During the 2002 World Cup in South Korea and Japan, several unexpected teams performed well. We remember South Korea, Turkey, and Senegal, but it’s worth recalling the good run of the United States, defeated only in the quarterfinals by eventual finalist Germany (1-0), after having eliminated Mexico 2-0 in the round of 16 and having topped Portugal and Poland during the group stage.
Four years later, the United States seemed even stronger. They had no trouble competing with Mexico. The Soccerboys combined physicality and agility. Two players who embody these characteristics are Landon Donovan and Brian McBride. Donovan, still quite young at 24, had made a name for himself in 2002. He is fast, skilled, and constantly challenges his opponents. With already 80 appearances, he was keen to prove his worth in Germany, a country where he had struggled to make an impact while playing for Bayer Leverkusen. Brian McBride, at 33, is an experienced veteran. He is the opposite of Donovan; athletic, with heading being his main strength. He plays for Fulham in the Premier League where over the seasons he has established himself as an indispensable starter. This year, he played 37 matches (the most utilized player) and scored nine goals.
The United States had the capacity to challenge the major nations. They were a very enjoyable team to watch and one to keep an eye on.
Ghana was once known for Abedi Pele. Today, it’s Michael Essien. The Chelsea midfielder and best L1 player of 2005 is the leader of this surprise guest team at the German World Cup. To qualify, the Ghanaians finished first, ahead of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, South Africa, and Burkina Faso, three major African football nations. This proves that Ghana’s strength is not solely in Essien. Good players will surround the former Lyon player, like Dortmund striker Matthew Amoah, former midfielder for the same German team Otto Addo now at Mainz, Stephen Appiah, defensive midfielder and Ghana captain who is a teammate of Nicolas Anelka at Fenerbahce. Samuel Kuffour, a defender from AS Roma, and Rennais player John Mensah will form the Ghanaian defense. Thus, examining the squad of this African nation, it is clear that they are here by no fluke. They could create a surprise.
Italy and the Czech Republic must be cautious. A lack of humility, a bit of nonchalance and complacency could trouble these two strong European football nations. The Czech Republic, led by Pavel Nedved, was at its peak two years ago at the European Championships where it was the favorite. However, like the French, the Czechs were defeated by the Greeks in the semifinal of the competition. This team may seem aging with players who have been seen for a long time in major teams—Galasek, Koller, Ufjalusi, Poborsky… On paper, with players like Petr Cech, the Chelsea goalkeeper, Nedved and Rosicky in midfield, Baros and Koller in attack, the Czech Republic is a serious contender for the ultimate title.
The Azzurri squad, too, on paper is impressive: Buffon, Del Piero, Gattuso, Cannavaro, Nesta, Inzaghi, the rising star Toni, Zambrotta, Gilardino, Pirlo. The question revolves around Francesco Totti. Injured since February with a fibula fracture, the Italian strategist only resumed playing on May 11. Even if physically recovered, questions linger about his fitness at the start of the World Cup. The selection of the Italian team should allow Marcello Lippi to spare Francesco Totti.
Both the Italians and Czechs are favorites of this group. However, their opponents possess undeniable strengths, especially in practicing a style of football different from the tactical stereotypes usual of the old continent. The Czechs and Italians must be attentive, serious, focused, and above all, practical to avoid any unpleasant surprises. Otherwise, the final Italy-Czech Republic match on June 22 will be decisive. Misfortune to the loser, but for the sport, it would be wonderful to have a match with such stakes!
The prediction from Nice-Première:
1-Italy
2-Republic of Czech
3-United States
4-Ghana
Group E schedule:
June 12 in Hanover: Italy – Ghana (9 PM)
June 12 in Gelsenkirchen: Czech Republic – United States (6 PM)
June 17 in Kaiserslautern: Italy – United States (9 PM)
June 17 in Cologne: Czech Republic – Ghana (6 PM)
June 22 in Hamburg: Italy – Czech Republic (4 PM)
June 22 in Nuremberg: Ghana – United States (4 PM)
