Wednesday, June 9, 2010

Group B Preview

Overview:


Group B is definitely going to be a little more personal than the other groups with the inclusion of my beloved Greek national team. While, they may not be able to re-kindle the magic of 2004, trust me, when I tell you this I will be there watching every game, screaming at the top of my lungs, jumping up and down, and occasionally removing items of clothing as the clock ticks to 90, don't ask me to explain. So where to begin, let's just start at the top where Argentina should find themselves at the end of the group stage. Argentina has enough fire power with Messi, Aguero, Milito, Tevez and Di Maria to field two teams, however the problem with any Argentine team is discipline and defense, and I am not 100% sure Maradona will be able to control those emotions. As for the Nigerian Super Eagles, they recently placed Swedish manager Lars Lagerback in charge. Lagerback will organize the squad but this version of the Super Eagles is not as talented as previous editions and with the loss of John Obi Mikel through injury, things could get tough. South Korea does not have the star power of Argentina but do possess an organized team led by Park Ji-Sung, but it must be noted that they have yet to win a World Cup match outside of South Korea. The Greeks have been very disappointing in the near lead-up to the World Cup but with the doggedness of King Otto Rehhagel leading the charge perhaps another miracle is in order.

Players To Watch:

Argentina - Lionel Messi - Messi is arguably the best player in the world, and this is his opportunity to further illustrate that. Messi was phenomenal this last domestic campaign with Barcelona the only question is if he can replicate his form with Argentina. Maradona has built this version of the Argentine squad around Messi, so all the appropriate measures are in place for him to have a great tournament.

Nigeria - Peter Odemwingie - Born to a Russian mother and Nigeria father Odemwingie was probably the best player for Nigeria during the recent African Cup of Nations. Known as Osaze to the Nigerian faithful a strong World Cup will lead to a host of suitors for his services. Odemwingie has explosive pace and has a propensity to attack from the left.

Greece - Giorgos Karagounis - The current captain for the Greek national team supplies all the set pieces for 'The Pirate Ship.' He plays with unmatched tenacity and emotion, and should be the fulcrum for the Greek attacks. Karagounis also would not hesitate to get stuck into a tackle and could see his fare share of yellow cards.

South Korea - Park Ji-Sung - Park is the key member of the South Korean squad and he captains the national team. Although he is carrying an injury into the World Cup, Park will be looked as the key member for the squad. Furthermore, with a younger squad, the South Koreans will look to Park for leadership and his experiences in Europe with Manchester United.

Projected Order Of Finish:

Argentina
Greece
Nigeria
South Korea

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