Olympic Soccer - Groups Drawn

Groups have been drawn for the upcoming Beijing Olympics and young stars from all around the world are gearing up for a run at a medal next month in China.

Group A -
Ivory Coast
Argentina
Australia
Serbia

One of the tournament favorites, Argentina, got a good draw and should cruise through Group A.  The Ivory Coast will provide some challenges and certainly don't count out the Serbs, but neither should have the firepower Argentina will throw on the pitch led by Barcelona star Lionel Messi.

Group B -
Holland
Japan
Nigeria
USA

A very very challenging group.  Any of the four sides are capable of advancing from the group.  The US will face a stiff challenge as most of the overage American options will be unavailable to take part in the Olympics.  Holland has to be group favorites, but Nigeria's athleticism and Japan's fitness and workrate will pose definite problems for the Americans.

Group C -
China
Brazil
Belgium
New Zealand

Brazil was lucky to have been drawn into what is probably the weakest of the four groups.  The Brazilians are loading up for a gold medal as Ronaldinho and Robinho are expected to be in the squad.  The real question is who will join Brazil advancing.  Can host side China ride the Olympic wave and grab a quarterfinal berth?

Group D -
Korea Republic
Italy
Cameroon
Honduras

Italy wil be clear favorites in Group D and look to be the main compeition in the tournament to Brazil and Argentina.  Don't count out Cameroon who could be one of the surprises of the tournament.