Be Prepared to See Goalkeeper Changes!

There have already been injuries, red cards, and poor performances by goalkeepers during the first round of World Cup matches.  What does that mean for ShutoutCentral – more keeper gloves!  What changes will these coaches make?

Italy’s Gianluigi Buffon is rumored to have a herniated disc in his back and is unlikely to start in the New Zealand match and could possibly miss the rest of the World Cup.  This is a big blow to the Italians with Buffon’s experience, but it’s a great window of opportunity for keeper Federico Marchetti.

United States goalkeeper Tim Howard suffered an injury during the match against England on the 12th.  He is expected to play against Slovenia.  If for some reason he is not fit the US will have to choose between goalkeepers Brad Guzan and Marcus Hahnemann.

South Africa’s Moneeb Josephs had a rough day against Uruguay stepping in after starting keeper Itumeleng Khune was red carded and facing a penalty kick.  Josephs conceded a second goal later in the game on a defensive laps.  He will get the start again against France on the 22nd.

Fawzi Chaouchi of Algeria cost his team 3 points in Group C with his goalkeeping error.  But that is not what could keep him on the sidelines for the game against England.  Algeria’s starting keeper could be out with a sprained knee.  Algeria will then have to decide between Lounes Gaouaoui and Rais M’Bolhi.

England’s Robert Green may have gotten over his costly mistake during the rivalry match against the United States, but the press hasn’t – has the English coaching staff?  England’s head coach, Fabio Capello has his starting 11, but will not tell Green if he’s starting until 2 hours before kick off.  We know veteran David James is itching for the chance to show he deserved the starting spot.  Most likely, England will give Green the benefit of the doubt and start him against Algeria on the 18th.

Check out all the goalkeeper blunders on our post here!