By TRAVIS CLARK
With just two World Cup qualifying matches left for just about every country, it's the last chance for many countries to make a push at a spot in South Africa next year. Perhaps the best match slated for this weekend is the matchup between Germany and Russia.
It's all to play for in this one. Germany has a one point lead on Russia in Group 4, having triumphed 2-1 when the two previously met in Germany just over a year ago. Guus Hiddink has a healthy Andrei Arshavin at his disposal this weekend, and the winner will have the clear advantage heading into the final round of matches next Wednesday.
Adding further intrigue, the match will take place at Luzhniki Stadium, a stadium with a turf field in Moscow. Russia has shown that they are a talented nation, and while a win wouldn't guarantee qualification, their final match is a winnable one against Azerbaijan.
Here's a look at a few other important qualifiers around the world:
Sweden vs. Denmark
Denmark seemed to have Group 1 locked up, but a surprising loss to Albania means that there is much to play for in Saturday's match in Copenhagen. If Denmark manages to pull off the victory, they'll qualify for the World Cup. If Sweden manages to win and Portugal draws, Sweden will secure at least a playoff berth.
Republic of Ireland vs. Italy
Sealing a spot in South Africa is on the minds of the defending champs, who will do so with either a win or tie against the Republic of Ireland. Getting a result won't be easy against an Irish side looking to return to the World Cup for the first time since 2002. A win won't be enough on Saturday, but it would bring Ireland closer to at least a playoff spot.
Togo vs. Cameroon
Two of the world's most well-known strikers look to keep their respective country's hopes of playing in the first World Cup held in Africa. Samuel Eto'o and Cameroon are the Group A leaders and could qualify if they defeat Emmanuel Adebayor's Togo side and Gabon also loses to Morocco. Things will come down to the final day if Togo manages to grab at least a draw.
New Zealand vs. Bahrain
The first leg of the Ocenia-AFC playoff begins Saturday in Bahrain on Saturday. New Zealand is looking to make their first World Cup since 1982 while Bahrain has never made a World Cup appearance. New Zealand might have to take care of business without former D.C. United defender Ryan Nelsen, who continues to recover from injury.
Argentina vs. Peru
Argentina finally gets some relief this weekend, hosting CONMEBOL bottom feeders Peru. Not that they'll be taking them lightly, as Lionel Messi's side only managed a 1-1 draw in the corresponding fixture. A win would bring some relief, and could guarantee at least a playoff spot for Argentina, but anything short of that could spell disaster.
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