World Cup Previews: Last Seconds!!

Since I'm leaving for South Africa in 3 hours, I am going to do a very brief prediction for Groups C-H.

Group C:

Algeria are the biggest threat to the US advancing. Look for the US to spring a surprise in the first game and pick up a point, then have England cruise past Algeria and Slovenia. The US will go into the final game with Algeria needing a point and hang on to get it.

Group D:

Looked like the Group of Death, but with Essien and Ballack gone, it doesn't look nearly as intimidating. Ghana will not be able to overcome the absence of Essien (though I'd certainly love to see it) nor will Australia be able to handle the strength of the other three.

Serbia is my pick for surprise of the tournament as they boast arguably the stingiest back line with Ivanovic, Vidic and Subotic at the helm. Just don't let them shoot on the Stojakovic!

Ironically, this group features the 3rd and 4th string goalies for Wigan Athletic, now that certainly doesn't sound right.

Germany are struggling, but should get out of the group. Look for Serbia to surprise and pip the Germans for top spot.

Group E

Holland should cruise to the top here, with Japan listed as rank outsiders. It should come down to Cameroon and Denmark with the crunch tie at Loftus being the decider. Look for the Lions to scrape through on Goal Difference.

Group F

The weakest group of the lot, with a straight-up old Italian side, a jaded Paraguayan team, the worst team in the tournament in the shape of the Kiwis and a Slovakian side that advanced out of the softest group in qualifying.

Italy struggle in the other groups, but landed a peach here. It should be between Paraguay and Slovakia for 2nd spot, but give the edge to Paraguay here, though Hamsek will be a star for Slovakia.

Group G

It all lies with Drogba. If he's healthy, Ivory Coast will give the big two all they can handle. Do not for a second assume that Brazil is safe here, it may bring a gasp or two, but they could get dumped out early here.

North Korea will get beaten, but not as badly as some might expect. Look for Brazil to push through with Portugal, unless Drogba's stars are aligned and he makes a shock comeback.

Group H

Spain should and will run the table here. Honduras just don't seem to have enough in them to compete, while Switzerland will struggle to handle Chile's pace. Chile should advance out of this group in 2nd spot and could even nick a point of Spain.