Top Bet’s comprehensive coverage of the upcoming 2014 World Cup has already covered host Brazil’s Group A, defending champion Spain’s Group B and up-and-coming Colombia’s Group C. Now, we preview what could be the tournament’s most competitive group: Group D. Also, see our comprehensive World Cup predictions.
The only World Cup group to feature not one, not two, but three former champions, the “D” in Group D probably stands for “Death“. For one country out of Italy, Uruguay and England, the group stage will unfortunately be a dead-end in their World Cup journey. Costa Rica likely doesn’t stand a chance against these football giants, but could make an already difficult life that little bit harder.
Set up a betting account today and read on to see which two countries stand the best chance of surviving this terrifyingly tough group to keep their World Cup dreams alive.
[sc:Soccer ]World Cup Group D Preview
Italy
Four-time winners Italy are +165 to emerge winners of this very competitive group, and +1,500 to become just the second country ever to win five World Cups. Head coach Cesare Prandelli can call upon a very experienced squad which includes 2006 World Cup winning veterans Gianluigi Buffon, Daniele De Rossi and midfield maestro Andrea Pirlo.
[sc:Soccer240banner ]Defense is hardly an issue for the Italians, but offense could be a problem for them in Brazil. Mario Balotelli shined in his first major tournament at Euro 2012, and the 23-year old will be tasked to lead the frontline once again.
For more on the Azzurri, one of the most dynamic teams in the tournament’s field, check out our comprehensive Italy World Cup preview.
Uruguay
The last team to book its ticket to Brazil, Uruguay is also priced at +2,500 to be the last team standing at the World Cup. The Uruguayans, who finished 4th in both the 2010 World Cup and in last year’s Confederations Cup, are +175 favorites to win Group D.
But their hopes of winning a second world title in Brazilian soil hang in the balance after Luis Suarez’s knee surgery has put his participation in doubt. With his skill and versatility upfront, the Liverpool striker remains so crucial in Coach Oscar Tabarez’s offensive system. While Suarez himself has texted his Liverpool teammates saying he will have recovered in time for Uruguay’s crucial game against England, the truth will be known come game time.
A front line of Edinson Cavani and Diego Forlan could still cause many defenses headaches, but the prolific Suarez (+1,200 to be the tournament’s top scorer) transforms Uruguay from very good to a legitimate contender.
England
England is +3,300 to win its first world title since 1966 with its second-youngest World Cup squad ever, but first it’ll have to overcome either Italy or Uruguay to even escape its group. The Three Lions are +225 to top Group D.
Veterans Steven Gerrard and Wayne Rooney will be tasked to lead their inexperienced teammates to battle in Brazil. Rooney will have the added burden of finally living up to his potential in an international tournament, while skipper Gerrard will need to protect an inexperienced backline against some tough opponents, one of which being his Uruguayan Liverpool teammate, Suarez.
For more on the Three Lions, check out our comprehensive England World Cup preview.
Costa Rica
Minnows Costa Rica have the longest odds to win the World Cup at +100,000, but after an impressive qualifying campaign that saw them finish above Mexico, they may not be the pushovers that England, Italy and Uruguay might expect.
Head coach Jorge Luis Pinto has constructed a solid and defensively sound unit that conceded the least goals during CONCACAF qualifying. While main attacking threats Bryan Ruiz and Joel Campbell may be found wanting in the very top level, the Costa Ricans may frustrate England and Italy, whose offenses have question marks.
Key Game – Italy vs. England (June 13)
The young Lions will be given a baptism of fire when they face the experienced Italy in their first World Cup game on June 13. The two countries are no strangers to one another after meeting in the quarterfinals of Euro 2012; Italy emerged victorious on penalties.
This meeting will be equally important given that neither team wants to immediately lose ground to Uruguay, who have a much easier opening game.
Writer’s Prediction
Pencil in the Italians for one of the two slots. The other place will hinge on the health of Luis Suarez. A fit and effective Suarez means Uruguay qualify safely and could top the group. An ailing Suarez gives young England a glimmer of hope. The most likely scenario could be the former, so expect Italy and Uruguay (+105) to go through.
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