World cup preview group c
Group C
England
Come on In-ger-land! Yes this year I am actually excited at the prospects of England actually being able to beat any team in world cup, even the Brazilians, Argentinians or Spanish (not on penalties of course)
England have by far the best defence in the tournament, the midfield actually scares teams with the likes of Gerrard, Lampard and Milnar all fighting for midfield spots. We have good quick players on the wings and with Rooney upfront we have a genuine world class forward. Whether we can keep clean sheets is probably the worry or lack of specialist right back, back in Fabio we have the manager for the big time.
Key Player – Wayne Rooney, he is the key for success
Prediction – 1st, maybe America might gives us a sock first game but we will feel confident until semi’s
USA
This is the best America side I have probably seen. They have the experience, the international class players and have a real team spirit. I think many England fans have overlooked the American side for the first game. They ran through Spain at the confeds cup and won’t care who they upset. Also don’t forget the quality they have Oguchi Onyewu, Michael Bradley, Jozy Altidore, Tim Howard, UEFA finalist Clint Dempsey and ask Everton fans what they thought of Landon Donovan. Many good players and very good attacking.
Key Player – Tim Howard, I think he might have to make some vital saves to secure qualifying
Prediction – 2nd
Algeria
Its 24 years since their last appearance at the world cup, coach Rabah Saadane looks to be slowly building a good base of players Madjid Bougherra, Nadir Belhadj, captain Yazid Mansouri, Karim Ziani and Mourad Meghni have all made big leaps in recent years. They aren’t a bad side at all and will push teams further than expected by many.
Key Player – Madjid Bougherra, will have to be the defender supreme and stop teams exposing them at the back. Look out for captain Mansouri and Meghni who is likened to Zidane who was born in Algeria.
Prediction – 3rd/4th, its a straight fight with Slovenia.
Slovenia
Another little known side who have done extremely well under coach Matjaz Kek. Slovenia have good players such as Cologne striker Milivoje Novakovic, keeper Samir Handanovic and captain and midfield creator Robert Koren, West Brom midfielder will probably fancy his chances against the Algerians but will be wary of a hiding from England and won’t fancy playing the Americans.
Key Player – Milivoje Novakovic, goals will be hard to come by in world cup finals and he must score.
Prediction – 4th if they don’t get off to a flyer.
Danny Denhard
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