Something strange is happening at this World Cup, with 2010 appearing to be the year of the giant-killing. France lost to South Africa to exit the other day, and now Italy have joined them.

Which begs the question: Will the 2010 World Cup be won by an outsider?

For decades there has been an obvious and undeniable pecking order in international football. Countries such as Brazil, Argentina, Italy, France, and Germany were top dogs, while African, East European, and Asian teams were also-rans.

However, it looks as though this could be changing. OK, so one of Brazil, Argentina, the Netherlands, or England is probably still going to lift the trophy in a couple of weeks, but make this is still a World Cup which has seen the gap between top and bottom cut substantially.

Au revoir, France. Arrivederci, Italy.