Four in the fray

Then again, he has a side that against Chile began to express itself for the first time in France. Roberto Carlos has rediscovered his touch, as has Rivaldo. But Ronaldo, constantly tracked by two defenders, is still having to do too much on his own. Denilson seems a better option than Bebeto but Zagallo prefers the latter. At the back, while Junior Baiano had his most robust game against Chile, he is still not totally convincing. Consequently, Cesar Sampaio’s finishing, if somewhat fortuitous, remains important.

Memorable Moment

: Rivaldo’s brilliant run against Chile, which unfortunately was wasted by Junior Baiano.

Disappointment

: Ronaldo’s inability to escape the leash, despite all the hype about him beforeand during the tournament.

How far do they go ?

Sentimental favourites with most football followers, but could go out in semi-final against Holland. If they survive that, they will win.

Low expectations

If Mario Zagallo’s confidence is understandable, then the Denmark players’ low expectations are equally so. Yet that could prove a significant factor for the Danes. If they go out relaxed because no one expects them to win they might be able to play the natural, free-flowing football they produced against Nigeria.

Martin Jorgensen, 21, had a terrific game in midfield against the Africans and Ebbe Sand showed what he can do with only two touches in 16 seconds. The brothers Laudrup remain pivotal players and personalities.

Given Norway’s defeat of the Brazilians, the Scandinavians should be in good heart but this central defence could be the one Ronaldo finally breaks free of. If so, not even Peter Schmeichel’s presence will save the Danes. As Brian Laudrup said: "The problem is ifBrazil go 1-0 up."

Memorable Moment: Michael Laudrup’s silken lob for Ebbe Sand’s goal.

Disappointment: Limp draw with South Africa in the league stage of the tournament.

How far do they go?: Expected to go out tomorrow.

Where’s the striker ?

The major concern afflicting all of France this week is which striker is going to score against the famous Italy defence. David Trezeguet and Thierry Henry, who is carrying an injury, are both keen but lack he personality and experience to dominate the Italians (even if, according to Ronaldo, Henry is the revelation of the tournament) while the Newcastle-bound Stephane Guivarc’h looks lightweight.

Zinedine Zidane and Youri Djorkaeff can score goals from midfield but it is an extra burden on the creators’ shoulders.

Yet Zidane’s return is a timely boost and the midfield has a good mix of durability and invention.

Marcel Desailly and Lilian Thuram have been near perfect so far in defence although the goalkeeping of Fabien Barthezdoes not inspire much faith.

Memorable Moment: The look of relief on Aime Jacquet’s face when Laurent Blanc scored against Paraguay.

Disappointment: Nicolas Anelka, David Ginola.

How far do they go?: Back to their chateaux on Saturday morning HAVING lost 1-0.

The Vieri factor

Gianluca Pagliuca has been reliable in goal, the defence has been its usual tight self, the midfield has been cohesive plus, in Christian Vieri, Italy have a forward on form. It should all add up to an Italy victory on Sunday week but there are some doubts. Chile scared the Italian defence with their attacking pair’s _ Zamorano and Salas _ movement and close control and the South Americans also outplayed what can be a one-dimensional midfield. Yet, the fact remains Italy survived and have reached the last eight stage.

The game with France is another that would have graced the final but, providing Dino Baggio can contain Zinedine Zidane anf of course Vieri should give Italy theedge.

Memorable Moment: Roberto Baggio’s penalty against Chile which kick-started Italy’s World Cup.

Disappointment: Alessandro Del Piero. So far.

How far do they go? Could win it but Holland and Brazil appear to have a little extra