The rest of group C

Algeria - World Ranking 31

The Desert Foxes qualified for the 2010 World Cup, after beating fierce rivals Egypt in a play-off. However their preparation for the tournament has been very mixed, especially in the Afrcan Nations. This saw the epitomy of good and bad, as one game they looked like world beaters and on others they didn't seem capable of beating anybody. They are a side who hold a lot of players that will be familiar to English fans, but could have it all to do to progress from the group stage.

Strengths

A lot of Algeria's players ply their trade in top league around Europe, so are more than capable of causing of upset in this group. As a result of this Algeria often come out with fast, free-flowing, attack football that on it's day would cause anyone a problem. There is however one major flaw with this, which leads us onto the weaknesses.

Weaknesses

The self destruct button is one that features heavily in Algerian national football. In this seasons African Nations there was a perfect example of this. After defeating Ivory Coast and looking like they could go on to triumph in the competition, they fell to a 4-0 defeat to Egypt in the semi-finals. This type of inconsistency could cost them dearly in South Africa.

Key Man - Karim Ziani

One of the most experienced players of the Algerian squad, Ziani was voted player of the year in his home country from 2004-2006 while playing in France. His creativity on the left is key to his teams success, with him being both capable of attacking down the line or drifting inside. After impressing he earned a move to Marseille where he become an integral member of the squad, before a move to Wolfsburg last summer. After both he and his side failed to hit the heights of last season, his only big news was a bust up with Bosnian striker Edin Dzeko. Despite this he stared in his sides run to the semi-final of the African Nations, and he needs to take that form to South African if Algeria have a chance of getting out of this tough group.

One to Watch - Nadir Belhadj

The Portsmouth left back caught the eye last season despite his club sides doomed plight, and as a result is now the target of many top sides. His attacking intentions saw him score and create many chances, and his partnership down the left hand side with Ziani could be crucial. Both love to attack, although this could create space for other teams to take advantage of.

Manager - Rabah Saadane

Saadane is now remarkably in his fifth spell in charge of the national side in a little less than 30 years. He says he loves the job like no other, but he could struggle to escape a group that will be hard fought.

Odds - 500/1

Prediction - Will have to be in top form if they are to make it to the knockout rounds.

Slovenia - World Ranking 23

Slovenia may have been shock qualifiers after defeating Russia in a play-off, but they will be far from push overs in this group. They conceded a mere four goals during qualifiers, with their big striker Milivoje Novakovic bagging five at the other hand to see them through. This is there second World Cup in 20 years since declaring Independence, and although they may lack sheer quality throughout they should be far from underestimated.

Strengths

Simple football, played effectively by players who are more than capable of creating a shock (like they did against the multi million pound talent of Russia). By only shipping four goals in qualifying they have shown strength at at the back, backed up by Udinese goalkeeper Samir Handanovic who was described as one the best in Seria A by Gianluigi Buffon. Robert Koren has transformed himself since being handed the captaincy, while Valter Birsa's left boot could cause anyone problems (see one to watch below).

Weaknesses

While they have had a solid back bone during qualification, they haven't hit the back of the net at regular intervals hence only securing there place through a play-off. In addition to this there solid defence could be found out when the come up against top quality opposition, in the shape of England and maybe the USA.

Key Man - Milijove Novakovic

A hero in his native country, his five goal return in qualifying was key to them reaching the finals. While he stands at 6ft 4ins to call him a target man would fall way short of the mark. He holds the ball up well, links play and has a good work ethic to match. The focal point of the Slovenian attack could be key to Slovenia reaching the second round.

One to Watch - Valter Birsa

Auxerre's attacking winger is the youngest man to represent Slovenia, and he certainly has the ability to make people stand up and take count in South Africa. His neat touches and smooth style epitomise his play, and he has had an excellent season both for club and country.

Manager - Matjaz Kek

After making his way through the ranks of Slovenian youth teams, Kek was appointment senior manager in 2007. He highlighted his tactical nous by outsmarting Guus Hiddink when Russia manager, and has also tipped England to go all the way in South Africa. Mind games? Make up you own mind.

Odds - 200/1

Prediction - Could struggle to make it out of the group, need to ensure there defence holds up and Novakovic is on top form.

USA - World Ranking 14

Despite being ridiculed throughout the 90s, and being the worst side in France'98 they have come on leaps and bounds in the last decade. They reached the Confederations Cup final last year, beating Spain on the way and narrowly losing out to Brazil in the final courtesy of a late late goal.

They will hope to improve on 2006s showing when they lost out at the group stage, by emulating 2002s achievements when they made it to the quarter-final.

Strengths

Strong foundations and a tenacious work rate is what this USA side is all about, with flair and creativity tacking a back seat. All three goalkeepers selected ply their trade in the premier league, with first choice Tim Howard having enjoyed another successful season at Everton. Main man Landon Donovan (see key man below) also showed his credentials during a short stay at the Toffees, while Clint Dempsey could be integral to success after a good season at Fulham.

Weaknesses

Strength in depth doesn't appear in this USA side, with many regarded as second rate. DaMarcus Beasley failed in the Premier League, and doesn't look half the player he was at PSV Eindhoven. They could also be found wanting defensively, where Jay DeMerit has been injured most of the season, and Oguchi Onyewu has found his appearances sparse at AC Milan. This defence looks far from formidable, and Howard could have his work cut out in goal.

In addition they lack an out and out goalscorer, with the burden likely to be taken by Donovan and Dempsey. Added to two MLS strikers and one that plays in the Mexican Primera Division, the numbers are made up by Jozy Altidore who didn't enjoy the best of spells at Hull City.

Key Man - Landon Donovan

USA's all time top scorer shut up the doubters of MLS football, by proving his quality during a brief spell at Everton. After an unsuccessful move to Germany early in his career, Donovan has recovered and become a key player for the national side. Often sitting just behind the strikers, he bagged five goals in qualifying including one against Honduras which sealed their route to South Africa.

One to Watch - Michael Bradley

Bradley has silenced the critics that said he was only being selected for being the bosses son, by putting in a series on sterling performances for his national side. His has been a regular in the Borussia Mochengladbach side for two seasons, and has become somewhat of a box to box midfielder after declaring he couldn't afford to be a one dimensional central midfielder.

Manager - Bob Bradley

Despite having never coached outside the USA, Bradley has a whole host of experience within his homeland. A previous coach of the USA under-23 side, he took over fro Bruce Arena when his mentor put down the reins in 2006. His attention to details is always talked about, and it is this which helped him engineer the victory over European Champions Spain last year.

Odds - 66/1

Prediction - Should make it out of Group C, barring a remarkable turn of events.

Next Time

Australia, Germany, Ghana and Serbia of group D will be previewed in tomorrows blog.

England breakdown

Following the unsuccessful qualifying campaign for Euro 2008, England needed a major overhaul. And they got just that. Fabio Capello came in, and transformed an unconfident team into one that breezed through the group. One of the top points scorers was coupled with one the highest goal scorers in Wayne Rooney, with a 4-1 win in Croatia the main highlight. The usual height of expectation has already begun in England, just this time they may not disappoint.

Goalkeepers

Two experienced 'keepers are being pushed all the way by the new kid on the block. In recent months Robert Green has over taken David James, but Joe Hart's form while on loan at Birmingham has caused much debate about the 'trouble position' of the last few years. Capello's claims that he picks on form suggests that Hart will be the one given the gloves, although that policy seems to have gone out of the window with some selections in his 23 man squad. It is widely thought that Green is the one that will be trusted with the gloves in South Africa, as James' injury troubles seems to have cost him. However if it was down to the fans, the general consensus would show Hart to be the overwhelming favourite.

Defenders

In the two warm up friendlies there have been many problems highlighted, with one being the defence and what seems to be a lack of organisation. This is a rare problem for an Italian coach, although it is not new, clean sheets have been a rare phenomenon during Capello's reign. Pace seems to be the main problem in the center, with usual paring John Terry and Rio Ferdinand not blessed with great pace. Neither Matthew Upson nor utility man Jamie Carragher solve the problem, so it would be left to Ledley King if was needed. Although this problem could have solved itself, due to the injury to Ferdinand it looks like King will get the nod to step up. If Ashley Cole keeps himself fit there's no problem there, although Steven Warnock as deputy would be less inclined to bomb forward. Glen Johnson on the right still divides opinion with his attacking intentions, but he is the best we've got and in all honesty isn't anywhere near as bad a defender as is made out. With a bit of confidence the first choice of Johnson, Terry, Ferdinand and Cole is solid, and with Gareth Barry coming back it could be just the confidence that is needed to keep those all important clean sheets.

Midfield

Theo Walcott's omission has got many questioning Capello's selection, but I believe he has made the right choice. We have Aaron Lennon, Shaun Wright-Phillips and Joe Cole all naturally right footed, but capable of operating both wings. Pace alone doesn't make you a good footballer, and these three all offer something different which is well needed. The midfield could be the hardest position to guess, due to the sheer quality that lies throughout. Although if it goes with the usual decisions, it will no doubt be Lennon, Barry, Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard. But I whole heartedly believe Michael Carrick, James Milner, Wright-Phillips or Cole could fill the breach if needs be. There is plenty of dynamism and creativity within the eight selected here, and it could be these players that make the difference both going forward and in defence.

Strikers

Darren Bent was the unlucky party to miss out up front, with, to almost everyone's dismay, Emile Heskey was chosen instead. However i don't believe this decision is as catastrophic as everyone is making out. It is well known that Wayne Rooney likes partnering Heskey in attack, due to the sheer amount of chance he makes due to his strength at holding the ball up. If this can be used in the right way Heskey could be key to success this summer. Jermain Defoe and Peter Crouch make up the four, with the Tottenham men showing this season that they are more than capable of having an impact in South Africa.. Although both were out scored in the Premier League by Darren Bent.

Key Man - Wayne Rooney

No one else could be given this title except the enigmatic Manchester United striker. With Cristiano Ronaldo gone he has shone for his club side in front of goal, and has taken that form onto the international stage with England. Injured when he went to the last World Cup he couldn't have the desired impact, and ended the tournament with that controversial red card against Portugal in the quarter-final. He is now determined to set the record straight and shown the world what he is capable of, with Capello's advice to be more selfish and stay up front ringing in his ears.

One to Watch - Joe Cole

Before the injury troubles that has blighted his last few years, Cole was a key member of the England squad. And now back to regular football he is reminding us all of why exactly that is. His tricky style of play makes him exciting to watch, and the knowledge that he is capable of doing the unexpected makes him difficult for defenders to handle. His impact in the friendly against Japan has hopefully set a precedent as to what we can expect this summer.

Manager - Fabio Capello

The Italian has won trophies where ever he has plied his trade, and he doesn't intent on stopping now. Although admitting this is his most difficult challenge, he has instilled a belief into the England squad that has been lacking for years. Similarly to 2006 this could be our best chance yet of emulating 1966, and more importantly the players also seem to think so.

Odds - 6/1

Prediction - A semi-final place at the least is all what would be considered an acceptable return.

Next Time

Tomorrow I will be looking at the rest of group C, Algeria, Slovenia and USA.

Group B

Argentina - World Ranking 7

It wouldn't be a World Cup without South America's version of Germany (well that's the view if your an England fan anyway). But for much of the qualifying campaign that was the way it seemed like it was going to be, as Argentina slipped in and out of the automatic qualification places. The two time winners though have a few late goals to thank, and after stumbling to a 1-0 win in Uruguay in the final game they sealed qualification.

When the tournament gets underway though one thing is for certain, this side will bear little resemblance to that which took to the field during the qualification phase. Technically they are one of the finest sides around, and with a certain little fire cracker that could walk into any side around the globe they certainly cannot be underestimated. Even with the unpredictable figure that currently occupies the hot seat.

Strengths

Argentina have th ability to dazzle, especially upfront, where La Liga trio Gonzalo Higuain, Sergio Aguero and the irrepressible Lionel Messi to choose from. Add to that mix Carlos Tevez who has been in spectacular form for Manchester City this season, and the ability to score goals could scare any defence.

They have also chose some more reliable players with the likes of Martin Demichelis, Gabriel Heinze and Walter Samuel all going. However Diego Maradona's selection policy has come under fierce criticism, which leads us onto this sides main weakness.

Weaknesses

When you leave players of the calibre of Esteban Cambiasso out of the side, you would think some quality is in the going to replace him. However, when you hear his replacement is Manchester United and Chelsea flop Juan Sebastian Veron Argentina suddenly become less frightening. The overall age of the squad seems on the high side in place, with people beyond their prime securing selection. Along with Veron (35) you can add Martin Palermo (36), and this seems like it could be a major problem for this side.

Cambiasso will be joined by Javier Zanetti who has also been overlooked in a more baffling selection. These two have been instrumental in the Inter Milan side which has secured a treble, certainties therefore to go to the World Cup. Well not in the eyes of Maradona, who has chosen Jonas Gutierrez amongst several who are clearly lacking in experience. Two players with enormous experience have been left at home, a huge risk.

Key Man - Lionel Messi

Who else? The Barcelona man hit an incredible 34 goals in La Liga last term, a feat that hadn't been achieved since Ronaldo in 96/97. Messi is simply the best player in the world right now, and while some cynics argue he doesn't perform as well without Xavi and Andres Iniesta supplying him, his class can't be doubted. He is capable of turning a game in an instant, and while he won't win the World Cup alone he could go a long way to deciding it's destiny.

One to Watch - Angel Di Maria

Benfica's 22-year-old winger is one of the most sought after players in the World right now, with every European super power chasing his signature. Di Maria possesses an incredible ability to cross whilst also capable of scoring from seemingly anywhere on the pitch. With a good World Cup though his price will rocket, and then they'll only be one winner. Benfica.

Manager - Diego Maradona

An idol in his native country, Maradona may have to rely on a huge slice of luck if he is to repeat his exploits as a player in this competition. The man involved in the biggest controversy in World Cup history, also scored the best goal in the same game. However he hasn't achieved anything in any level of management, so could have bitten off more than he can chew. One think is for certain though, come July Maradona will still be an idol in Argentina.

Odds - 8/1

Prediction - Semi-final at best, no doubt a talented team but some odd selections mixed with the managers lack of experience will cost them.

Greece - World Ranking 13

Greece could be set for there most successful World Cup in the nations history, all they have to do is score a goal. There only other World Cup campaign was in USA '94, where they were smashed 4-0, 4-0 and 2-0 by Argentina, Bulgaria and Nigeria. With two of those sides also drawn in this group, revenge could be the issue of the day.

It is now six years since Greece shocked the footballing world by triumphing at Euro 2004, and while this side lacks the quality of that team they certainly make up for it in determination.

Strengths

The unity of this side isn't under question, with eight players coming from Panathinaikos. Sotirios Kyrgiakos' form at Liverpool this term should breathe confidence into the backline, and sure them up so a repeat of '94 doesn't ensue. In addition they have some handy strikers that could muscle there way to a goal or two. Angelos Charisteas, the Euro 2004 hero, and Theofanis Gekas, the 2010 qualifying campaigns top scorer, could be key to progress from the group phase.

Weaknesses

There is a lack of real star quality in this side that could ultimately cost them. They can't call on the top leagues in Europe for their players, so have to rely on there own. In addition, in parts they are an ageing side and it remains to be seen whether the fitness levels will be up there to compete.

Key Man - Giorgos Karagounis

Panathinaikos' midfield enforcer is the main man both for club and country. Capable of picking a pass and a shot he can boss a game from the middle, as well as helping out at set pieces.

The Greece captain is now a veteran of the game, with experience at both Inter Milan and Benfica, he will have it all to do to rouse his troops into getting out of Group B.

One to Watch - Theofanis Gekas

Gekas is a goal machine for his country, as he netted 10 goals in qualification for his country. It is a feat that used to be a part of his club play as he scored 20 times in 32 appearance for Bochum, before sealing a big money move to Bayer Leverkusen. However he failed to live up to expectations, and loans to both Portsmouth and Hertha Berlin followed. But despite his troubles at club level, he remains a key player for Greece.

Manager - Otto Rehhagel

A man abound with experience, Otto Rehhagel counts three Bundesliga titles, a Uefa Cup and the European Cup Winners Cup among his greatest moments at club level. However it is certainlt his triumph at Euro 2004 that was his greatest moment, and led to the German beng named Greek of the year following that most unlikely of triumphs. His experience and tactics could be key to Greece escaping the group.

Odds - 125/1

Prediction - Greece will almost certainly break there duck and score in South Africa, but they have it all to do to get out of the group.

Nigeria - World Ranking 21

The largest and, for some time now, they have been considered the strongest of the African teams, but they now face stern opposition for that tag from the likes of Ivory Coast and Cameroon. Nigeria's preperations for the first World Cup held in then African continent hasn't been the smoothest. First they struggled in the African Nations which they were expected to win, a feat that led to a change at the helm with Lars Lagerback coming in. Then the passport problem that almost led to Obafemi Martins transfer to Newcastle, once again reared it's ugly head.

Now with more stringent age testing, the Nigerian FA is confident nobody is ten years older than they say they are. And with a more experienced side than previous years, this team could well shock a few people at this years tournament.

Strengths

There is a good mix of youth and telent within this side, that has been missing in recent years. Nigeria have always been known to have a team full of youth, but now a blend is in place it could be of a great benefit.

Players like Yakubu, Yobo and Mikel have plenty of Premier League experience, and should this be utilised in the correct way it could go a long way to ensuring progression from the group stage.

Weaknesses

Game plans have led to the downfall of Nigeria in recent years, with unsuccessful African Nations campaigns compounded by a failure to qualify to the 2006 World Cup. Strength and speed aren't qualities that have worked well together for this side, and this one dimensional aspect could be what costs them this time around.

Key Man - John Obi Mikel

An important member of the Chelsea doubled winning side this term following the injury to Michael Essien, Mikel has begun to flourish and live up to his reputation. He has shown that he can pass and tackle well under Carlo Ancelotti, and if he can cut out those odd rash challenges that often blight his game he could well have an excellent summer.

Once to Watch - Peter Odemwingie

Although not one of the more well known players of this squad, Odemwingie has begun to flourish in recent years for his national side. A pacy right winger, he is more than capable of bombing down the wing and wipping in a cross and cutting inside of unleashing a shot at goal. He was arguably Nigeria's best player at both this years African Nations and during qualifying, and if he builds on that in South Africa a lucrative move could follow.

Manager - Lars Lagerback

The former Sweden coach enjoyed a successful nince year spell in charge of his home nation, before failure to qualify for this years World Cup led to his sacking. However following Shuaibu Amodu's sacking at Nigeria after the African Nations, Lagerback beat a host of candidates including Glenn Hoddle and Sven Goran Eriksson to be boss of Nigeria. If he can utilise his vast experience and that of his players, the Super Eagles could be dark horses to cause an upset.

Odds - 100/1

Prediction - It will no doubt be between Nigeria and Greece for the runners up spot behind Argentina, so if they come out on top in that clash they will be through. However they wouldn't progress much further than the first round of the knockout phase.

South Korea - World Ranking 47

Since there great showing when they co-hosted with Japan in 2002(before which they has never won a World Cup group game), South Korea can no longer rely on the tag of unknown quantities. After beating Portugal in the group and Italy and Spain in the knockouts they were undone by Germany, but they failed to follow it up in 2006 as they crashed out at the group stage.

After finishing top of there qualfying group this time though, they could once again be set to spring a few suprises.

Strengths

One thing South Korea have in abundance is an unbelievable team unity and work ethic. Although a common feature of Asian football it is summed by the South Koreans, who can often simply out work you and cause defeat that way.

Goals are also shared around the side, with attack midfield and defence often chipping in. The midfield often backs up the strikeforce perfectly, something that could also work in there favour.

Weaknesses

As already mentioned the tag of being an unknown entity is now more or less gone, with a lot of the squad now playing there trade at big clubs. However if you delve deeper this is restricted to the attack and defence, with five of the eight defenders playin there trade in South Korea, with one in Japan, one South Korea and the other Germany. Only Lee Young-Pyo is well known, but he is now with Al-Hilal.

Key Man - Park Ji-Sung

Undoubtedly the crown jewel of this side, Park sums up all the qualities that make up football in this country. His disciplined and committed style has earned him cult hero status at old trafford, and he often pops with big performances and goals at key times. Park was key to South Korea's qualification, and will hope to take this form with him to South Africa.

One to Watch - Lee Chung-Yong

The 21-year-old has had a great season at Bolton Wanderers following his move to the Reebok last summer, a season that has seen him linked with a summer move to Liverpool. He likes to get forward and grab goals and assists, and could be a key string in the South Korean bow.

Manager - Huh Jung Moo

An unpopular choice in 2007 when Mick McCarthy and Gerard Houllier were linked with the post, he has since gone unbeaten since his appointment and won around the fans. He has been involved with the national side on many occasion, including three as manager, his incredible run could well come to end this summer as he tries to emulate Guus Hiddink's achievements of 2002.

Odds - 250/1

Prediction - They could well struggle to lift themselves off bottom spot of this group, barring some remarkable results just like eight years ago.

Next Time

Join me tomorrow when I will be taking an in depth look at England.

Group A

SOUTH AFRICA - World Ranking 83

We'll start this preview with the largely unfancied hosts, who will have it all to do just to make it out of group A. A recent run to the semi-finals of the Confederations Cup has restored some belief into the nation, where they matched Brazil until an 88th minute Daniel Alves goal, but all three other teams in this group have some pedigree.

However being on home soil will no doubt improve their chances, but the fact that no host has ever gone out at the group stage will play on their mind. The side has gone backwards since the 2002 World Cup, and didn't even qualify last time out. That coupled with this years pour African Nations showing, where they didn't make it out of the group, will make it a tough tournament for the hosts.

One thing is for certain though the fans of Bafana Bafana - translated as 'the boys the boys' - will make it very colourful and noisy. Particularly with those Vuvuzela's we are hearing so much about.

Strengths

Out of the many holes that could provide their undoing, the hosts are fairly organised and do have a fairly strong defence. Their defence is made up of both European and South African based players, and this eclectic eclectic mix could work in their favour. Aaron Mokoena, just one cap away from his century, is the stalwart and often breaks up play from the centre of midfield. And after his turbulent season at Portsmouth, he will be determined to make a mark this summer.

Weaknesses

With top scorer Benni McCarthy currently out of favour, goals could be the main problem for this side. McCarthy hasn't enjoyed the best of spells for West Ham since his January move and as a result is out of the squad, so someone's going to have to be a hero if they are to progress.

Key Man - Steven Pienaar

Despite his slow start on Merseyside, Pienaar is now an integral cog in David Moyes side. His pace, trickery and eye for goal have enhanced his reputation, however the latter needs to improved for country as he's netted just twice. If he can put transfer rumours out of his mind, Pienaar could just be the spark required.

One to Watch - Kagisho Dikgacoi

The Fulham man hasn't really been given a chance at Craven Cottage, but here he forms a key partnership in the centre of midfield with Captain Mokoena. A good tournament here could restart his career, and this determination could ensure they are a tough side to break down.

Manager - Carlos Alberto Parreira

Now in his second spell in charge of South Africa, split up by a spell at Fluminese in 2009, Parreira certainly has a tough job on his hands. However he is very experienced, and a World Cup winner when he took his home nation of Brazil to the title in 1994, so he could provide the spark required.

Odds - 125-1

Prediction - If Mokoena can instill some of the fight evident at Portsmouth during the final months of the Premiership season, South Africa could have an outside chance of making it out of the group. Realistically though, it is a very long shot.

France - World Ranking 9

The build up to this year World Cup hasn't been the smoothest for the '98 winners. Firstly a poor qualifying campaign led to a playoff place, that was settled by THAT Thierry Henry moment. Then a sex scandal rocked the build up, before it was confirmed that Raymond Domenech would be leaving after the tournament with Laurent Blanc taking over.

Never has a French side been so hated both internally and externally, and they will have a lot to do to silence the critics that have been circling for years.

Strengths

This side is crammed full of quality throughout, and on there day could well be capable of defeating anyone in the world. Their midfield has plenty of craft and creativity, with the goalkeeping department also very strong. Both Hugo Lloris and Steve Mandanda have been linked with every European heavyweight, and the latter has also just won the league title with Marseille.

Weaknesses

It is well documented that age is the reason behind the sudden decline of France, however you could also point the finger at their lack of goals. Nicolas Anelka can't turn his club form into his country, Thierry Henry isn't looking anywhere near his best anymore and the one time golden boy of French football Karim Benzema isn't even selected following his lack of game time at Real Madrid. Instead Domenech has turned to forgotten man Djibril Cisse who has netted 29 times for Panathinaikos this term to turn his sides fortune.

Key Man - Franck Ribery

When your called the 'jewel of French football' by Zinedine Zidane, it is fair to say that some kind of creative spark can be expected. Last season he helped Bayern Munich to the double contributing 16 goals, which fuelled rumours of a £60m move. However a new contract has been signed, and with his future sorted his sole focus is now the World Cup.

One to Watch - Mathieu Valbuena

The creative Marseille midfielder was a suprise inclusion in France's 23 man squad, but netted on his debut against Costa Rica to silence some of the doubters. He is battling in a midfield full of creative spark, but he could just slip under the radar and shock a few people this summer.

Manager - Raymond Domenech

After taking the job in 2004, Domenech was always going to be onto loser after he confessed that astrology played a bigger part in team selection than statistics. And after it was confirmed that Laurent Blanc will soon be replacing him, motivation could be hard to come by. On the other hand, a surprise World Cup win could be the ultimate send off to show his nation what they'll be missing.

Odds - 18-1

Prediction - France should walk the group with some ease, but a run to the quarter-final is perhaps the best they can hope for unless Domenech can utilise some of the attacking talent at his disposal.

Mexico - World Ranking 17

Sven came and left in double quick time after a less than impressive qualifying campaign, that left Mexico on the verge of not qualifying for this year World Cup. However Javier Aguirre came in and restored the lost belief, and guided them to the finals. Therefore keeping up their impressive record of World Cup appearances since 1994.

A stark improvement is needed though if they are to progress, as they notoriously do not travel to World Cups well. Apart from reaching the last eight in hosting years of 1970 and 1988, they have only ever reached the second round.

Strengths

One of the main points to note that came out of Mexico's qualifying campaign, is the depth that goals can be found throughout the side. Eighteen different players found the back of the net, while young players have also begun to find there feet. This youth though is harnessed by experienced, the likes of Rafael Marquez and Cuauhtemoc Blanco are still heavily relied upon.

Weaknesses

Goals can often be leaked where they are on top, e.g. the recent England friendly. On top of that they also didn't do anything to quash there 'dirty' reputation that follows them around.

Key Man - Carlos Salcido

Despite being one of the older members of the Mexico side, Salcido's attacking up the left flank is an integral part of his play. He had an impressive tournament in Germany 2006 after which he was linked with Arsenal, and he will be hoping to continue where he left off.

One to Watch - Gio Dos Santos

Spurs forgotten man Dos Santos has found his feet in the national side, and has begun to become an important part of the squad. If he can get back to the type of form when he broke through at Barcelona, he could have a sterling tournament and put himself well and truly in the shop window.

Manager - Javier Aguirre

In his second stint as manager, Aguirre took over from the doomed Sven era and guided Mexico to the Concacaf Gold Cup and the World Cup. He is however a controversial character, being fined £16,000 after a Gold Cup bust up in which he kicked Panama's Ricardo Phillips.

Odds - 80-1

Prediction - If they can overcome Uruguay they will be strong favourites to progress from the group behind France, however history tells us this is where it will end.

Uruguay - World Ranking 16

After just squeezing through qualifying by a single point, Uruguay will not be overly ambitious but will be confident of beating there last World Cup finish. They crashed out of the group stage in 2002 (along with France), an didn't even qualify last time out in Germany. A marked improvement is needed if they are to beat Mexico to second place.

Strengths

Undoubtedly Uruguay's main strength is the attacking talent that lies within their squad. Diego Forlan is now a veteran of the side, but is arguably in the form of his life for Atletico Madrid (just ask Liverpool and Fulham). Alongside him is Luis Suarez who is the jewel in the Ajax crown, a player of terrific talent whose links to Manchester United are seemingly unending.

Weaknesses

Inconsistency has blighted Uruguay for many a year, and it is something that will need to be sorted before June 11. They no doubt have the quality to progress, but a 6-0 win over Peru followed by a 4-0 thrashing by Brazil in qualifying sums this up.

Key Man - Diego Forlan

The Manchester United flop has found his feet in La Liga, and is going to the World Cup in great form and with great confidence after his Europa League success. After first moving to Spain he become golden boot winner at Villareal, before moving to Atletico to replace Fernando Torres. A difficult task it would seem, but his scoring has continued and he could from a great partnership with my one to watch.

One to Watch - Luis Suarez

A terrific young talent who could greatly benefit from the wise old head of Diego Forlan. He been scoring goals galore in Holland for Ajax, so attack could really be the best form of defence for Uruguay.

Manager - Oscar Washington Tabarez

Another coach in his second spell in charge of his national side, Tabarez is known as El Maestro in his homeland due to his ability to make the most of limited resources. Spells at AC Milan and Boca Juniors show that he has ability to atleast take Uruguay through the group.

Odds - 100-1

Prediction - With the form of Diego Forlan, they should just get second place ahead of Mexico. However along with France, they won't progress much further.

Next Time

Join me tomorrow, as we go through group B of Argentina, Nigeria, South Korea and Greece.

World Cup - almost here!

The 2010 Fifa World Cup in South Africa is almost upon us, and in the lead up to football premier competition Sports Portal will be previewing each group and each team. Looking at various aspects such as strengths, weaknesses, star players etc, and paying particular attention to England/ In addition I will be looking at each stadium that is being used.

Throughout the World Cup I will also be blogging on many different aspects and on all the news however big or small, so keep your eyes peeled and be sure to come back to check it out!

Final day is upon us!

Leicester Tigers and Saracens fight it out later today for the right to be Guinness Premiership Champions.

And while Leicester are seasoned pro's, and have experienced this occasion for the last six consecutive seasons, Saracens are relatively new to this.

Following last years South African but out, plenty of people from that very same nation have found there over to Vicarage Road, including influential Director of Rugby Brendan Venter who is of course banned from attending today.

While Leicester who have to be considered favourites after there overwhelming first place finish in the regular season, you can't count out Sarries.

If they are to triumph though they have to recreate the game at Welford Road earlier this month, when against the odds again they beat today's opponents 32-23 on there remarkable home patch.

Glen Jackson, who's retiring after the game, has been kicking everything in recent week and he has to continue this form to force mistakes from the Tigers pack as they did three weeks ago.

Anther thing they have to do is fight from first to last.

They did that terribly well at Welford Road, but if you give this Tigers side any space they will punish you in the utmost fashion.

The Sarries pack dominated at 8 May, and if they can do that again the pendulum will no doubt swing in there favour.

Following that victory not so long ago, it could be argued that Sarries will be going into the match the more confident.

They cannot let that go to there heads, but if they follow that same blueprint for success there's no doubt they will walk away from Twickenham as Premiership Champions.

New faces for Baa-Baas test

So the sight we never thought we would see again has materialised, Charlie Hodgson is back for the Red Rose at fly-half.

In the absence of Toby Flood, the man who carries most of the hope at Edgeley Park returns to start for the first time since that doomed tour in 2008.

In a poor Sale side this season however he has been a standout performer, and there has been calls from the Northwest for well over a year for their man to be given another chance.

Now that chance has finally come, and he must prove himself along with half-back partner Danny Care.

He isn't the only one that is been given chance in this non cap outing though, with players from Leicester Tigers and the injured Jonny Wilkinson all missing out.

The Tigers of course will be gracing the Twickenham turf on Saturday in the Premiership final, so we will see many other new faces in the side.

Shontayne Hape, Jon Golding and Dave Attwood will make their first appearances for their country at centre, prop and lock.

One of these in particular though is very exciting, and that is Bath Rugby man Hape.

He was around the squad for the duration of this years Six Nations, and was perhaps unlucky not to be given a chance then.

Another exciting addition is Ben Foden continuing at full-back, where he performed so well when given chance in the Six Nations.

His running game is second to none, and he can no doubt be a very dangerous outlet for England.

More flair in the backs in provided by Saracens bound David Strettle, who is back for his country following a series of injury problems.

It is fantastic to see the Harlequins man competing at the top level again, and if he can reach his past level we could be set for an excting time.

One overwhelming theme throughout the startin 15 though is the mix of youth and experience throughout.

Only the backrow contains three fullly experienced individuals, in the shape of James Haskell, Steffon Armitage and Nick Easter.

Even without the Tigers plays this team on the outset seems relatively strong, so ahead of the summer tour Martin Johnson could certainly have a few headaches to deal with.

The team to play Barbarians in full:

Ben Foden, Mark Cueto, Mike Tindall, Shontayne Hape, David Strettle, Charlie Hodgson, Danny Care, Jon Golding, Steve Thompson, Paul Doran-Jones, Dave Attwood, Tom Palmer, James Haskell, Steffon Armitage, Nick Easter

Replacements:

Lee Mears, Tim Payne, Dan Ward-Smith, Joe Worsley, Joe Simpson, Olly Barkley, Matthew Tait.