Mexico's Javier Hernandez attends a practice session at a training camp outside Johannesburg June 24, 2010. Mexico will play against Argentina in their 2010 World Cup second round soccer match in Johannesburg on June 27. -Photo by Reuters

JOHANNESBURG: Mexican “Little Pea” Javier Hernandez, the future Manchester United man reaching a top speed of 32.15 kph, ahead of 31.57 kph for Avraam Papadopoulos of Greece, has picked up the accolade for the fastest player on show to date, according to official FIFA statistics released on Saturday.

Japan’s Keisuke Honda proved such a handful for defenders in the World Cup first round that he was the most-fouled player, according to the stats .

The enterprising Japanese have clearly been wreaking havoc with opposing defences as the second most-fouled star is teammate Yuji Nakazawa.

At least they didn’t have to cross paths with New Zealand as two of their stars were found to have committed the most fouls — Rory Fallon 15 in total ahead of 13 by teammate Chris Killen and Abou Diaby of France.

Meanwhile, four strikers are neck and neck in the race for the Golden Boot for tournament top scorer.

Gonzalo Higuain of Argentina hit the only hat-trick so far to join Spain’s David Villa, Robert Vittek of Slovakia and Luis Suarez of Uruguay on three goals.

Ironically, Argentine superstar Lionel Messi has yet to open his account — although he can point to a tournament-high 11 shots on target. -AFP