ENGLAND'S
GROUP - 'THE GROUP OF FEAR'
Group F
ENGLAND ~not since 1970, as defending champions and drawn against
BRAZIL have ENGLAND faced such formidable opponents. England, however,
have two outstanding players in captain David Beckham and European
Football of the Year Michael Owen. Having played ARGENTINA 12 times,
drawing 6 and winning 4, let's keep our fingers crossed!
Odds 10-1
England's final 23-man
team list
ARGENTINA ~ Favourites to win the 2002 competition, having
already won the World Youth Cup with their under 21 side. An excellent
attacking team with Manchester United's Juan Veron in midfield and
choice of Batistuta and Crespo from Italy's Serie.A. up front, both
top class strikers. They seem worthy favourites.
Odds 4-1
SWEDEN
~ England manager Eriksson's home country and England's first
game of the competition. Strong defensive team with key figure of
Patrik Andersson of Barcelona at the back and super striker Henrik
Larsson of Celtic who scored 54 goals last season up front. They qualified
with an unbeaten record from a tricky group.
Odds 66-1
NIGERIA
~ Long been seen as the most likely team to take the World Cup
to Africa with quality players spread across the major European leagues.
Danger man Victor Agali 6ft 3in is the centre forward who scored for
German side Schalke against Arsenal in the Champions' League, a real
handful. Will be partnered by Arsenal's Kanu up front.
Odds 50-1
(Odds - based on average bookmaker odds available prior to start of
Finals)
