To see the Socceroos train overnight ...
     

The Australia and Fulham number one is grateful he has 19 days of preparation in South Africa before their opening game against Germany on June 13.

Schwarzer, who is likely to face Denmark in a warm-up match tomorrow in Johannesburg after recovering from a thumb injury, said: "The ball is difficult.

"You have got to take time to adjust to it. That's why being here so much earlier is enabling us to do that.

"It's not pretty but everyone is in the same boat and you just have to get on with it."

Blackburn midfielder Brett Emerton is unlikely to be risked by coach Pim Verbeek after returning to full training following a calf injury. Harry Kewell also looks certain to sit out the game due to a groin problem.

Denmark have also arrived early in the host nation and coach Morten Olsen is looking forward to the work out.

He said: "The important thing is to adapt to the altitude and prepare for the tournament. I think this will be a challenge for all European teams, who are not used to altitude."

Portugal face Cameroon, anxious to get back on track after their goalless draw against Cape Verde.

Chelsea defender Ricardo Carvalho said: "We could have done a lot better and know we are not in the good form we are supposed to be in.

"We need to work and improve. I hope the lack of rhythm doesn't influence our performance at the World Cup.

"Of course, it's important for the coach (Carlos Queiroz) to have everyone on top form. Some players aren't but we're working in order to be in shape for the World Cup."

Cameroon captain Samuel Eto'o is expected to link up with the squad today after threatening to withdraw from the World Cup after being criticised by former national hero Roger Milla.

The striker had been given leave by coach Paul Le Guen after helping Inter Milan win the Champions League.

Meanwhile Switzerland coach Ottmar Hitzfeld is looking for an improvement from his side when they face Costa Rica in Sion.

They went down in successive matches to Uruguay and Norway after qualifying and Hitzfeld said: "I expect a more cohesive unit on the pitch."

Hakan Yakin and Mario Eggiman will miss the game after suffering muscle problems in training in Crans-Montana but Hitzfeld added: "It is purely a precautionary measure."

To see the Socceroos train overnight ...