2010 World Cup Group D Preview

Germany
Germany is arguably the most consistent soccer powerhouse in the world. While they haven't won any major tournament this decade, they have come close on several occasions. The Germans finished second at the 2002 World Cup, second at Euro 2008 and third at the 2006 World Cup. The Germans field one of the most experienced sides in the tournament and are without a doubt one of the favorites.

Players to watch for: Michael Ballack, Miroslav Klose and Lukas Podolski

Prediction: Although Group D is one of the stronger groups from top to bottom, it would be no surprise if Germany won all three group games to top the group. With the mix of solid defense and a world-class attack, Germany will make a deep run in the tournament.

Serbia
This is Serbia's first trip to the World Cup as its own nation separate from Yugoslavia. Serbia features a solid midfield anchored by Dejan Stankovic. Manchester United's Nemanja Vidic brings even more star presence to a Serbian side that is stronger than many will give them credit for.

Players to watch for: Nemanja Vidic, Dejan Stankovic and Milan Jovanovic

Prediction: While many of Serbia's players may not be names typically discussed in soccer circles, most of their roster plays in the top European leagues, which gives Serbia an advantage over Australia and Ghana. Look for Serbia to sneak out of the group behind Germany.

Australia
Australia made only their second World Cup appearance ever at the 2006 tournament and advanced out of their group. In their Round of 16 game vs. Italy, Australia pushed the Italian side into extra time before conceding a late goal. Australia won six, tied two and lost none of their qualifying matches. In those eight qualifiers, Australia allowed a single goal. While that is an impressive stat, their defense will face much stronger attacks than they did in Asian qualifying.

Players to watch for: Brett Emerton and Tim Cahill

Prediction: While Australia's push against Italy in 2006 was a great match to watch, this Australian side is not quite as strong as the 2006 squad. A loss in the opener against Germany would put the Australians in a must-win position in their last two games. They may earn one win in the group, but they will likely not have enough to advance.

Ghana
Ghana has one of the strongest midfields in the entire tournament with European club sensations Michael Essien, Sulley Muntari and Stephen Appiah all in the mix. Ghana finished as runner-up in this year's African Cup of Nations and are making their second consecutive (and second all-time) trip to the World Cup. While the strong midfield play makes Ghana a tough team to beat, it will be up to their defenders to step up for Ghana to advance.

Players to watch for: Michael Essien, Sulley Muntari and Stephen Appiah

Prediction: Ghana is a tough team to make a prediction on. While they played well in the African Cup of Nations, the team also struggled at times throughout 2009. If their trio of star midfielders are able to create some magic against Serbia, Ghana could be the second team to advance from the group.

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