Sports

Other than for England and Germany, there are also Italy, Argentina and Spain. Francesco Totti is one of the best at his craft. He could make a huge difference along with Alessandro Del Piero and Filippo Inzaghi. Argentina have a good all round team and are capable of causing an upset. Like England, Spain feels that this is their year.

By Harry Jayachandra

It’s the final countdown. And Europe has everything to do with it. The 2006 Football World Cup kicks off in Germany next Saturday. Holders Brazil once again go in as favourites. But this time around they are quite a few ready to lay siege to their crown. And it is these teams we are going to look at in detail.

Being hosts is a double edged sword at the best of times. Football fans in Germany will settle for nothing less than the crown. Attacking midfielder Michael Ballack literally carries the weight of a nation on his shoulders. His backup will be a strong defence which has been the hallmark of German sides over the last four decades. Unfortunately their goalkeeper Jens Lehman is noted for cynical fouls. Thus all the officials will be keeping a close eye on him.

France has promised a better showing than in 2002. But promises by footballers are akin to that of politicians. France has an inconsistent keeper, a reasonable defence, an unpredictable midfield and two of the best strikers in the World. If Thierry Henry and Djibril Cisse get good possession, then goals can almost be guaranteed. However, it is difficult to see France winning the cup unless Fabien Barthez plays like he did in 1998 and midfield icon Patrick Viera can control his temper as well as win the ball.

Fourty years ago England led by Bobby Charlton recorded their first and only World Cup triumph. If the Brits play to their potential, a second triumph is far from impossible. How many defenders can claim to have successfully marked a 6 foot 7 inch striker? The answer would be almost none. Peter Crouch is not a prolific goal scorer. But he can hold the ball for the likes of Michael Owen, Steven Gerrad and co – to score the spectacular. If Wayne Rooney can get fit in time at least for the second round – then look out for England. Paul Robinson has had a fantastic season. England have a good defence and arguably the best midfield line up in the world. David Beckham, Gerrard, Frank Lampard and Joe Cole are at their peak. Thus even if the strikers fail; the midfield can certainly hit the back of the net.

One can also expect a few upsets from teams like Mexico, Nigeria and co. So expect the unexpected, but await some fantastic footie come Saturday.