Arsenal boys help their teams through to knock out stage of World Cup 2006

Both Thierry Henry and Philipe Senderos got on the score sheets for their respective teams tonight. Both France and Switzerland won 2-0 meaning that Switzerland go through as group winners with a very impressive record not conceding and goals in the opening 3 games.

Senderos has looked the part for the Swiss, possibly he's been the most impressive Arsenal player on display thus far. Certainly tonight's typical centre back break your nose to score with a powerful header goal will not have done his reputation any harm at all. I'm certain that this competition will leave a couple of the Arsenal youngsters looking a whole stage better for next season. Already Fabregas has been a stand out player for Spain. Reyes setup Spain's only goal today. Senderos has looked commanding. Rosicky was the Czech's best player and Adebayor was by far Togo's best player although his off the field antics have got me rather worried as to his mental state.

As far as Arsenal players meeting in the knockout stages, there are some interesting prospects. Fabregas will get to tussle with Vieira again as Spain meet France in what should be a very interesting match. Everyone is building Spain up and writing off France. Recipe for an upset if you ask me. Also it'll be interesting to see if Holland can get past Portugal, if they do surely the impressive Van Persie will need to be on form along with Robben. Will Freddie be able to score against Lehmann when Sweden meet Germany? Also will Tevez get to keep his place against Mexico. The two Corinthians players for Argentina have looked awesome. It'll be interesting to see if Corinthians / MSI can keep them in Brazil.

The group stages are over. The World Cup begins now...