty Argentina. Argentina took the first step towards survival, beating Nigeria ONE－NIL. With the victory, Argentina enjoy a favorable position in Group F, while England and Sweden will not be happy with their 1－1 draw. In Group B, South Africa drew Paraguay 2－2.
Hugely favored Argentina crushed Nigeria 1－0 in the World Cup Group F match with a 63rd minute header from Gabriel Batistuta.
Batistuta headed the ball into the back of the net from Juan Sebastian Veron's left－sided corner. It was Batistuta's 10th World Cup goal and his 56th international goal in 76 games.
Nigeria seemed to come alive after the Argentina goal, and produced their best attacking play of the match. But it was too little, too late.
Argentina's next match is the much－awaited clash with England in Sapporo on June 7.
The other match in Group F was between Sweden and England. Sweden kept a 34－year－long unbeaten record against England by rallying to secure a 1－1 draw.
Midfielder Niclas Alexandersson cancelled out Sol Campbell's first－half goal for England, who have not beaten Sweden in their last 10 encounters.
Alexandersson's equalizer came in the form of a 20－meter drive on goal as he exploited an error by England defender Danny Mills.
Group B kicked－off with a dramatic draw as South Africa got a late penalty kick from Quinton Fortune to even up the score against Paraguay. The South Americans were left devastated after giving up a two－goal lead with half an hour to play.
Editor:Zhong; May CCTV.com
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