Group B

Denmark

The Danes performed admirably in qualification for this years tournament, overhauling Portugal to qualify automatically. A 3-1 away defeat early on was avenged by a 2-1 home victory, demoting Cristiano Ronaldo and co into second place. In the group of death though, can Denmark do the same to keep up hopes of a Quarter Final berth.

When teams head into the European Championships with a team not expected to perform too admirably, there is always one team and one tournament pointed out. Denmark 1992. A side who shouldn't have even been at the tournament and dragged their players off the beaches, going on to triumph against all odds. Since that occasion they have only managed to get out of the group stage once, and even failed to qualify last time around.

One significant advantage they could have, however, is with their coach Morten Olsen. With 12 years experience with the national team, he no doubt knows he players and their system inside out. | 2-0 victory over Australia in their final warm up game will breathe fresh confidence throughout the squad.

Key Man

Man people will point to young Ajax maestro Christian Eriksen, who at 20-year-old has become an integral part of both his club and national sides while attracting interest from the likes of Manchester United. Sports Portal though have gone a different avenue when, and have selected Nicklas Bendtner as Denmark's key man.

The young Arsenal striker has spent the season on loan at Sunderland, performing admirably if not spectacularly. However the 24-year-old has spoken of his desire to leave the Emirates this summer, so could use these championships to fully put himself right in the front of the shop window. A few decent performances and goals and clubs could be lining up to take him off Arsene Wenger's hands.

One To Watch

A once promising centre back with the world at his feet, Simon Kjaer has had something of an unhappy spell over the last few years. After leaving FC Midtjylland in 2008 at just 19, he went to Palermo before an unhappy spell at Wolfsburg in 2010/11, this saw a return to Italy but this time with Roma where his career has begun to get back on track.

An ever present in qualifying, alongside the main man at the back Daniel Agger, he could be key in unlikely progression from a very tough group indeed.

Germany

The well oiled machine just starts getting stronger and more efficient, highlighted by the dominant way in which they steamrollered their way to the finals. Ten wins out of Ten with 34 scored and just 7 conceded tells it's own story. The three time champs will be more than confident of adding to that haul this time around.

Joachim Loew has a plethora of talent from which to choose from, particularly in those attacking positions. Germany usually like to set themselves up with one striker and three behind in support, but in this case they can easily switch positions at any time they choose. Making them a very tricky proposition indeed.

Key Man

Despite Miroslav Klose top scoring in qualifying, he has been hampered by injuries of late and may not be at 100% even if he does make it to play a part. For that reason Mario Gomez will be the man to the lead line; putting the past behind him and continuing his recent good form.

It has simply been a season of goals, goals, goals for the Bayern Munich hit man, whilst on the national front he also contributed his fair amount despite largely playing second fiddle. With the like of Mesut Ozil et al supplying the ammunition, it could be a worrying time for any side that steps in their way.

One to Watch

Another Borussia Dortmund wonder kid is to now to make another appearance, but this time he will by no means be a regular starter. Mario Gotze has attracted interest in all corners of Europe. Due to creative skills that more often than not leave the opposition perplexed.

He is a two time Bundesliga Champion at club level, but in the international side he will have to bide his time and take his opportunity when it comes. He will no doubt be given game time this summer, it is just up to him to step up and stake a claim for a regular starters spot.

Netherlands

Another side who often promise so much, but fall short at the final hurdle. That happened to Bert Van Marwijk's troops two years ago at the South Africa World Cup, where after defeating Brazil and Uruguay they found themselves undone by Spain in the final. With a performance that is unlikely to be recreated this summer.

A near flawless qualifying campaign saw nine victories and just one defeat, which came in the final game away against Sweden. Their talent is there for all to see, but Van Marwijk faces a healthy dilemma in those attacking positions. Which on fire striker do you choose? Klaas Jan Huntelaar or Robin Van Persie?

Key Man

From Sports Portal's choice here it is clear to see how we would answer the above dilemma, with our key man in the Dutch team being Van Persie. The phenomenal Arsenal striker has finally shown his true potential of late, with injures not plaguing his season.

Together with Wesley Sneijder and Arjen Robben who will be attacking from further back, defences will have to on red alert when dealing with the danger. The Netherlands will be keen to get back to 'total football' after their negative showing on a world stage v Spain two years ago.

One To Watch

Kevin Strootman has established himself as one the most consistent performer in the Eredivisie with PSV Eindhoven; making himself an international regular in the process. His main attribute in his passing ability, which could be crucial when feeding Robben and the like this summer.

Manchester United are just one of a number of clubs mooted to be interested in securing the services of the 22-year-old, who has said no decision will be made until after this summers tournament.

Portugal

Qualification started dismally for Portugal, with a 4-4 home draw with Cyprus quickly followed up by an away day defeat in Norway. Despite rattling of five consecutive victories, defeat in Denmark in the final group game relegated them to the play offs. Up stepped Bosnia who were full of confidence heading to Lisbon after securing a 0-0 draw on home soil, but any hopes were soon extinguished as the hosts romped to a 6-2 victory.

Final preparations haven't exactly gone to plan though, with a 3-1 defeat in their final warm up game against Turkey denting confidence. Heading into the group of death, and Germany first up, coach Paulo Bento will have to work to do to rouse his side and instil some belief.

Key Man

Cristiano Ronaldo is the obvious choice here, and coming off the back of a terrific season in which he secured a maiden La Liga title confidence will be at all time high. This coupled with his 112 goal haul in just 102 league games highlight just why he so crucial.

Officially the second best player in the world, behind his pesky Argentine arch nemesis Lionel Messi, Ronaldo is once again playing with a smile on his face at international level. Something that could spell disaster for his opponents.

One To Watch

Despite already being known worldwide, Sports Portal have opted for Manchester United winger Nani. A man who certainly isn't shy of confidence, stating last year he could win this years Ballon d'or and most recently saying along with international team mate Ronaldo they represent two of the best wingers in the world.

Along with this he has recently suggested it could be about time for him to leave the Premier League and seek a new challenge. This could result in heightened performances as he seeks to highlight to potential suitors just why they should invest in him.

Spotlight on - Rapid Vienna

SK Rapid Wien, or Rapid Vienna as they are more commonly known, have a rich history that dates back over 100 years.  They are the most successful club in Austrian football history, and recovered from a nine year hiatus to get back to winning ways and claim a league title 2004/05.

Established:  September 1898
Home Stadium:  Gerhard Hanappi-Stadion, 17,500
President:  Rudolf Edlinger
Manager:  Peter Schottel
Home Strip:  Green with white vertical striped shirt, green shorts and green with white hooped socks
Away Strip:  Red shirt with blue shorts and socks

History

The club was founded in 1898 under the name 'Erste Wiener Arbeiter Fußballklub' (First Workers' Football Club of Vienna), but were replaced in early January the following year by SK Rapid.  Foundations have always been built on success, with Rapid now being centurions in the top flight having plied their trade at the top table since 1911.  In addition they were first being forced to play on makeshift pitches, before moving into their 'Pfarrwiese' home in 1912 and staying their for over six decades.

1911 was a year which built the platform from which to move forward, as they won the first league title in that season.  Added to this feat is the fact they also became the same team to win the Austrian Cup in 1918/19, completing a double by adding to it their fifth domestic league title.  Success continued to come their way, until World War II struck and a feat within which the club still pride themselves.

After German invasion Austria was incorporated in the German Reich, and after winning the German Cup in 1938 added a German League title three years later.  Purple patches became a rare thing within the club through the 50s, 60s and 70s, so much so that the club had to move into it's new home in 1977.

The Gerhard Hanappi-Stadion, home of Rapid Vienna

The newly constructed and much larger Weststadion, which came to fruition thanks to a club legend.  Gerhard Hanappi, who made well over 300 appearances for the club and is considered one of the finest footballers produced by the country. turned architect on retirement and helped with the stadiums construction.  Following his death in 1981, the stadium was renamed the Gerhard Hanappi-Stadion.

It was the 80s however which proved to be the real 'golden era' within the clubs history, as they stormed to four League titles, four Cup triumphs and three Austrian Supercups between 1982-1988.  The 'Greens' also made the 1984/85 Cup Winners Cup final but lost out 3-1 to now Premier League side Everton, after dumping out Besiktas, Celtic, Dynamo Dresden and Dinamo Moscow.

Another amazing route to the final came to the forefront in 1996, but this time Paris Saint Germain proved too much and ran out 1-0 victors.  This was also a year in which started a long and arduous barren spell for the club, as little did they know the 1995/96 league title would be their last until 2004/05.

Since breaking the hoodoo and getting back to winning ways the club has gone from strength to strength.  Another league title was added three years later, while attendances have continued to rise.  While on occasion some of the bigger matches have been moved to the Ernst Happel Stadion, which boasts a 50,000 capacity.

Managers

Rapid Vienna have not been shy when it comes to managers, when the list just seeming to go on and on.  Added to the clubs huge trophy haul, it is clear to see that a whole host of managers have had some exciting times at the club.

As previously mentioned it is perhaps the 1980s that proved to be the glory years for Rapid.  So it is perhaps Otto Baric (1982-85 and 1986-89) who deserves the most plaudits, instilling a winning mentality and bulking up the trophy cabinet considerably.

Peter Pacult in the dug out during his time as manager

Ernst Dokupil is also held in high regard, continuing the good times in the early 1990s before what could be considered a barren spell hit.  Peter Pacult, who had played for the club, had some winning over to do after also turning out for fierce rivals Austria Wien (Vienna), but sill holds a whole host of credit amongst green fans.  This is because after the huge gulf between league title triumphs, it is Pacult who brought the good times back to Rapid.

Players

There are a whole host of players from the rich history of this club who are held in high regard, as all cannot possibly be mentioned a few will be pointed out. Josef Uridil enjoyed two spells at the club, 1914-25 and 1926-27, winning five Australian Bundeliga titles and two Austrian Cups while finishing top scorer on two occasions.

Another high achiever, who was with the club during the war, is Franz Binder who held a phenominal scoring record for the club.  His average of 1.33 goals per game is an unofficial world record, while he was also the first European player to reach the 1,000 goals barrier.  Amongst his achievements while at Rapid are four League titles, a German and Austrian cup and multiple indiviual scoring records.

A man whose name now adorns the stadium in which the national team ply their trade is surely considered a huge legend, and Ernst Happel is precisely that.  The Defender came through the youth ranks at Rapid and enjoyed a long and successful career with the club, 1942-1954 and 1956-1959, with a brief spell at RC Paris the only thing to take him away.  In addition to just over a half century of caps for his country, he was also manager from 1991-1992.  Happel's honours list is quite some haul, both as player and manager.

Herzog during his playing days

Hans Krankl loved this club so much he just kept being drawn back.  The striker had an enviable record during two spells at the club, 1970-78 and 1981-86, he event went back to manage the side between 1989-92, whilst also managing the Austrian national team from 2002-2005.  Two Bundesliga titles, four Austrian Cups and a Cup Winners Cup were won during his two spells at the club, which came either side of a spell at Barcelona.

Peter Schottel has spent nearly all his footballing life at one club.  After coming through the ranks at Rapid the defender enjoyed a 16 year playing career, notching up three League title and two Cup triumphs.  Following a two year management spell at SC Wiener Neustadt, 2009-2011, fate has taken him back to the club where his heart lies.

More modern, and Andreas Herzog is as big a legend as you can get.  After spending the first six years of his career at Rapid, he moved abroad and spent nine years in Germany before returning for another year, 2002-03 back in Austria.  Since retirement from playing he has fulfilled various roles within the national set up.

Honours

Austrian league titles
1912, 1913, 1916, 1917, 1919, 1920, 1921, 1923, 1929, 1930, 1935, 1938, 1940, 1941, 1946, 1948, 1951, 1952, 1954, 1956, 1957, 1960, 1964, 1967, 1968, 1982, 1983, 1987, 1988, 1996, 2005, 2008

German league title 
1941

Austrian Cups
1919, 1920, 1927, 1946, 1961, 1968, 1969, 1972, 1976, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1987, 1995

German Cup
1938

Austrian Supercups
1986, 1987, 1988

Mitroipacups
1930, 1951

Intertoto Cup
1992, 1993

Future Stars - David Alaba

Could this be one of the future gems to add to the Bayern Munich crown.  After hitting headlines as a bright prospect, the hype around the young midfielder seems to have died down a little.  One thing is for certain though, if column inches aren't being dedicated to the 19-year-old now they certainly will be in the future.

After starting his career at SV Aspern, David Alaba quickly caught the eye of Austrian giants Austria Vienna and his bags were packed.  After joining in 2002, progress through the ranks seemed to be rather swift.  After being named amongst the squad for an Bundesliga matched in his native Austria, it wasn't long before Germany's biggest team came knocking and he was transferred for the second time in his young life.

Bayern Munich seemed to be the platform that was required, and after a debut season in 2008/09 spent in the youth system he was promptly elevated into the second string.  It was here that an upward turn was taken, with his half season spent in the reserves proving very fruitful indeed.  Not only was he named in the squad for the Champions League, but on the national front he was beginning to be recognised too.

Following on from his two years in the under-17s, only a handful of games were completed in the under-21s before another promotion was completed.  This time into the senior set up, where he has remained since.  In addition to this, in January of last year it was also announced that Alaba was to train with the first team squad at club level.  Two others were also promoted at the same time, one of which was Diego Contento who has been making huge strides into the first team since.

David Alaba celebrating a goal for FC Bayern

In the next year and a half he would remain on the fringes of the Bayern Munich team, clearly showing signs of promise but not being able to crack into the first eleven on a regular basis.  It was announced before the 2011/12 Bundesliga season commenced that he was to go on loan Hoffenheim, where he has featured much more prominently.

That loan spell however expires shortly after the turn of the new year, and Bayern will be hoping the confidence and experience gained will ensure his transition into a first team regular will be rather swift.  Juup Heynckes could just have one of the next stars of the Allianz Arena on his hands.

Transfer flops: Florin Raducioiu

You know you've had a bad time of it when a footballer himself describes an ill fated spell at one of his many clubs as a "disaster."  Cue Florin Raducioiu who used those exact words when describing the time he spent plying his trade at West Ham United.  So just how did a Seria A and Champions League winner with AC Milan end up at Upton Park, and what made the spell one to forget.

Raducioiu began his career in his native Romania where he was a product of the Dinamo Bucharest academy, and went on to play for the club for four years after being given his chance at the tender age of just 17.  A four year jaunt in Italy followed this, where he initially joined Bari, before moving on to Verona, Brescia and then Milan.  The trophy haul though doesn't reflect a happy and glistening time at the San Siro, in fact he managed only a handful of games before being shipped off to another country.

It was Espanyol where he found himself this time, but after just two years it was off to Euro 96 in England where a certain Harry Redknapp sat up and took note as he netted his countries only goal of the finals in a 2-1 defeat by Spain.  His time spent in the Premiership didn't exactly go to plan though, with the double figure mark of appearance just being topped and only two league goals to his name.  He will perhaps be remembered for off field controversy, something vehemently denied by the player, when it was alleged he went shopping at Harvey Nichols leaving his side one striker short.  Falling out with your manager is never a good idea, in any walk of life, and it wasn't long before Raducioiu was back off to Barcelona and old club Espanyol.

In the next seven, and final, years of his career, Raducioiu pilled up quite a list of clubs.  After leaving Spain for the second time it was on to Germany and a one year spell with VfB Stuttgart, before heading back to another old club and Brescia.  After two years home comforts lured the right winger/striker to first club Dinamo Bucharest, but it wasn't long before bags were packed once again and he jetted off to pastures new.  This time France was the destination, where Monaco aquired his services for a season, before one final hurrrah came at Creteil-Lusitanos and finally retirement in 2004 which brought an end to an 18 year career.

Radicioiu may have been far from a hit in London, and at many of his club for that matter, but on his jet-set career of Europe he did set an incredible feat.  He is only one of two players, along with Christian Poulsen, to have plied his trade in Europe's big five leagues (England, France, Germany, Italy and Spain.)

Transfer flops: Steve Marlet

Arriving at Craven Cottage on the crest of a wave back in 2001, Steve Marlet was somewhat seen as the marquee signing to take Fulham to the next level.

Some years, millions of pounds and a court case later, and the French winger is remembered as one of the biggest Premier League flops.

After starting out at amateur French side Red Star in 1991, he made the step up to the big time with Auxerre after five years at the club.

At this point Marlet's career seeming to be heading in the right direction, with a switch to Lyon materialising in 2000.

The Premier League came knocking a year later, and Les Gones sold up after only a season.

Jean Tignan, then manager, paid £11.5 to secure the signing and expectation began to rise.

In fours year at Craven Cottage however Marley only mustered just over half a century of appearances, and a handful of goals.

There was also a loan spell at Marseille during this time, lasting two seasons.

In 2005 his nightmare in England came to and end and he signed for Wolfsburg, but for Tigana the nightmare was just beginning.

After some expensive, and terrible, signings Fulham chairman Mohammed Al Fayed became suspicious of who was now his former manager.

The millionaire started proceeding against Tignana claiming he was pocketing a share of transfers, hence the large fees shelled out.

Courts however found in favour of the former manager, who after a brief break slipped over to Europe to continue his managerial career.

Marlet however slipped into obscurity, he managed just one season in Germany before joining Lorient back in his native France.

One solitary season later and he was back on his way, taking a few years out of the game.

After a few unsuccessful trails he Marlet found his way back to the amateur leagues, plying his trade for CM Aubervilliers.

The final looms!

The pinnacle of world football is almost upon us, with Spain and Holland all but ready to contest the 2010 World Cup final.

South Africa has thrown a fantastic football party, and one of world top nations is about to shed it's 'underachievers' tag.

Holland have not lost a game at this years tournament, and this coupled with the fact they also went unbeaten during qualifying makes them a daunting proposition.

Some said they breezed through a mediocre qualifying phase, but they have answered all their critics as they stand on the brink of greatness.

Largely hailed as the best side not to win the World Cup, this current crop of Dutch stars could etch their names on the record list for many years to come.

Key to success are of course the fearsome duo of Arjen Robben and Wesley Sneijder, the latter of which is an unlikey joint top scorer.

Against Brazil he bagged both goals, as Holland showed great grit and determination to come from behind against the side who many tipped to go all the way this year.

Uruguay were pushed asisde, with a stern defence also showing they can get on the score sheet as Giovanni Van Bronkhorst smashed in a stunner.

Also if Gregory Van Der Wiel and Nigel De Jong are restored to the line up, they will field shirt numbers 1-11.

The group phase was a pushover as were the qualifying and last 16 stages, could they be about to lift their first World Cup.

Spain on the other hand are the pinnacle of beautiful passing football.

With a large crop of Barcelona players, seven of which started the semi-final against Germany, this hardly suprising.

David Villa is once again topping the scoring charts, along with Sneijder, with Andres Iniesta and either Pedro or the mis-firing Fernando Torres expected to sit just behind him in a three pronged attack.

Iker Casillas has put som early dodgy performances behind him, with his defence looking stronger with each passing game.

From the midfield Xavi is no doubt the key man.

He touched the ball every 46 seconds in the semi, and along with Xabi Alonso the pair form a fearsome duo with a wide array of passing ability.

After defeat to Switzerland in the first game Spain have come back stronger, and with them being widely fancied for the trophy before the tournament they could become the first side in history to win the Euro's and then the World Cup.

Beside all the debate one thing is for certain, this year will be the first time a European side has won the World Cup outside of Europe.

Before that happens though their is the little matter of the third/fourth placed play off.

Uruguay haven't beaten a European side in their last 14 attempts, since defeat to germany at the same stage in 1970.

It should be an excting conclusion, to the best sports event in world sport.

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.

Group D

Australia - World Ranking 20

After being moved from the Oceania qualifying group to the more competitive Asia, Australia still breezed into this years World Cup finals. After reaching the knockout stage four years ago, when they were eliminated by eventual champions Italy 1-0 due to a controversial penalty, morale was boosted and they will hope to better this time round.

However they could have there work cut out in a difficult group, plus they had the tactical nous of Guus Hiddink last time out. They do have plenty of experience throughout though, and could spring a surprise if written off in South Africa.

Strengths

There is plenty of experience in the Australia squad, with many players having Premier League football under their belt. All thee 'keepers ply their trade in England, and have all had appearances in the top League. Current number one Mark Schwarzer was instrumental in Fulham's remarkable run to the Europa League final, and he kept a staggering seven clean sheets during qualifying for this tournament.

In addition several key players are coming full of confidence. Schwarzer is definitely on that list, where he is joined by their key man Tim Cahill. He enjoyed a tremendous end to the season with Everton, and his goals will be key. Lucas Neill and Harry Kewell have also had good spells at Galatasaray, and will also be itching to get going in South Africa.

Weaknesses

While they are full of strength in most areas, there defence could suffer at the tournament despite the seven clean sheets in qualifying. Vice Captain Craig Moore is currently without a club, while other selections come from Japan, Switzerland and Australia itself. Not exactly footballing hot spots, although three of the seven defenders selected do have Premier League experience. And it is this experience of different variations of football that could save them from this potential banana skin.

Too much emphasis is also placed on the shoulders on Tim Cahill to deliver the craft to either score or set up goals. If he fails to shine, Australia could suffer as a result.

Key Man - Tim Cahill

The free scoring Everton midfield, will have to be on top form if Australia are to escape group D. He will hope to pick up where he left off in 2006, after a double against Japan helped the Socceroos out of the group. After a good back end of the season for his club, he will hope to continue that right through the summer.

One to Watch - Mark Bresciano

Ageing midfielder Bresciano has spent the most part of his career in Italy, and has become a tactically gifted footballer who can spread play and set up attacks with one pass. Despite now being 30, he could be key to either patient attacks or fast breaks as his passing could open up defences. He often shines on the big stage, and will need to take some pressure off other squad members to succeed this summer.

Manager - Pim Verbeek

Dutch coach Pim Verbeek has experience from all around the world, and this could be key to Australia progressing beyond the group. He was assistant to Guus Hiddink with South Korea in 2002 during there run to the semi-finals, and also under Dick Advocaat four years later. With main aim of doing better than last time, he has certainly set himself high targets that he may find difficult to meet.

Odds - 125/1

Prediction - In a difficult group which Germany should top, they will have to hit top form straight away to progress.

Germany - World Ranking 6

Write off the Germans at your peril! It is 32 years since they failed to make a European Championship or World Cup quarter final, so you can fully expect them to be in the mix again this time around. Despite not having a team full of world beaters, mental strength and determination carry them through and they could be match for anybody.

They breezed through qualifying to secure there place in South Africa, remaining unbeaten and ensuring Russia had to settle for second spot. With only five goals conceded and a staggering 26 scored, just two behind Spain, there will be plenty fearing Germany this summer.

Strengths

A solid defence and free flowing attack have been the main feature of the qualifiers, and this is something they will hope to carry on through the summer. Lukas Podolski has been in great form, while Miroslav Klose is always one to watch in the big tournaments.

They reached the final of Euro 2008, losing out to Spain, and eased their qualification group so are on top form heading to South Africa which could be crucial.

Weaknesses

It usually takes a lot to ruffle the Germans, but in the lead up to this years finals it has happened. Michael Ballack's injury coupled with that of his understudy Christian Traesch has left them with just two central midfielders, and sides with strong squads could fully take advantage of this.

Key Man - Bastian Schweinsteiger

Bayern Munich's creative wide man is a key outlet for this German sides attacking intentions. 21 goals in 75 appearances for his country in a decent return, with his assists tally no doubt firing above that total. Despite an up and down season in place, he reached the Champions League final with his club and also completed the double so will crucially be full of confidence heading to South Africa.

One to Watch - Jerome Boateng

Hamburg's 21-year-old centre back is equally adept at full back, and is rumoured to have already agreed a summer deal to money bags Manchester city. This could be the first chance English fans could have to study the youngster who it is hoped will bolster an indifferent Eastlands defence.

Manager - Joachim Loew

After taking over from Jurgen Klinsmann in 2006, Loew has led his side to the final of Euro 2008 and to this years World Cup with minimal fuss. Despite this though rumours are still rife that Matthias Sammer will take over this summer, so this could be his last hurrah while in charge of the national side.

Odds - 14-1

Prediction - Will no doubt make it to the quarter final and maybe the semi, but no more than that for a side lacking world class talent and stretched in midfield.

Ghana - World Ranking 32

With Michael Essien out of this summers premier football tournament, Inter Milan's Sulley Muntari will have all the pressure on him to step into the breach. With the Chelsea man in the side they had the best chance of being the best showing African side with Ivory Coast in the most difficult group, however they could now have their work cut out.

That Black Stars breezed into the finals courtesy of five goals from Matthew Amoah, but their strike force is far from prolific. They scored just nine in qualifying compared to Ivory Coasts 19, this could be one of their major downfalls (see weaknesses below).

Strengths

Notorious battlers all over the pitch, you won't get a moments peace against this side. They have experience in all positions which could be crucial in them progressing to the latter rounds of the competition. Pele's statement that an African team would win the World Cup by the end of last century fell far from the mark, and although that won't happen this time Ghana have a great chance of being the best performing African side this time round.

Weaknesses

Michael Essien's injury is a huge blow to Ghana, with their whole side and tactics built around the Chelsea holding midfielder. It is to be seen how well Sulley Muntari will react in having to fill in.

Another main point here is the lack of goals that they produce. None of the strikers selected are prolific, so it will be up to the midfielders to chip in and get forward when they can to supports the forward line.

Key Man - Sulley Muntari

Inter Milan midfielder Sulley Muntari will have to be at his brilliant best if Ghana are to succeed in South Africa. Filling in the breach left by Essien the squad will almost revolve around him, so it is his responsibility to ensure that the side functions and succeeds.

The former Portsmouth man enjoyed a terrific season with Inter Milan, where he won the treble under the tutelage of Jose Mourinho. He will however have to be his run-ins with the Ghanian FA behind him, he was sent home from the 2004 Olympics and was left out of the 2010 African Nations squad.

One to Watch - Kevin-Prince Boateng

Enigmatic midfielder Kevin-Prince Boateng is equally adept in defence, and has won many admirers during his time in England. He goes to the World Cup on somewhat of a low after losing the FA Cup final against Chelsea, also missing a penalty with the scores at 0-0. However he could put himself in the shop window with a string tournament, and could be key in driving his side forward and also cutting out attacks.

Managers - Milovan Rajevac

Milovan Rajevac doesn't have much top class experience, so could have his work cut out in trying to get Ghana to the latter stages of the competition. The Serbian will also have to engineer a victory of his home nation, if his side are to progress.

Odds - 80/1

Prediction - Strong contenders to make it out of the group, but will struggle against the bigger nations without Essien

Serbia - World Ranking 16

Serbia are entering the World Cup for the first time as an independent nation, and are determined to put on a good showing on there first outing. Full of dogged determination, as well as experience scattered through the side they could shock a few if written off as also rans.

Europe sat up and took notice when they took top spot in there qualification group, knocking France into second spot and the play-offs. Big wins boosted there goal difference, with new Liverpool signing Milan Jovanovic top scoring with five.

Strengths

A very physical side it would be no surprise to see cards being thrown around on a regular basis, there encounter with Ghana could be very intriguing indeed. This physical presence could be too much for some too handle, as it was for France, so they could no doubt spring a few surprises in South Africa.

There is also a lot of experience in this squad, with many players having played at the top end of the European game. Branislav Ivanovic and Nemanja Vidic of Chelsea and Manchester United are imposing at the back, but they also have an effect at the other end, scoring six goals between them in the qualifiers. Dejan Stankovic also has to be on top form, with his creativity essential and effect from dead-ball situations crucial.

Weaknesses

They have a strong defence, but goals could be there main problem in the competition proper. Nikola Zigic (see one to watch), will have to be on top form as the focal point of the Serbian attack.

Key Man - Milos Krasic

Milos Krasic came to prominence in this season Champions League, where his performances for CSKA Moscow lit up the side. His enigmatic and reliable outings against Manchester United have led to Arsenal, Manchester City and Liverpool sending scouts out to watch him. He is the playmaker for Serbia so is crucial to their success, and with his contract expiring next summer he could well use the World Cup to engineer a move away.

One to Watch - Nikola Zigic

Birmingham's new giant striker is the main man in the Serbian attack, but his record won't worry most sides. 16 goals in 44 appearances is a fair return for a side that has lacked in creativity, however he will have to be on top form if Serbia are to escape group D.

Manager - Radomir Ancic

One of only two men to have coached both Barcelona and Real Madrid, however he is unique in the fact that he has also managed Real's main rivals Atletico. His tactical nous has been key to Serbia, with Ancic promoting many youth players into the first team and masterminding their path to the finals.

Odds - 66/1

Prediction - Despite being confident of progressing from this group, it will be quite a difficult task.

Next Time

Join me tomorrow when I will be previewing group E, which contains Cameroon, Denmark, Japan and Holland.