Portugal international Deco is the last Barca star left in the World Cup. All 11 Barca players taking part in the World Cup in Germany made it through the first round with their teams. In the second round of the last 16, Germany knocked out Larsson's Sweden, Argentina eliminated Mexico with Rafael Marquez, Portugal did the same with Gio and Van Bommel of Holland and finally Iniesta, Xavi and Puyol of Spain lost to France. Finally, Leo Messi and Saviola (both didn't feature) were knocked out by host Germany, after Argentina lost 4-2 on penalties and also superstar Ronaldinho finally had to say good-bye as Brazil were outplayed by France.


After winning the Spanish League and Champions League double with FC Barcelona, the Portuguese midfielder Deco is looking for a place in the World Cup final. Only obstacle left is France and Zidane.


For Deco, the year 2006 is already unforgetable and the most successful in his career so far. On the 3rd May against Celta Vigo, Barca defended its Spanish League title for the second time in a row. Just two weeks later, on the 17th May in Paris, Barca won the Champions League against Arsenal and were proclaimed Champions of Europe for the second time in their history. Now with the club season of FC Barcelona being over, he is reaching out for the biggest trophy in the world: the World Cup!


Deco is a vital part of the Barca starting eleven, but for Portugal´s coach 'Big Phil' Scolari, Deco is simply irreplaceable, despite having started just two of Portugal's five games. In the first match he did not take part, due to injury but Deco scored a cracker to beat Iran to qualify for the second round. He was rested in the final match of the group stage. Then he showed a great performance against Holland before he was sent off by the referee. Deco had been forced out against England.


Now Deco gets another chance to shine on the world stage against France.


FC Barcelona Blog wishes Deco good luck!