Soccer: Written off already

While All Whites coach Ricki Herbert was expressing satisfaction at his side's minnows' preparations after their final practice match ended in a 2-0 loss to Chile, French sports daily L'Equipe has written New Zealand off.

In their latest edition, the newspaper said: "If the All Whites score a goal, the whole country will be satisfied. If they take a point they will be received as heros on their return. If they progress beyond the pool stage you will see a statue erected in Wellington. Unfortunately it is possible, that not even the first will happen."