No tie breaks making a mockery of Tennis

After John Isner and Nicolas Mahut's marathon match at Wimbledon finally finished yesterday, one thing has become glaringly evident as a result.

This is that tie breaks need to be installed into final sets.

Despite all the agony and drama in the over eleven hour match, the fact that it could seemingly go on forever makes tennis look like a joke.

Why can't the final set be decided on a tie break like the rest of the sets in the match?

It is a perfectly fair and reasonable way in which to decide the winner, rather than make them stomp through like zombies.

Isner and Mahut were simply sapped of all energy, and think of the strain of Mahut mentally now that he has finally lost the match.

He could easily break mentally after losing such a contest, let's just hope he doesn't allow that to happen and can bounce back.

Then there is Isner, who is also competing in the mixed doubles.

Along with the obvious back log of matches, Isner now has mixed doubles and a second round singles match to contend with.

All while every else has progressed a further round.

I don't know about you (and i'm sure many love the fact it could be never ending), but to me having no tie break in the final set makes tennis the laughing stock of the sporting world.

Have England turned a corner?

Away from all the aggro of the will they won't they situation enrolling in South Africa, a different set of home internationals has just done the unthinkable down under.

A 21-20 victory for Martin Johnson's Rugby Union side could've saved the ex Leicester Tiger from the axe, with a first win in Australia since the remarkable World Cup Triumph seven years ago providing a nation with fresh promise.

This first win over Tri-Nation opposition since the 2007 World Cup, highlighted a number of things that both pundits and fans alike have been calling for for a long time.

Ben Foden is a natural full back, and after barely featuring it is refreshing to now see him becoming something of a regular in the national set up.

His out put is integral to any potential future success, with his running game being the strong point for the Northampton Saint.

However it was his team mate Chris Ashton and Ben Youngs who were the stand out performers on Saturday.

There is one common element among these names, young fresh talent emerging that is finally being given a chance to shine.

Both Ashton and Youngs grabbed a try a piece, with the wily nous showed by Youngs showing that he could be a main player for years to come.

It is Ashton though that should get the appetite going.

Last seasons top try scorer by a long margin should have featured earlier for the national side, and should have been given more of a chance during the Six Nations.

It is good to know that in Johnson, we have a man who isn't prepared to change things if he's done it wrong the first time.

Maybe something a certain Mr. Capello should take note of.

The mix between youth and experience in the side is perfect, and it is a situation that all players involved could learn from and prosper.

The domination of the pack continued from the first game, but after seeing that sheer physical power won't win games alone England mixed it up.

The Aussie threat was taken down a notch if not entirely stopped, with some of their running skill on show in the first game switching sides.

With that blend of power and pace they came back to level the series 1-1.

Let's all pray that it isn't another false dawn served up from an English national side.

Vuvuzela's: Harmless fun or football menace?

Believe it or not the World Cup has now been underway for a few days, and what has been the main talking point thus far?

The poor standard in most games, Germany's thrashing of Australia, Rob Green's howler, no it is infact a strange instrument that a few weeks ago most of the world had never even heard of.

Whether it's a heard of Buffalo or a swarm of bee's you've likened them to, the Vuvuzela has even sparked debate at the top table of football.

Fifa have today announced that they will not be banning this controversial item, but why should they surely it's just a way of expression.

The English sing and the Africans blow horns, how can such an insignificant thing become a source for such trivial debate.

Well the truth is they aren't really insignificant, as a number of top stars in the game have voiced concerns with their inclusion in the World Cup.

Firstly we were told that it was putting players off during there game, with Cristiano Ronaldo saying he couldn't concentrate even before stepping onto the world stage.

And although on the surface this seems unfair, does the atmosphere Stoke City's Britannia Stadium not put off rival teams week on week.

You can't ban people from singing if players can't concentrate, therefore banning Vuvuzela's is off the table too.

The reason that commentators can't be heard is also trivial, and one that English television doesn't seem to suffer with.

However if they are used to wake up players in the middle of the night, as Patrice Evra suggested, then that is another matter altogether.

But even if they are banned from stadiums they could still be used outside of it, so all the main reasons suggested for banning don't really seem believable.

They are a part of Africa and this is there stage, let them do with it what they wish to ensure their legacy is a long one.

World Cup stadia

Green Point

This is one of the many newly built stadia that will feature in this years World Cup, situated in the capital Cape Town it is barely six months old. With a capacity of just over 64,000 it is located by the ocean, with the beautiful mountainous backdrop making it one of the more picturesque arenas to be used. Following the footballing spectacle it will become a multi propose arena, hosting other major events as well as concerts. In addition to hosting England's second game of the finals against Algeria, it will also host one of the semi-finals.

Port Elizabeth

Also known as the Nelson Mandela Bay stadium, England will also get a taste of action here when they take on Slovenia in the final group game. Upon completion last year it become it become the first football dedicated stadium in this city, and it is situation on the North End Lake. One of the first test for the stadium was to host the Soweto derby between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs, with it seemingly passing as it will host the third place play-off.

Durban

The Moses Mabhiba Stadium is one of the more interesting to be used in this years finals. Also a newly purpose build arena, it has an arch over the stadium which can be accessed by cable car. A view which is some 106m above the pitch, but provides stunning views of the surrounding area. It's biggest match of the tournament will be to host the other semi-final match, which should sell out the 62,750 arena.

Bloemfontein

One of the most sport mad areas of the city, the locals in Bloemfontein are known to be somewhat fanatical when it comes to sporting events. The Free State Stadium recently had an upgrade in capacity from 38,000 to 40,911, and during it's preparations it hosted the Confederations Cup semi-final between USA and Spain last year. Which the USA shocked the footballing world in, by beating the European Champions.

Johannesburg

The Soccer City Stadium is the crown jewel in South Africa's World Cup, and will host this years World Cup final. Originally built in 1987, it recently had an upgrade to push the capacity up to 88,460. This stadium has seen many iconic scenes over the years, most importantly it hosted the first mass rally following the release of Nelson Mandela in 1990.

Rustenburg

Another stadium that has been upgraded since its completion in 1999, the Royal Bafokeng Stadium is capable of holding a capacity crows of 38,646. England will be the first ones to test it out in this years World Cup when they

take on the USA on Saturday, and whoever wins group C will be back again for their round of 16 match up.

Pretoria

One of the oldest Stadiums in South Africa, Loftus Versfeld was originally built in 1906. It recently underwent construction which was completed in 2008, which pushed the capacity up to 42,858. Over the years it has held both football and rugby matches.

Nelspruit

The Mbombela stadium is another that is newly built for this summers World Cup, and it has a capacity of 40,292. The legacy of this stadium will be longer reaching and long lasting, as before this there was no football Stadiums in the Nelspruit region.

Polokwane

The Peter Mokaba stadium is named after a leading figure in the fight against the Apartheid regime, who was born in Polokwane. It is yet another that is purpose built for this years World Cup, and has a capacity of 41,733.

Johannesburg

Ellis Park was for many decades the home of Rugby within South Africa since it was built in 1928. It was demolished and rebuilt in 1982, and was the scene of South Africa's triumph in the 1995 Rugby World Cup. Now home to the Orlando Pirates it also hosted the final of last years Confederations Cup, and recently underwent a minor upgrade to push the capacity up to 55,686.

Group H

Spain - World Ranking 2

Most people's favourites to scoop the title this summer, Spain picked up where they left off after winning Euro 2008. They breezed through their qualifying campaign, and if they can avoid the injury crisis they is plaguing most other teams they could complete the international double. Although it has been announced Andres Iniesta has suffered injury, with it yet unannounced how long he could be out.

Preparation for the tournament didn't get off to the best of starts, after being knocked out by USA. However they have put that behind them and continued to beat everyone that is put before them.

Strengths

Where do you start? They are full of confidence after their European Championships win two years ago, with many of heir squad coming from Barcelona who have endured two years of dominance in the Spanish league.

They also have the most talented team in tournament by a distance, and if they perform as everyone knows they can they will simply be unstoppable.

Weaknesses

Their seems to be only one real weakness to this Spain side, and that is their age old problem of not performing in big tournaments. Most of the nation are now hoping that is behind them following their Euro success, but it remains to be seen if they can cope with the pressure on the biggest stage of all.

Key Man - Xavi

The Barcelona midfielder has just signed a contract extension with the Catalan club, and after seemingly winning everything their is to win in the last two years all that is left is the World Cup. He dominates games with ease, equally capable of breaking up play and controlling attacks. And if Iniesta can get fit, the two will dominate just as they do for Barcelona.

One to Watch - Juan Manuel Mata

The Valencia winger may not feature all the time for his nation, but is wanted by top clubs all around Europe which highlights his ability. With pace mixed with the ability to pass, cross and shoot he could be a crucial impact sub for Spain if they are in dire straits.

Manager - Vicente Del Bosque

The former Real Madrid manager dominated during his time in the Spanish capital, and is now ready to repeat that as manager of his national side. He took over from Luis Aragones after the 2008 triumph, and he now wants to add that last piece of silverware to his mantle.

Odds - 4/1

Prediction - Will go all the way and be the first European side to win a World Cup outside of Europe.

Chile - World Ranking 15

Chile captured the attention of the world when qualifying for this years world cup. They finished just one point behind Brazil, had the most wins with 10 and were top scorers as they bagged 33 goals.

This is their first World Cup since France 1998, when the talented duo Marcelo Salas and Ivan Zamorano were the deadly duo up front. Chile won't be highly fancied, but Marcelo Bielsa has got a good group of players who importantly have plenty of confidence when they take to the pitch. They are a relatively young side but are still experienced enough not to be over awed when the time comes.

Strengths

Bielsa has a tight group of players, who all believe in each others ability and believe they can make a success of themselves in South Africa this summer. With some players playing in South America or at lower European sides, a good showing could earn them lucrative moves away.

However despite this they do have players who play or have played towards the top end of the game, and the experience they bring to this group of players will be key in them reaching the second round.

Weaknesses

Although having a good group is good, the truth is they are still lacking any world class talent. In a World Cup where sides are more or less filled with top class talent, this could prove to be their downfall.

Key Man - Alexis Sanchez

After starting his career at Colo Colo he made an immediate impression, and earned the nickname of 'el nino maravilla' or 'wonder boy'. After a loan spell at River Plate where he helped them win the title, Udinese spent a bargain £2m to take him Italy. His slight frame makes him a tricky customer, and he is crucial in Chile's style of play.

One to Watch - Matias Fernandez

The Sporting Lisbon play maker can make things happen in the blink of an eye. He has great technique as well dribbling skills, but his most potent weapon will be his effect from dead ball situations in which he is something of a specialist.

Manager - Marcelo Bielsa

After coaching Argentina during their disastrous 2002 World Cup campaign, he restored some of his reputation by winning World Cup gold two years later. Now he is heading back to the grandest stage of all, determined to put right the wrongs that were made eight years ago.

Odds - 50/1

Prediction - Should secure second place in the group, but progression could come to a halt in the second round.

Honduras -World Ranking 40

The Hondurans made it to South Africa by the skin of their teeth after a USA equaliser against Costa Rica saw them through on goal difference. They have only made it to one World Cup before finishing bottom, when Northern Ireland shocked Spain into top spot in their group in 1982. However despite propping up the group then they could actually have their work cut out to beat their performance, as they secured two draws and a loss. Coach Reinaldo Rueda will certainly have his work cut out this summer.

Strengths

Experiences of some of their players in Europe will be crucial, especially Wilson Palacios (see key man below) who will be testing himself in the Champions league next season and has performed very well in the Premiership during his time in England. David Suazo, whose been fluttering aroung Italy for years, is also one of the more senior players who could be crucial.

They also have the element of surprise, as the other countries in the group will no doubt not know a lot about Honduras.

Weaknesses

After relying on goal difference to qualify they don't have a great deal of quality in the squad. It is this lack of world class talent that could ultimately cost them their place in South Africa this summer.

Key Man - Wilson Palacios

Along with David Suazo, Palacios will be looked upon by the squad and the rest of the country as the men who carry their hopes. The robust, hard tackling midfield man has been crucial to Spurs season as they made the Champion League after their fourth place finish in the Premiership. He played a key part in aiding Honduras' qualification, and will need to be on top form to stop his side leaking goals.

One to Watch - Carlos Pavon

To describe Carlos Pavon as experienced would fall well short of the mark. The 36-year-old striker has moved clubs an incredible 20 times, but has more importantly manged to find the net at more or less everyone of his clubs. He is the all time leading scorer for his country, finding the back of the net 57 times in 100 games and despite his age he will be key this summer.

Manager - Reinaldo Rueda

53-year-old Colombian coach Rueda is in his third year as Honduras boss, and is regarded as a success by the fans of the national side. However the University professor will have to work wonders if Honduras are to make the second round.

Odds - 1000/1

Prediction - Will struggle to get a point, and will bow out at the first hurdle.

Switzerland - World Ranking 24

After topping their qualification group you could be forgiven for thinking that Switzerland are in good form, however on closer inspection you will see the relatively easy group they had to navigate through to reach South Africa. Despite this though they still managed one of the more unlikely results in the qualifying phase, a 2-1 loss to a Luxembourg team containing only two professional players on home soil.

Alexander Frei is crucial to their progress, with his injury in the first game of Euro 2008 which Switzerland co-hosted ending their chance of progression. Ottmar Hitzfeld at the helm will be equally as important, his experience could go a long way to snaring second spot in the group behind Spain.

Strengths

With Hitzfeld as manager they have a man who has acheived more than most in the game, and crucially knows how to win. He will no doubt have to utilise all his past experience in ensuring that his side can reach the last 16 phase.

In addition the blend between youth and experience could be crucial to their progress, or at the least will give some younger players in the squad vital game time at the highest level.

Weaknesses

The over reliance on Frei and Tranquillo Barnetta could be a problem, as highlighted at the European Championships two years ago. Other players in the squad will have to step up should they reach the next round

Key Man - Alexander Frei

30-year-old FC Basel striker Frei has top experience at clubs around Europe, particularly in Germany. He is the captain and all time top scorer for his country with 40 goals in 73 games, and if he can stay fit could prove to be that vital bit of quality that this side needs.

One to Watch - Tranquillo Barnetta

In the last World Cup Barnetta was shortlisted for the best young player award, after which his form continued and he cemented his place in the Bayer Leverkusen first team. This season has arguably been his best so far as he helped them to an unbeaten first half of the season, his presence in midfield could just provide a spark that they need to up performances and reach the next round.

Manager - Ottmar Hitzfeld

One of only two managers to have won the Champions League with two different clubs, is the biggest name connected with this squad. His vast experience has been well documented, and his appointment at a lower nation was a big coup for the Swiss. The 61-year-old has twice been voted World Coach of the year, and is entering his third year in this job.

Odds - 200/1

Prediction - Have a chance to reach the second round, but won't get much further.

Next Time

Come back tomorrow when I will be looking at the Stadiums that are to be used in this years World Cup.

Group G

Brazil - World Ranking 1

After enduring a difficult spell at the helm of the Brazilian national side, Dunga has come out the other side and is now enjoying a successful spell. They breezed to the top of their qualifying group, and completed a worthwhile warm up by winning the Confederations Cup last summer.

The last time Brazil failed to get past the group stage was in 1966, so there isn't really a group of death to the Brazilians. Although it isn't the best group of players they've took to a tournament, Dunga has got them playing well and with confidence and they are second favourites behind Spain.

Strengths

Luis Fabiano has been a revelation after eventually been given a chance to impress in the national fold. He looks like a born number nine, and is excelling in this current squad. If anyone is to challenge Euro 2008 top scorer David Villa for that mantle this Summer, it looks like it could well be Brazil's Sevilla front man.

Experience is the name of the game for Brazil, with most of those selected having been to major tournament and plying their trade at top clubs. In addition to this, there is the fact that no European side has won a World Cup held outside of Europe. Something that will no doubt have the Samba stars brimming with confidence.

Weaknesses

While experience is a good thing in a squad, there usually has to be a good mix with youth for a side to ultimately become successful. With nine players selected over 30 and only 2 at 25 being the youngest, it could become a problem that affects progress in the latter stages.

This team is also not as strong as Brazil sides we have seen in the past, and that fear factor no longer seems to exist that once saw them breeze into the later rounds on reputation alone.

Key Man - Luis Fabiano

A man possessed while wearing a Brazil shirt, he simply can't stop scoring. His 25 goals in 38 appearances is up their with the best in the world, and he will really need to hit this type of form if Brazil are to become six time champions. A move to the Premier League has surrounded Fabiano for well over a year, and a successful tournament could spark bids from all over Europe.

One to Watch - Daniel Alves

Barcelona's marauding right-back is often seen charging up the touch line, setting up attack after attack for both club and country. The Catalan club signed Alves for a fee that could eventually rise to 40m Euros from Sevilla, and he won the treble in his first season at the club. He could be key in the assist stakes for Brazil this summer.

Manager - Dunga

Brazil's manager knows what it is like to win a World Cup, after captaining his team to glory in 1994. After turning down the job as national team manager in 2000 because of concerns about the running of the FA, he accepted the post after the last World Cup and could become part of a small group who have won the World Cup as player and manager.

Odds - 5/1

Prediction - Will win the group, and will be amongst the contenders in the later stages.

Ivory Coast - World Ranking 27

Maybe the most unlucky side in this years tournament are Sven Goran Eriksson's Ivory Coast outfit. After their first World Cup fours years ago they exited in the first round after finding themselves in the group of death, now four years later they are once again in that dreaded group. And an injury to talisman Didier Drogba hardly helps matters, even though he is expected to play some part.

After qualifying comfortably under the guidance of Vahid Halilhodzic, a poor African Nations saw Les Elephants put under the charge of the former England manager. A quarter-final specialist while on our shores, he could have his work cut out just to escape the group stage this time round.

Strengths

Their is good experience throughout this side, but the strongest area could well be among the forward line. First choice Drogba (when fit again) will be accompanied by either Salomon Kalou or Aruna Dindane who both enjoyed good season while in the Premier League.

A strong bullish side as you would expect from Africa, they will need to be at their best this summer. The hassling that was missing in the African Nations will have to return, and they could just stand a chance of progressing to at least the last 16.

Weaknesses

Their defence needs to be sorted out, and fast, if they are to beat Portugal into second place. Kolo Toure hasn't exactly set Eastlands a light this season, while Emmanuel Eboue has been used sparingly in defence at Arsenal. One option could be to follow Barcelona's example and switch Yaya Toure to the back, but whatever the solution if it isn't sorter Ivory Coast could fall at the first hurdle for the second year running.

Key Man - Didier Drogba

The strong yet pacey Chelsea front man epitomises everything about this side. His bullish attitude on the pitch makes him very little friends, but he won't care while he's plundering the goals at the rate he is. He hit the back of the net 37 times in all competitions for his club last season, and his rate for his country is equally impressive with 44 in 67. They will need him to recover fast, with their first two games being Portugal and Brazil.

One to Watch - Salomon Kalou

Drogba's Chelsea team mate is beginning to impress in the Premier League. after struggling to make an impact at first. His strike rate for his national side though is non too shabby, with him finding the back of the net 11 time in 28 appearances.

Manager - Sven Goran Eriksson

After a terrible spell at Mexico and a doomed reign at Notts County as Director of Football, Eriksson has found his way to Ivory Coast where he has a contract that lasts for just the World Cup. A good showing could get him back into club management quickly, with the Swede already throwing his hat into the ring for the available position at Anfield.

Odds - 25/1

Prediction - Will just lose out to Portugal in the run for second place.

North Korea - World Ranking 106

The much unfancied North Koreans are certainly wild cards in South Africa, after a marathon slog saw them qualify for the World Cup for the first time since 1966. They began their campaign in October 2007, after after five preliminary rounds earned the right to compete in the Asian Qualifying section. A good result against the more fancied Saudi Arabia got them through to compete this summer, and they could well spring a few surprises after being seemingly written off already.

Strengths

The sheer unexpected nature of this side. No one really knows a lot about North Korea, they are expected to be comfortably beaten in all three group games so they could well cause a shock.

Their main strength in play is in defence, although this could go wrong with the attacking might that lies in group G. If they mix a stern defence with attacking intentions they could do better than expected, but if they just sit back it could all go wrong.

Weaknesses

With this being their first World Cup in some 44 years they could quite easily become overwhelmed at the occasion. Especially consider they have been drawn in the group of death, with three other sides all expecting to do rather well.

In addition to this point, there is of course a lack of obvious talent in the squad with no world class players to speak of. And with talent of the highest grade everywhere in this group, in the worst case scenario it could all end up rather embarrassing.

Key Man - Jong Tae Se

The 'Asian Wayne Rooney' is one of a number of players who will be on show hoping to secure a lucrative move with a good showing. He currently plies his trade for Kawasaki Frontale in Japan, and is the current man of the moment in his homeland after scoring against both Japan and South Korea in February. He could've also played for either of those two nations due to parentage, but chose North Korea after they paid for his education.

One to Watch - Hong Yong-Jo

Hong Yong-Jo is one of only two players in this squad that currently plays in Europe, Russian side FC Rostov is where he currently plays club football. This experience could be crucial in keeping the rest of the squad level headed, and the current North Korea Captain will have a big part to play in that and in ensuring goals can be found in South Africa.

Manager - Kim Jong-Hun

The logical choice for manager of this side, as it is unthinkable that they would employ a foreign coach. However don't be swayed he isn't afraid to speak his mind, after a recent defeat to fierce rivals South Korea he accused them of poisoning his players.

Odds - 2000/1

Prediction - Will be overwhelmed by the attacking nature of the other side in this group, and in all honestly could struggle to even get on the score sheet.

Portugal - World Ranking 3

After stuttering to a place in South Africa, question marks hang over the heads of Portugal side that reached the last four in Germany 2006. They were beaten into second place in the qualification group by Denmark, narrowly edging out Sweden into third. And after defeating Bosnia Herzegovina 1-0 in each leg of their play-off match, they head into this summers tournament looking in far from convincing form.

With the 'golden generation' now gone, it is up to the new boys to perform but Cristiano Ronaldo will not be able to do everything alone. Manager Carlos Queiroz also finds himself under pressure, with many fans believing he should've stuck to being a number two.

Strengths

2002 first round exit in the Japan and Korea World Cup apart, Portugal have tended to fare well in big international tournaments this century. A fourth place finish at the World Cup fours years ago is added to well placed finishes in the last three European Champions of a semi-final, final and quarter final. Added to this is the fact that they are now playing without pressure, with their recent poor form removing the favourites tag that usually follows them.

With Nani now out of the World Cup, Portugal will need someone else to step up to the breach and take some of the pressure off their captain Ronaldo. Brazilian born Liedson's emergence is also a major plus for Portugal, with his 3 goals in 9 games showing his international credentials.

Weaknesses

Carlos Queiroz looks out of his depth in international management, with many believing he can't make the big decisions or lead a team. This could have a negative effect on the side, with people doubting the managers ability to do his job.

In addition to this, while on paper Portugal have a good record of late the truth is they haven't played a side in the world's top 15 during that period. They have a good record against these lower sides, but a group game against Brazil should show where there really at.

Key Man - Cristiano Ronaldo

Arguably the world's most complete footballer, Ronaldo enjoyed a spectacular first season at Real Madrid on a personal level. Although his side failure to win anything proves he cannot win on his own, which is the problem which the national side. Despite his incredible goal scoring form for his club though, he failed to score during Portugal's qualifying campaign. However his lung bursting pace and ability to score from seemingly anywhere on the pitch, will be crucial to Portugal.

One to Watch - Miguel Veloso

A defensive midfielder who can also operate as a left back, Miguel Veloso is a target for many English clubs and with a good showing could soon find himself in the Premier League. As well as cutting out attacks he also loves to start them, and can often be found bombing into enemy territory.

Manager - Carlos Queiroz

The former Real Madrid manager has had the opportunity to manage at World Cup before, but he resigned prior to the 2002 tournament after leading South Africa to Japan and South Korea. Under pressure from all angles, it could take a great tournament to keep him in the job.

Odds - 28/1

Prediction - Should make it out of the group behind Brazil, but will then face Spain in the next round and find their competition over.

Next Time

Join me tomorrow for the preview of the final group, containing Spain, Honduras, Chile and Switzerland.

Group F

Italy - World Ranking 5

The reigning world champions have their work cut out if they are to prevail in South Africa, as they did in Germany four years ago. There anti-football, as many call it, isn't the prettiest on the eyes but if utilised correctly it's certainly very effective. And the fear amongst many is, that if Italy go far once again more and more coaches could copy there style.

This dull style of play was evident as they won their qualifying group, ahead of the Republic of Ireland. Every player on the pitch will be instructed to press, with their attack as always being the first line of defence. They will be reliant on moments of magic in attack, although their lack of world class talent bears the question who will provide it?

Their World Cup victory four years ago was certainly impressive, on the back of the match fixing scandal but is that really a thing of the past? Italian football is still in a bad position, attendances are down and everyone knows about the state of terrace violence. It is not the best build up for a World Cup!

Strengths

A vastly experienced squad, is complimented with the addition of youth here and there. Fabio Cannavaro will lead the side for the last time, although how effective he can be at 36 is under question.

Italy's midfield is full of creative talent, which will need to be at full strength if they are to progress well in South Africa. In addition they will employ similar tactics as four years ago, by pressing all over the pitch and not giving anyone a moment to dwell on the ball.

Weaknesses

Despite there place as one of footballs superpowers and being ranked fifth in the world, there is a distinct lack of world class talent in this squad. Too much tends to hinge on Andrea Pirlo in the centre of the pitch, and it shouldn't be long before other countries figure out that if you stop Pirlo you tend to stifle Italy.

Goals could also become a major problem this summer, with first choices Alberto Gilardino and Vincenzo Iaquinta not in the bracket of world class. Despite many peoples opinions they will struggle to make it out of the group that shouldn't be the case, although their progression from there could be short lived.

Key Man - Gianluigi Buffon

The Juventus 'keeper has been one of the worlds best for many a year, and he will need to be on top form for Italy this summer. It isn't the strongest of Italian sides, and Buffon just might be facing more shots than he is used to. Speculation has also been linking him with a move away, and a strong showing could prompt a number of bids.

One to Watch - Claudio Marchisio

A tenacious and hard tackling midfielder, Juventus' Marchisio is usually employed in the centre of midfield although he can be used out wide if necessary. Although he doesn't get on the score sheet too often, he is known to have a venomous shot with either foot so he could score a screamer or two this summer.

Manager - Marcello Lippi

Marcello Lippi is well used to winning things, and after a very successful club career he took Italy to World Cup glory four years ago. After retiring he came back to replace Roberto Donadoni after 2008s poor European Championships, but he has his work cut out to replicate his heroics from four years ago.

Odds - 14/1

Prediction - Should win the group, but will struggle to progress from the last 16.

Paraguay - World Ranking 30

After firing out of the blocks in South American qualifying, Paraguay ended up limping over the line but still finished third - ahead of Argentina. During this qualifying stage they took the scalps of both Brazil and Argentina, which shows the talent that lies within their squad.

The great overachievers of South American football, Paraguay are competing in their fourth successive World Cup. After reaching the second round in both 1998 and 2002 they slumped at the group stage four years ago, but they should make it out of group F although progression beyond that point will be tough.

Strengths

Their two styles of play give them an edge against some of the lower teams, that should see them make second place in this group. They are equally effective at getting the ball down and playing, or simply knocking it right up to Roque Santa Cruz.

There is also a number of players in this side that are hoping to put themselves in the shop window during the summer, and secure a big money move away. This should result in some very eye catching performances.

Weaknesses

A genuine lack of world class talent could ensure Paraguay suffer against the likes of Italy, who are first up in the group phase. On top of this Roque Santa Cruz (see key man below) is still the main player for this side, despite his sparse performances for Manchester City this season and as a result a lack of goals. However as highlighted above, he is one of many that is trying to secure a move away from his club so he needs a good tournament to ensure that comes to fruition.

Key Man - Roque Santa Cruz

His record of 21 goals in 69 appearances for his country is impressive, and he will need to add to that tally should his hope of moving on from Eastlands come true. If Paraguay decide to employ the long ball tactic he will become the main targetman, and his holding up skills will become crucial. However if they go for the more creative route, the natural predators instinct we all seen at Blackburn Rovers will need to be on full strength.

One to Watch - Cristian Riveros

After already sealing his switch away from Cruz Azul, Riveros will be hoping to show his new Sunderland team mates and fans that Steve Bruce was right to splash out on him. He will link up with national team mate Paulo Da Silva at the Black Cats, and this could be a real coup for Bruce should he go on to have a good competition.

Manager - Gerado Martino

Gerado Martino is rated as one of South Americas best coaches, and the Argentine will be hoping to emulate Paraguays recent showing in the second round. He often complains that Brazil and Argentina get preferential treatment and would love to get one over on them, although it doesn't seem likely this year.

Odds - 66/1

Prediction - Should make it out of the group, but could face stern opposition from Slovakia.

New Zealand - World Ranking 78

After qualifying for a play-off spot from the Oceania-Asia group, New Zealand were lucky to only have to face Bahrain and not one they bigger side such as China. They progressed to the final after a goalless draw away was followed up with a 1-0 victory in Wellington, cue wild celebrations.

However the All Whites will have their work cut out, as their varied results in the build up shows. After securing their place in the play-off they were then beaten by Fiji, as well as conceding four against Spain in the Confederations Cup.

With only one World Cup under their belts though it will be hard for them not to improve. They lost all three in 1982, scoring only twice but conceding 12.

Strengths

Ryan Nelsen's Premier League experience could prove crucial, as well as that of the several other players who have experience of European football. Nelsen is doubt the most experienced man in the side, and he will need to keep a calm head if New Zealand don't capitulate.

Also the element of surprise could work in their favour, with the other sides in the group not knowing an awful lot about the All Whites. Although they will need to vary their style of play if this is to occur, a point which lead us onto their weaknesses.

Weaknesses

New Zealand are a typically long ball side, with Shane Smeltz the main target in attack. This style of play will be easy for Italy, Paraguay and Slovakia to deal with, so they will need to mix it up and try something different if they are to get anything out of this summers tournament.

In addition to this their lack of quality players will ultimately cost them. Their friendly results have been largely disappointing, bar a 1-0 victory over Serbia, so this suggests they could struggle to get even a point.

Key Man - Ryan Nelsen

An Ewood Park favourite, Nelsen will have his work cut out trying to keep out opposition attackers this summer. His uncompromising approach epitomises how Sam Allardyce sees the game, however his relative success in the Premier League doesn't look like being replicated this summer.

One to Watch - Rory Fallon

The player who scored the goal to get his country to South Africa, is likely to play just off Smeltz in the Kiwi attack. He usually enjoys a good goal record both for club and country, and he could be a crucial if New Zealand are going to improve on their last World Cup showing.

Manager - Ricki Herbert

New Zealand's centre back from the 1982 finals doesn't have much quality to work with in this side, and will struggle for his side to make any kind of impact at all. A tough guy on the pitch he replicates that as a manager, as well as being a good organiser.

Odds - 2000/1

Prediction - Will struggle to score and will be on the first flight home.

Slovakia - World Ranking 38

Slovakia are heading to their first World Cup since independence, after previously competing as part of Czechoslovakia. And while qualifying for this summer tournament they meet there mighty neighbour the Czech Republic as well as Poland, to highlight their credentials as they topped their group.

They head to South Africa with a very experienced squad, with just a few younger players thrown in (including Marek Hamsik see key man and Miroslav Stoch, the one to watch). They will no doubt be written off early, along with New Zealand in this group, but there solid defence and creative attacking force could well spring a surprise or two.

Strengths

As they showed in qualifying they are a solid unit, but are also a side that doesn't sit back and try to block out teams. Martin Skrtel is a rock at the back for his country, form that he hasn't quite managed to transform to Liverpool as a consistent basis. Hamsik is the driving force from midfield, although they do have hidden strength that may go unnoticed. Chelsea youngster Miroslav Stoch is the countries most prized young asset, and after a sterling season with Steve McClaren at Twente Enschede he is brimming with confidence.

Weaknesses

Their simple lack of world class talent could come back to haunt them. At the moment they have a squad with good players who may well go on to become world class, but simply aren't quite there at the moment. It will the final group match against Italy that will test this theory, with the world champions blessed with some of the worlds best.

Key Man - Marek Hamsik

Napoli's 22-year-old midfield dynamo looked like a panic buy when he first made the move from Serie B side Brescia for £3.5m. The promise that they were buying potential looks to have paid off, as he finished top scorer in his first season. In addition he was named Slovakian young player of the year two years running, and he is been tracked by a number of Europe's top clubs who will no doubt make a move if he performs as we know he can.

One to Watch - Miroslav Stoch

Chelsea could have a future star on their hands, if Stoch can continue his progression at the Stamford Bridge outfit. The attacking midfielder or winger could be a natural successor to a number of Chelsea's ageing stars, and after a title winning season in Holland he heads to South Africa full of confidence.

Manager - Vladimir Weiss

Despite a lack of top class managerial experience, Vladimir Weiss has coach Champions League football with Artmedia Bratislava. The popular coach has seemingly managed to get Slovakia to punch above their weight, a trait he will hope continues through the summer.

Odds - 250/1

Prediction - Will challenge Paraguay for second spot in the group.

Next Time

Join me tomorrow when I will be previewing Brazil, Ivory Coast, North Korea and Portugal of group G.