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World Cup Draw 2010 - GROUP A

GROUP A

Team 1 - South Africa
Team 2 - Mexico
Team 3 - Uruguay
Team 4 - France

South Africa – World Ranking (86)
There is an air of cautious optimism in South Africa as the Rainbow Nation prepares to write what is undoubtedly the most significant chapter of its short football history. A mammoth task lies ahead. Admittedly, home advantage has contributed to sides with less talent than South Africa reaping rewards from the World Cup. Talented midfield maestro Steven Pienaar is South Africa's prize assert. In the absence of the country's most successful striker, Benni McCarthy, who remains out of favour, Pienaar brings much-needed innovation and imagination to the side. Their more than convincing performances at the FIFA Confederations Cup last June, shows that the Bafana Bafana have what it takes to cause an upset next summer.

Mexico – World Ranking (15)
Mexico were indebted to the return of old coach Javier Aguirre, who replaced Swede Sven-Goran Eriksson in April 2009, and the fine play of veteran Cuauhtemoc Blanco in the final stretch of their qualification campaign. They overcame a disastrous patch midway through the competition to rebound and finish just one slim point behind their arch-rivals, the USA – adding their name to teams set to fight for the World Cup trophy.

Uruguay – World Ranking (19)
Just as they did in 2001 and 2005, Uruguay finished fifth in the ten-team qualifying group, which meant yet another play-off. And thanks to an away goal against Costa Rica, the country with the one of the richest football histories on record, booked their place at South Africa 2010. Sprinkled with players from Europe’s major leagues, Oscar Tabarez’s young side are determined to impress in South Africa, and in Diego Forlan and Luis Suarez they have the star quality to advance beyond the group phase and into the knockout rounds, for the first time in two decades.

France – World Ranking (7)
France’s qualification for next year’s tournament was easily the most controversial in the history of the tournament. The obvious handball from Thierry Henry has been watched by millions of people worldwide and caused uproar amongst fair-play loving fans from across the globe. Despite these protestations, Raymond Domenech’s side have booked their place at South Africa 2010. In spite of their manager, the French will hope to erase all memory of the ‘cheat’ incident, with a convincing performance at the World Cup finals and they certainly have the players to do just that.



 

World Cup Draw 2010 - GROUP B

GROUP B

Team 1 - Argentina
Team 2 - Nigeria
Team 3 - South Korea
Team 4 - Greece

Argentina – World Ranking (8)
Two-time World Cup winners Argentina will be amongst the favourites for this summer’s World Cup, despite their less than convincing route to South Africa 2010. Manager Diego Maradona’s tactics have been questionable at times and although he managed to heave his team over the line in the end, their campaign generated more questions than answers. The lowest point of Argentina’s qualification campaign was their 6-1 defeat to Bolivia, a result which was shrugged off by both manager and team. Despite their poor form in qualification, Argentina will be serious tournament contenders and always seem to rise to the occasion.

Nigeria – World Ranking (22)
Nigeria qualified on a dramatic final day in the African Zone. Still stinging from their failure to qualify for Germany 2006, the Super Eagles looked destined for yet more heartbreak until Obafemi Martins, one of the high-profile forwards who had disappointed last time around, struck twice to secure a dramatic and decisive comeback win in Kenya and secure a place at South Africa 2010.

South Korea – World Ranking (52)
Park Ji-Sung has played a key role in Korea Republic's two previous FIFA World Cup campaigns and established himself as the captain of his country in recent years. The multifunctional winger of Manchester United is now an indispensible member of the Taeguk Warriors, with his ability to create space and chances for his team-mates. Any match time he can pick up with Man United between now and the summer, will be key to the Korean Republic’s chances

Greece – World Ranking (12)
For any country to prosper in world football, it is important that talented players constantly emerge within their ranks. Greece profited from the emergence of Theofanidis Gekas as a force to be reckoned with in the international arena, during their qualifying campaign. Otto Rehhagel’s side have sustained the tactics which led them to European glory in 2004 and the addition of one of Europe’s most prolific marksman to their team, means they could be in with a shout of at least progressing into the knock-out stages.

World Cup Draw 2010 - GROUP C

GROUP C

Team 1 - England
Team 2 - USA
Team 3 - Algeria
Team 4 - Slovenia

England – World Ranking (9)
Perennial underachievers England, will hope that they can shake off the ‘bottlers’ tag and lift their first World Cup title since 1966. Fabio Capello’s side seemed to cruise through the qualification process, with nine wins and amazingly just one defeat. Since Capello’s appointment as national team coach, The Three Lions have gone from strength to strength. Many have toted the English as outstanding value in the outright betting for the World Cup 2010 and if their squad can gel properly next summer, it seems likely that they could finally bring home some silverware for their dedicated fans.

USA – World Ranking (14)
In typical fashion, the United States reached South Africa 2010 by qualifying in first place from the final six-team Hexagonal phase of North, Central America and Caribbean Zone. They have taken part at nine FIFA World Cups, with Mexico the only CONCACAF team involved in more editions of the showpiece event. Their 2-0 victory over Spain at South Africa 2009 prevented La Roja extending their 35-game unbeaten run, a record they hold jointly with Brazil. Coupled with this outstanding stat, the USA will be keen to build on their second-place finish at the 2009 Confederations Cup, when they jet-off to South Africa this summer.

Algeria – World Ranking (28)
The last time The Desert Foxes (Les Fennecs) managed to qualify for the FIFA World Cup finals, was in 1986.  Rabeh Saadane was at the helm back then and has also been the tactician behind this year’s successful qualification campaign. After a barren spell for the North African country in the year’s following Mexico ‘86, the Algerian FA decided to bring back saviour Saadane in 2007. Since then the ex-defender has been getting the best out of this Algerian side. Saadane’s side secured their place in South Africa 2010 with a play-off win over renowned African Nations side Egypt, a stat which will warrant respect at South Africa 2010.

Slovenia – World Ranking (33)
Slovenia grabbed the headlines last month when they ousted giants Russia, in their play-off match. Few had given the Slovenians a hope against Andrei Arshavin and Co, but a miserly defence that was breached just four times in ten qualifiers provided the basis for a spectacular success story. South Africa 2010 will be this fledgling football nation’s second appearance on the game’s biggest stage, and they are determined to continue defying the odds when they square up to the world’s best.

World Cup Draw 2010 - GROUP D

GROUP D

Team 1 - Germany
Team 2 - Australia
Team 3 - Serbia
Team 4 - Ghana

Germany – World Ranking (6)
The term of ‘tournament team’ has long been associated with Germany, as over the years they have proven to be the most resilient country in world football. Head coach Jachim Low has brought his side through the qualification process unbeaten, with eight wins and two draws. While teams like Portugal and England have been described as underachievers, Germany have been accused in the past of overachieving. However, it is expected that no matter which eleven German players take to the field this summer, results can and will be achieved. 

Australia – World Ranking (21)
Qualification for the 2010 World Cup was an achievement in itself for the four-time Oceania Football Confederation champions, Australia. The Socceroos have qualified for the FIFA World Cup finals just twice in the history of the tournament, back in 1974 and most recently in 2006. Australia secured their place at South Africa 2010 with two matches remaining in their AFC qualification group, a sign of their convincing performances in the build-up to this summer’s tournament. With a number of Premier League stars in their squad including Lucas Neill, Mark Schwarzer and Tim Cahill, Australia could be the surprise package for this year’s tournament.

Serbia – World Ranking (20)
When the draw for the first phase of European Zone qualifying was made, the consensus was that Austria, Romania and Serbia were competing for second place behind France. However, as we know France’s qualification for the 2010 World Cup took them through the play-off route. This was due to some bad performances from the French and some consistent performances from Serbia. Man United’s star centre-back Nemanja Vidic can be thanked for Serbia’s tight defensive record and will be at the heart of their campaign at next year’s tournament.

Ghana – World Ranking (37)
The only African side to get out of the group stages at the 2006 World Cup and first to qualify for next summer’s tournament, Ghana could be the surprise package of the African participants. Although lacking the firepower of fellow African nations Ivory Coast, Ghana are lead by Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien, a wealth of experience and talent. The Black Stars were the youngest team at World Cup 2006 and will hugely benefit from this experience at the highest level of world football.

World Cup Draw 2010 - GROUP E

GROUP E

Team 1 - Netherlands
Team 2 - Denmark
Team 3 - Japan
Team 4 - Cameroon

Netherlands – World Ranking (3)
In their eight World Cup appearances, the Oranje have reached the final twice, falling narrowly short of the global crown in 1974 and 1978. They also came in fourth at France 1998 but it seems that next year’s tournament could represent their greatest chance of silverware in sometime. The Dutch caught the eye of many on their journey to South Africa 2010, as they picked up eight wins from eight games. The backroom staff has made no efforts to conceal their ambitions and, once again, the Netherlands look on paper to have all the ingredients necessary to go far.

Denmark – World Ranking (26)
Former European champions Denmark fought arguably the most impressive qualification campaign of the 32 teams participating in next summer’s World Cup. Although not renowned for their individual prowess; as a team Denmark have the organization and team-work to beat any side. Manager Morten Olsen knows exactly how to get the best out of his players and will hope that he can celebrate his tenth year at the helm of the Danish side, with a successful World Cup campaign.

Japan – World Ranking (43)
Japanese coach Takeshi Okada has set his team the tough task of a top-four finish in next year’s FIFA World Cup. Japan is one of the most successful national teams in Asia, being a three-time winner of the Asian Cup and having qualified for the last four consecutive World Cup finals. They finished second behind Australia in Asia's Group A to qualify for their fourth straight World Cup finals. Their best finish was a last-16 spot on home turf in 2002.

Cameroon – World Ranking (11)
Not many would include African side Cameroon in their selections for the likely winners of the World Cup 2010 but with Samuel Eto’o on their team sheet, anything is possible. The Inter Milan striker proved pivotal in his side’s qualification, picking up nine goals in 11 matches, along the road to South Africa 2010. The appearance of the Indomitable Lions at this summer’s tournament will represent a record sixth FIFA World Cup tournament.  Like most African sides, they will bring a physical nature to each of their matches and will depend strongly on Eto’o to produce some moments of magic!

World Cup Draw 2010 - GROUP F

GROUP F

Team 1 - Italy
Team 2 - Paraguay
Team 3 - New Zealand
Team 4 - Slovakia

Italy – World Ranking (4)
Although the Azzurri remain unbeaten during the qualification campaign (seven wins and three draws), at times the former world champions were less than convincing. With an increasingly aging squad, Marcello Lippi has the tough balancing act of mixing experience with youth. The talent of veterans like captain Fabio Cannavaro will no doubt be invaluable and this renowned football nation will be expected to impress yet again, when they kick-off their South Africa 2010 campaign.

Paraguay – World Ranking (30)
Paraguay broke through the 30-point barrier for the first time since the current qualifying system came into being. Recording ten wins (the most in the group along with Chile), three draws and five defeats, they collected 33 points in all. Star player Roque Santa Cruz needs no introduction after several successful seasons in England, his importance to the national side undiminished despite his absence from most of the qualifying competition. If he can reach his peak at South Africa 2010, Paraguay may make this eighth World Cup Finals appearance, their best.

New Zealand – World Ranking (28)
Asian influences were key to New Zealand’s first successful preliminary campaign in 28 years. Australia’s departure to the AFC allowed the All Whites to claim a regional stranglehold in Oceania, while Bahrain were their victims in a memorable play-off triumph that witnessed a new generation of Kiwi stars secure a place in folklore. Coach Ricki Herbert is set to claim the rare honour of featuring at the FIFA World Cup as a player and as a coach in the nation’s only two FIFA World Cup appearances.

Slovakia – World Ranking (34)
Slovakia earned their place at South Africa 2010, when they topped a tough group including the Czech Republic, Poland and Slovenia. Solid at the back from Premier League heavyweight Liverpool, Martin Skrtel is a central figure for his country, while midfielder Marek Hamsik has both a knack of scoring goals for Napoli and the welcome habit of shining for the national side. While this Slovakian side is hardly filled with a string of household names, it will be their unity and team spirit which will aid their progression to the knock-out stages of the 2010 World Cup.

World Cup Draw 2010 - GROUP G

GROUP G

Team 1 - Brazil
Team 2 - North Korea
Team 3 - Ivory Coast
Team 4 - Portugal

Brazil – World Ranking (2)
It was no surprise when the Canarinho topped their qualification group under the guidance of ex-Brazilian captain Dunga. With their skill, strength and endless supply of superstars, it seems difficult to bet against the South American kingpins. They already have five World Cup titles under their belt and will be aiming to capture another one this summer. With only a handful of teams seeming to have the ability to overturn the Confederations Cup 2009 champions, it seems imminent that Dunga’s side will be involved in the latter stages of the tournament.

North Korea – World Ranking (84)
It was apt that Korea DPR, who endured the longest wait for World Cup football, should be one of the first teams to qualify for the tournament. The North Korean success story was, in fact, one of the preliminary campaign’s great fairy tales, with Kim Jong-Hun’s side edging out three of the continent’s traditional heavyweights - Saudi Arabia, Iran and United Arab Emirates – en route to South Africa 2010.

Ivory Coast – World Ranking (16)
With a host of names from the Premier League in their ranks, the Ivory Coast represent Africa’s greatest chance of silverware at this summer’s World Cup finals. Captain Didier Drogba is no doubt one of the finest strikers in the world and will believe his team has more than a fighting chance of reaching the latter stages of the tournament. On their first appearance in the World Cup in 2006, The Elephants felt the wrath of the so-called ‘Group of death’, which included the Netherlands and Argentina. A positive start and a good atmosphere in the team camp, could lead the Ivory Coast to glory!

Portugal – World Ranking (5)
Recording only one win from their first five group matches, Portugal quickly went from being group favourites to standing on the cusp of elimination. Luckily for fans of football Cristiano Ronaldo’s involvement on football’s biggest stage has been secured. However, coach Carlos Queiroz has a lot of work to do before next year’s tournament to ensure his team avoids a similar embarrassment to the qualification stages. With talents of players such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Pepe and Deco to call upon, Queiroz will know that expectations are sure to be high.

World Cup Draw 2010 - GROUP H

GROUP H

Team 1 - Spain
Team 2 - Switzerland
Team 3 - Honduras
Team 4 - Chile

Spain – World Ranking (1)
The Iberians have not rested on the laurels of their UEFA EURO 2008 victory, consistently bringing in talented new players while sticking to their commitment of playing attractive short-passing football. One of the main runners for this year’s tournament, Spain will no doubt be already feeling the pressure of expectation on their shoulders. It is the failure to properly deal with this pressure, which has resulted in such under-achieving in past tournaments. The team's success has been based on quality and balance throughout the side, in other words, they have a star player in every position. It’s hard to see Vicente del Bosque’s side failing to at least make the quarter-finals.

Switzerland – World Ranking (18)
A comfortable 3-0 victory over Luxembourg and a goalless draw with Israel in front of a delirious Basel crowd sealed top spot in European Group 2, confirmed a place in South Africa 2010 for Frei and company. It could have been a very different story for Frei’s side, after a 2-1 defeat to minnows Luxembourg in Zurich brought shame and embarrassment on the team. With that match permanently erased from their memories, Switzerland will be hoping to at least emulate the achievements of their forebears who made the last eight in 1934, 1938 and 1954.

Honduras – World Ranking (38)
Honduras suffered a nail-biting end to their World Cup 2010 qualification, just avoiding a play-off match when Costa Rica conceded a goal in the final moments of their last fixture. Admittedly Reinaldo Rueda’s adventurous side have been impressive in their qualification endeavours and will hope that their star players David Suazo, Wilson Palacios and Carlos Pavon, continue to perform on the biggest stage in world football.

Chile – World Ranking (17)
Like many of the teams participating in next summer’s tournament, Chile have a star- striker to thank for their place at South Africa 2010. Monterrey player Humberto Suazo finished the qualification campaign as top goal scorer in the South American Zone, with a tally of ten goals. La Roja have appeared in the World Cup finals seven times, with a third place finish in 1962 being their greatest achievement. 

Parreira steeled for tough test

The glitz and glamour of the World Cup draw in Cape Town turned into something of a horror show for hosts South Africa.

Despite being seeded, South Africa 100/1 were pooled in Group A alongside France 12/1, beaten finalists in 2006, and Uruguay 80/1 as well as Mexico 66/1 - their opponents for the tournament opener at Soccer City in Johannesburg on June 11.

No host nation has ever failed to progress beyond the first round, but Carlos Alberto Parreira, Bafana Bafana's Brazilian coach, believes his side have been handed just about the toughest draw possible.

He said: "Amongst these groups, I would say that ours is one of the most balanced and most difficult.

"It's the only one that has two former champions, France and Uruguay, plus Mexico, who are always qualifying and have lots of World Cup experience.

"But we do not have to regret anything, this is what we have to face and it presents us with a challenge. We have to prepare ourselves in a very good way."

If there is a 'Group of Death', however, then it is Group G rather than A, where Brazil 11/2, Portugal 25/1 and the Ivory Coast 28/1 have to battle it out and North Korea's campaign looks as good as over before a ball has been kicked.

Portugal coach Carlos Queiroz believes the opening match against an Ivory Coast side that should number stars such as Didier Drogba and Yaya Toure will make the difference.

Queiroz said: "Portugal starts against the Ivory Coast and in such a close test there is no room for error. The first match will be decisive."

Group D also looks daunting with  Germany 12/1 up against Serbia 50/1, Australia 125/1 and Ghana 66/1, currently the in-form team in Africa.

Reigning champions Italy 11/1 are in Group F with Paraguay 40/1, New Zealand 750/1 and Slovakia 150/1 - and rivalling England 11/2 for the easiest-looking task in the first phase.

It is Spain 4/1 however who have been installed as the bookies' favourites ahead of England - Brazil have dropped to third - and should comfortably qualify for the knock-out stages against Switzerland 125/1, Honduras 500/1 and Chile 50/1 in Group H.

In past tournaments Argentina 9/1 may have been confident to get past Nigeria 100/1, South Korea 200/1 and Greece 150/1 in Group B, but their trials and tribulations under the management of Diego Maradona makes that no longer a dead cert.

Holland 14/1 are favourites to win Group E, but there should be an interesting tussle between Cameroon 80/1, Denmark 80/1 and Japan 200/1 for the second spot.

South Africa 2010 with Boylesports.com

 
Who will score England’s first goal at the World Cup?
Rooney 3/1
Defoe 6/1
Crouch 8/1
Lampard 7/1
Beckham 14/1
Gerrard 7/1
Terry 16/1


How many goals will England score in the three group games?
None-Two 13/2 
Three-Five 11/8
Six-Eight 11/8
Nine-Eleven 5/1
Twelve or more 20/1


When will England first concede?
v USA EVS
v Algeria 10/3
v Slovenia 9/2
Last 16 or later 4/1


How many of Capello’s 23-man squad will have been used before knockout stages?  (Players must take the field of play to count) 
11-13  6/1
14-16  4/5
17-19  11/8
20-22  33/1
All 23  250/1

 
Beckham Specials:
Beckham to score against USA 5/1
Beckham to be sent off against USA 50/1
USA player to be sent off for challenge on Beckham 66/1

 
England Specials:
England to win all possible seven games at World Cup (within 90mins) 125/1 
Any side to win tournament having won all seven games (within 90mins) 14/1
England to lose the World Cup final on penalties 33/1 
John Terry to miss the penalty in World Cup final that knocks England out 22/1 (must take last england penalty and miss)
England to meet Germany in the second round 7/4
England to meet Germany in the final  25/1


How many of the eight  group seeds will win their group?
Four or Less EVS
Five 2/1
Six 3/1
Seven 8/1
Eight 105 /1


What will be the most number of goals scored by any team in a game?
Four or less 7/2
Five 2/1
Six 2/1
Seven 11/2
Eight or more 6/1

 
What will be the most number of goals scored by an individual player in any game?
One 66/1
Two 10/11
Three 11/10
Four 9/1
Five or more 33/1

 

How many goals will the Golden Boot winner score?
Five or less 7/2
Six 6/4
Seven 12/5
Eight 5/1
Nine or more 8/1 


How many games will go to penalties (maximum 16)?
None-Two 8/5
Three-Five  6/5

World Cup 2010 - Group Betting

GROUP A
France 10/11
Mexico 3/1
Uruguay 7/2
South Africa 7/1


GROUP B
Argentina 8/11
Nigeria 9/4
Greece 6/1
South Korea 9/1


GROUP C
England 1/3
U.S.A. 4/1
Slovenia 9/1
Algeria 12/1


GROUP D

Germany 8/11

Serbia 10/3

Ghana 9/2

Australia 13/2

GROUP E

Holland 8/13

Denmark 7/2

Cameroon  9/2

Japan 9/1

GROUP F

Italy 3/10

Paraguay 4/1

Slovakia 6/1

New Zealand 66/1

GROUP G

Brazil 4/7

Portugal 11/4

Ivory Coast 4/1

North Korea 50/1

GROUP H

Spain 1/4

Chile 5/1

Switzerland 8/1

Honduras 20/1

Terry targets historic performance

England (1/3) captain John Terry believes the side "can make history" after they were handed a winnable group in yesterday's World Cup draw.

England will face the USA (4/1), Algeria (12/1) and Slovenia (9/1) in Group C in next year's competition in South Africa which should see the Three Lions qualify for the knockout stage.

Terry told The Sun: "We can make history. We've missed the obvious big teams but everyone has earned their right to be there and we can't be complacent.

"We didn't want to end up in a group of death - and when you look at the Germany and Brazil groups it could have been much worse."

Steven Gerrard echoed Terry's relief at avoiding big names such as France and Portugal.

He told the Daily Mirror: "What I didn't want was to come up against the unknown and we have avoided that and we have avoided some of the really hard groups - like the one Brazil find themselves in.

"We have played two of the sides in our group under Fabio Capello - and beaten them.

"So we know what to expect and we know what we have to do to beat them."

World Cup Draw 2010 - Outright Betting

World Cup Betting Outrights

Spain 4/1
Brazil 11/2
England 11/2
Argentina 9/1
Italy 11/1
Germany 12/1
France 12/1
Holland 14/1
Portugal 25/1
Ivory Coast 28/1
Paraguay 40/1
Serbia 50/1
Chile 50/1
USA 50/1
Ghana 66/1
Mexico 66/1
Cameroon 80/1
Denmark 80/1
Uruguay 80/1
Nigeria 100/1
South Africa 100/1
Australia 125/1
Switzerland 125/1
Greece 150/1
Slovakia 150/1
Slovenia 150/1
Japan 200/1
South Korea 200/1
Algeria 250/1
Honduras 500/1
New Zealand 750/1
North Korea 1000/1

Capello relishing 'hardest test'

Fabio Capello admits the World Cup will be his hardest test as a manager but is already tasting the excitement of the tournament.

Capello's England go into Friday night's draw as one of the eight top seeds but the Italian insists he is unconcerned about who will end up in their group. England are guaranteed to avoid the powerhouses of world football such as bookies' favourites Brazil, holders Italy and European champions Spain.

"It's new for me. As a player it was different, because you think for you, now you have to think of more things, decide more things, check more things. The next five months will be really important to decide everything," said Capello.

"For me it's the first time I've breathed this atmosphere of the World Cup, the sensation. I can taste it. The airport, the people, the FIFA World Cup, Bafana Bafana, it's exciting.

"It will be a great test, the hardest test of me as a manager."

Capello insists Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has plenty of time to shake off his nagging back problem.

"It's not a worry if he's not fit even in January," said Capello. "An Italian example is Alessandro Nesta who was injured for one year, now he's the best, and people are saying please come back into the national team.

"I cannot say he will be fit or not but I hope so - I hope the best England players will be fit."

World Cup 2010 Stadiums

France cry foul

France were today coming to terms with a double whammy after learning Thierry Henry could be banned for the start of the World Cup finals - and the country will not be seeded for the draw.

FIFA denied France were being punished for Henry's infamous handball in the play-off against the Republic of Ireland, saying the seedings based on October's world rankings represented the best teams in the world.

Henry could pick up a ban that would affect the start of next summer's finals after FIFA announced their disciplinary committee had opened proceedings against him for the handball.

Former France coach Michel Hidalgo claimed: "It is an injustice. I wonder if we do not pay for the hand of Thierry Henry."

But FIFA general secretary Jerome Valcke - himself French - insisted there had been no agenda against Les Bleus.

Valcke said: "France qualified after additional matches and were not even first in their group. Why should playing more matches and gaining more points kick out England, who qualified with a good campaign? We used purely sporting criteria. France-Ireland was never part of the discussions."

The handball incident was the main subject of an emergency meeting of the FIFA executive committee in Cape Town today.

However, the body rejected a proposal - brought in response to the handball - to fast-track the experimental system of having five officials on the pitch, with two extra assistant referees behind each goal-line, for the World Cup.

England seeded for World Cup

England have been named as one of the eight top seeds for next summer's World Cup but France miss out.

FIFA's World Cup organising committee announced the seeds on Wednesday based on October's FIFA world rankings.

The host country South Africa plus Brazil, Spain, Holland, Italy, Germany and Argentina were named as the other seeds.

There will be four pots in the draw - one containing the top seeds, pot two with countries from Asia, Oceania and north/central America, the third pot with the five other African nations and three South American countries, and a fourth pot containing the other eight European countries.

A worst-case scenario would see England drawn in a group with France or Portugal from the European pot, an Ivory Coast side boasting Didier Drogba and the USA, beaten finalists in the Confederations Cup last summer.

The best scenario would see England take on Slovenia, Algeria and North Korea.

Pot 1 (seeds) South Africa, Brazil, Spain, Holland, Italy, Germany, Argentina, England.

Pot 2 (Asia, Oceania and North/Central America) Japan, South Korea, North Korea, Australia, New Zealand, USA, Mexico, Honduras.

Pot 3 (Africa and South America) Ivory Coa, Ghana, Cameroon, Nigeria, Algeria, Paraguay, Chile, Uruguay.

Pot 4 (Europe) France, Portugal, Slovenia, Switzerland, Greece, Serbia, Denmark, Slovakia.

World Cup 2010 Odds

Brady brands Blatter 'an embarrassment'

Republic of Ireland assistant manager Liam Brady claimed Sepp Blatter has become a "loose cannon" and "an embarrassment to FIFA".

The Republic were beaten by France in their play-off by a goal which should have been disallowed due to Thierry Henry's handball and FIFA president Blatter this week revealed that the Republic were bidding to be installed as a 33rd team at the World Cup.

Brady claimed the Football Association of Ireland, having already had calls for a replay rejected, had expected FIFA to consider the '33rd team' request in private, rather than go public with it, and he expressed dismay at the way Blatter has dealt with the saga since Giovanni Trapattoni's side were cruelly knocked out.

"He's a bit of a loose cannon. He's an embarrassment to FIFA," Brady told Sky Sports News.

Explaining the decision to approach FIFA and ask to be included in the World Cup draw, Brady revealed the FAI knew the request was likely to be dismissed.

He said: "I think when we asked for that we knew there was very little chance of that happening. We asked because we wanted to have them respond in a measured way, and see what they had to say.

"After all Mr Blatter was responsible for the (match) official. He didn't say anything about the appalling mistake the official made to miss a blatant handball."

The former Republic midfielder was shocked when Blatter told a news conference that the FAI's appeal had been lodged with FIFA.

"I'm afraid Mr Blatter is a law unto himself," Brady said. "I thought it was very disrespectful how he presented this fact.

"He's currently ignored most of the controversial things that went on that evening. He never had anything to say about that at all, like Henry's behaviour after scoring the goal and how that stands within his campaign to have fair play within the game."

World Cup Betting at www.boylesports.com

Kalou wants to face England

Chelsea striker Salomon Kalou hopes the Ivory Coast find themselves in the same group as England in Friday's World Cup draw.

Kalou, along with prolific club and country team-mate Didier Drogba, will spearhead the African nation's challenge in South Africa next summer.

The 24-year-old would like to face Chelsea team-mates John Terry, Frank Lampard and Ashley Cole and believes England are capable of winning the World Cup. "I've talked about drawing England with Didier and we agreed it would be nice to play them. They are a top team," said Kalou, speaking at the SCORE4africa awards.

"I think England can win the World Cup because they have good players. They can make an impact.

"England are playing better now. They have a coach in Fabio Capello who is very hard on the players.

"The coach makes them respect everything and you need that sometimes in football because it's the little things that make the difference.

"It would be good to play against Cole, Lampard and Terry. It would be a little bit weird to play against them, but that's football."

Cannavaro in plea to retired duo

Italy skipper Fabio Cannavaro has urged Francesco Totti and Alessandro Nesta to come out of international retirement to boost the Azzurri's hopes of retaining their World Cup title next summer.

Neither Roma captain Totti nor veteran AC Milan defender Nesta have played for Italy since the country's success at Germany 2006 but Cannavaro believes their experience could be vital in South Africa.

"I have talked with Francesco and also Alessandro. We were fortunate to experience Berlin together and we have a strong bond," said Cannavaro.

"I am always trying to make them rethink, even if it was their decision and that should be respected."

Nesta is unlikely to reconsider but Totti has indicated he would discuss the matter with Italy boss Marcello Lippi ahead of the finals.

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FIFA set to approve 'Five Referees' plan

FIFA are tomorrow expected to finally dash the Republic of Ireland's hopes of playing in the World Cup but to approve Michel Platini's masterplan of having five referees at every match of next summer's finals.

An emergency meeting of FIFA's executive committee in Cape Town, called in response to the Republic's play-off defeat courtesy of Thierry Henry's handball, is set to fast-track the system of having an extra referee behind each goal-line.

Irish hopes of succeeding in a bid to be named as a 33rd team in the finals look forlorn however as FIFA insiders believe such a move would set a dangerous precedent.

Instead, FIFA are set to put their faith in the five-referees system being trialled in this season's Europa League.

The proposal would then go to the International FA Board (IFAB) - the game's rule-making body - for a vote but it would almost certainly be passed.

One FIFA executive committee member told Press Association Sport: "The mood is that something has to be done and the easiest solution is to bring in the extra assistant referees."

The Football Association of Ireland had officially requested they be included in the World Cup as a 33rd country but FIFA president Sepp Blatter has set the tone for tomorrow's meeting by saying they would "also have to bring in Costa Rica" who were denied a place in South Africa by an offside goal scored by Uruguay in their play-off.

Adding additional teams would also thrown Friday's final draw into complete chaos as it would affect the whole structure of the tournament.

There have been suggestions that Henry may face disciplinary action from the executive committee for his handball in the build-up to William Gallas decisive goal. That cannot be ruled out but there is no precedent for such an action.

The proposal to send the five-referees system to the IFAB meeting in Zurich in March will be far less controversial. The IFAB is made up of the four home associations, who each have a vote, and FIFA who have four votes. Any proposal needs six out of eight votes to be carried.

Scottish FA chief executive Gordon Smith has already revealed to Press Association Sport that he would look kindly on the five-referees plan, and England are also nailed on to back FIFA and UEFA because they will not want to upset them in the year of their bid for the 2018 World Cup.

FAI asked for extra World Cup place

FIFA president Sepp Blatter has claimed the Football Association of Ireland asked to be included in the World Cup finals as an extra team following the Republic of Ireland's controversial play-off exit to France.

England World Cup Top Goalscorer

Who Will Be England's Top Goalscorer During The World Cup Finals? Dead Heat Rules Apply. All Bets Stand Regardless Of Participation In The Tournament

Rooney, Wayne     11/4
Gerrard, Steven     6/1
Lampard, Frank     6/1
Defoe, Jermain     7/1
Crouch, Peter     8/1
Bent, Darren     12/1
Owen, Michael     16/1
Heskey, Emile     16/1
Walcott, Theo     16/1
Lennon, Aaron     25/1
Cole, Carlton     25/1
Terry, John     25/1
Barry, Gareth     25/1
Cole, Joe     28/1
Beckham, David     33/1
Young, Ashley     33/1
Milner, James     40/1
Carrick, Michael     40/1
Wright-Phillips, Shaun     50/1
Agbonlahor, Gabriel     66/1
Cole, Ashley     66/1
Ferdinand, Rio     66/1
Johnson, Glen     66/1
Downing, Stewart     66/1
Wilshire, Jack     80/1
Jenas, Jermaine     100/1
Welbeck, Danny     100/1
Lescott, Jolean     100/1
Richards, Micah     150/1
Parker, Scott     150/1
Jagielka, Phil     150/1
Neville, Gary     200/1
Bridge, Wayne     200/1
King, Ledley     200/1
Brown, Wes     200/1
Huddlestone, Tom     250/1
Upson, Matthew     500/1
Bullard, Jimmy     500/1

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World Cup England Stage Of Elimination Betting

World Cup 2010 - Stage Of Elimination - England Stage Of Elimination

Group Stage 11/2
Second Round 16/5
Quarter Final 11/4
Semi Final 7/2
Runner Up 11/2
Winner 13/2

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Great World Cup Goals

BECKHAM AND BLATTER POISED FOR MEETING

David Beckham was due to meet FIFA president Sepp Blatter today to push England's bid for the 2018 World Cup. The England midfielder and Football Association chairman Lord Triesman were meeting Blatter in Cape Town ahead of Friday's draw.

Beckham will visit a township tomorrow before taking part in the bidding countries Expo event on Friday morning.

He is also one of the football celebrities taking part in the final draw on Friday night.

Blatter said yesterday that England had to use Beckham as the most public face of their campaign.

"This guy is a good guy, let me tell you," said the FIFA president.

"I've been working in FIFA for 35 years and I know a good guy for big days. He is one of the most important figures in football. He has a personal charisma that very few players have. He's a great man.

"If they didn't use him they are not very intelligent. They have to use him for everything forever."

Blatter said Beckham's presence at the draw was also important for the game.

He added: "It's good that Beckham helps with the draw. Beckham is the best ambassador for fair play in football. He's a good guy. He's perhaps not the best player in the world but he is a good guy."

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Martinez questions Spanish mentality

Spain could crack under the mental pressure of expectation at next year's World Cup finals in South Africa.

That is the view of Wigan's Spanish-born manager Roberto Martinez ahead of tomorrow's draw in Cape Town.

As reigning European champions and as the new world number one team in the FIFA rankings, Spain are rightly being lauded as potential winners.

However, Spain's World Cup record is appalling, earning them the reputation of underachievers as they have never progressed beyond the quarter-finals since finishing fourth in 1950.

Assessing the tournament, Martinez said: "I feel the World Cup is more open than people think.

"First and foremost I'm looking at teams that haven't been given much respect like Serbia and Slovakia, who had great qualifying campaigns.

"You look at the African teams playing in South Africa, who will have a little extra boost, a little extra confidence, a little bit of a feel that they're playing at home.

"Then you look at Brazil and Argentina, the latter I believe has the best squad of players in world football, but as a team they have not clicked yet."

Looking at his fellow countrymen, who enjoyed a perfect qualifying tournament in winning all 10 games, Martinez added: "I believe the expectations are going to put us under massive, massive pressure.

"Yes, we've a great formula football-wise, they're different to anyone else, and we've very talented players.

"But it's the first time they're going to the World Cup with the favourites label attached to them, and mentally that is going to be very, very tough to handle."