World Cup Preview - Groups A - D

It is less than a week away.  The one month that comes every four years that fans across the globe yearn for.  The World Cup kicks off on Friday in South Africa and here is the Soccermogul preview for World Cup groups A through D. 

Group A -
One of the most intriguing groups for sure.  An aging and sagging France, the hosts South Africa with their wild fans, an unpredictable Mexico squad and a quality Uruguay make Group A must watch soccer.  Every game in this group will be up for grabs.  Can Franck Ribery push his France squad forward after barely qualifying thanks to a missed handball and a run of poor warmups?  Can Mexico build off their impressive win over Italy last week?  No team has played a more challenging warmup schedule than Mexico.  Uruguay is a relative unknown on the world scene playing in its first World Cup in twenty years, but they have rolled through their warmup games and could make noise in this grouping.  Then there are the hosts South Africa.  Passionate crowds will follow them at every match.  No host has ever been eliminated in the opening round, but this year will probably be the first.  Look for Uruguay and Mexico to survive group play while France crashes out.

Group B -
A suddenly in form Argentina looks ready to navigate one of the easier groups.  Maradona has Argentina playing well and instead of all the questionmarks from last year, Argentina looks a threat to make a deep run in the tourney.   Greece is a wildcard.  Known for a tremendous defense they could sneak out of group if they can find a few goals.  Nigeria is a favorite to cause trouble in the group and possibly make a run if they can overcome traditional leadership problems.  They should be able to earn advancement.  South Korea can be tricky with their speed and fitness, but the talent and athleticism of Nigeria and Argentina should win out.

Group C -
Both the US and England sighed relief when the groups were drawn as they felt they could navigate a group with minnows Algeria and Slovenia.  England should have little trouble with their talent and pedigree, but the US cannot lose focus or risk getting nipped by one of the little fellas.  England has some injury concerns and the lack of a proven goaltender, but should score plenty of goals.  The Americans have defensive issues, but could be dangerous if Edson Buddle holds his recent form up top.  The opening game between Algeria and Slovenia is of utmost importance as it is basically an elimination game.  The winner can dream of pulling an upset and grabbing advancement, while the loser has nothing more to look forward to than England and the USA.  One of the most hyped games of the opening round will be played next Saturday when England and the US square off.

Group D -
This group is fascinating with Germany clear favorites.  After that it is anybodys game.  Australia will have to find some goals with no dominant striker.  They usually have a stingy defense, even though they leaked three against the US yesterday.  Ghana will be very dangerous, but the loss of star Michael Essien to injury opens the door to questions.  Certainly don't overlook Serbia has a wonderful defense led by Manchester United's Vidic and could easily grab advancement.  Even with German injuries to Ballack and four others, Germany should have enough class to win this group.

Come back soon for the World Cup preview of groups E through H.