World Cup Group C preview

GROUP C

England

USA

Algeria

Slovenia

 

When considering all the possible draw scenarios, there were not many options better than this that were available for England. Since there was a decent chance that England would be paired with either France, Portugal or a strong African side, there were no complaints when the draw revealed Algeria, Slovenia and the USA. Maximum points will be expected from these three matches as England seek to end their 44 year wait for World Cup glory. The USA are not known for being a major force in world football but in recent years they have began to improve significantly. A larger majority of players are now playing European football at the highest level which ensures that the national team are stronger when they meet. The States would expect to qualify 2nd in the group and any further progress will be regarded as a bonus.

Surprise package Algeria have reached their first World Cup since 1986 and any progress beyond the first round will be seen as a success. The team defeated arch rivals Egypt in a one off play off match to determine who took the final African place at the World Cup. With the tournament taking place on their continent, the Algerians will be desperate to put in a good showing. They might just be the surprise package of the tournament if they get off to a good start against Slovenia. If Algeria’s qualication for South Africa 2010 was a surprise, the inclusion of Slovenia at the tournament is an even bigger shock. The Slovenians finished second in a fairly weak qualifying group and were drawn against Russia in a Play Off match. Surprisingly, the Russians were defeated over two legs to confirm Slovenia’s place at the World Cup for only the second time in their history. The pressure is off the team now as just being in South Africa is a major achievement. If they can win their opening against Algeria, then who knows what could happen!

TEAM - England

MANAGER – Fabio Capello

QUALIFIED – 1st in European

STAR PLAYER – Wayne Rooney

VERDICT – Qualifed

 

TEAM – USA

MANAGER – Bob Bradley

QUALIFIED – 1st in CONCACAF

STAR PLAYER – Landon Donovon

VERDICT - Qualified

 

TEAM - Algeria

MANAGER – Rabah Saadane

QUALIFIED – 1st in Africa

STAR PLAYER – Karim Ziani

VERDICT – Group exit

 

TEAM – Slovenia

MANAGER - Matjaz Kek

QUALIFIED – 2nd in European – via Play offs

STAR PLAYER – Robert Koren

VERDICT – Group exit

This entry was posted on Saturday, December 5th, 2009 at 5:14 pm by leewilson.