England arrive in the Rainbow Nation as third favourites to win the tournament, after an extremely strong qualifying phase. Pundits credit England’s revival largely to wise Italian coach Capello, who picked up the pieces from the shambolic Steve McClaren reign and transformed England into an extremely competent side.
Whereas in years past talents like Wayne Rooney, Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard were flattering to deceive on the international stage, Capello has got his big players firing once again. Known to be a strict disciplinarian, Capello has secured the respect and the obedience of the supposed egos in the England dressing room and, by doing so, has forged a team that is extremely difficult to beat.
But what hope do the Three Lions actually have in South Africa? Will it all end in penalty heartbreak once again, leaving a nation of beleaguered and disappointed fans? Let’s face it: no matter how good a side we may appear to be, England have a dreadful record in big tournaments. One thing Capello must be wary of is England’s tendency to choke at the big moments or to lose their self belief. If he can keep the player’s heads right, England could go far.
Historically, England tend to struggle through their group stage but with an opening three fixtures of USA, Algeria and Slovenia, things could and should be relatively smooth sailing. The second round appears to be negotiable, too. But it’s in the quarter finals where the path becomes rockier. France appear to be the likely opposition, if all goes as expected, and whilst Capello’s men shouldn’t fear them, they will provide an extremely stern test of England’s credentials. And it doesn’t get any easier, either, with the likes of Brazil, Spain and Holland all possibly in England’s way.
But, if England want to win the World Cup, they’ll have to find a way to beat the best teams. The form of Rooney is likely to be key. England’s talisman has been in outstanding form this season and is scoring goals for fun. The continuing threat of injury lurks over him like a bad smell but a fit and firing Rooney will make England lethal. He’ll need support, also, and senior players such as Lampard and Gerrard will need to stand up and be counted. Capello’s squad also has a youthful exuberance to it and Tottenham starlet Aaron Lennon could make a big difference down the right wing if selected.
Who are the players to fear? There’s a fair few lying around . Brazil’s world class playmaker Kaka represents a giant thorn in many team’s side with his all round ability, as does Argentina’s Leo Messi, recently crowned World Player of the Year. Spain possess a couple of deadly strikers in Fernando Torres and David Villa and don’t forget Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo either, a player who spent the last few years making Premier League defenders look daft. There are some dark horses who could also give England a few sleepless nights. Didier Drogba will ensure Ivory Coast are an tremendously dangerous outfit while Landon Donovan and Clint Dempsey, no strangers to English football, will relish coming up against the Three Lions in their first game.
Success or not, the World Cup promises to be a wonderful time for English fans as St Georges flags are proudly flown and patriotic fervour is at its highest. And, with a little bit of luck, it could just be our year. England have the right coach, the right players and the right attitude. What could possibly go wrong? Hold on to your seats.
(Chessington Chat, 2010)
