World Cup 2010 Group a Preview

Group A is an interesting group to follow this World Cup. At first glance it might seem to be one of the weaker groups in the tournament, but a closer look reveals some interesting match ups to consider. The group is made up of France, Uruguay, Mexico and hosts South Africa.

France

Consistently one of the best national teams in the World, France is the favorite to win group A. The 1998 World Champions have a history of under performing in the World Cup, which has led to several disappointing early exits as well as a string of failures to qualify for the World Cup tournament. Still, the 10^th best team in the world according to the current FIFA rankings is expected to move on from this group.

Players to watch for on the French team includes super veteran Thierry Henry, as well as the Chelsea duo Nicolas Anelka and Florent Malouda. Franck Ribery aslo ended the domestic season in excellent form and will likely be a key figure in the French midfield. Thierry Henry needs no introduction to football fans. With over 120 caps for France and 51 career goals he is the most merited French player.

Uruguay

Two times World Champions Uruguay is an outsider in this group. Routinely overshadowed by more famous South American neighbors Uruguay has had unprecedented success with their national team. The smallest country ever to win a World Cup they have not been able to replicate that success in recent years though they continue to be very competitive in the South American championships.

The Uruguayan squad is fairly young and inexperienced, consisting of many players from second tier European leagues. They will need to rely on Diego Forlan to provide leadership and goals. Forlan has been in great form for Atletico Madrid and will need to continue his great play in the World Cup. If Forlan comes around and their young squad manage to play up to their potential they have an excellent chance of moving on to the second stage.

Mexico

Typically hard to place, Mexico is a second tier team in South America, comparable in strength to group rivals Uruguay. Mexico has a devoted followers, but falls into a category of countries that seem to be perpetual under performers on the big stage. The last 5 World Cups they have been eliminated in the round of 16. Coming off strong results in the warm up games prior to the World Cup including a win against the defending champions Italy has Mexico looking like they might very well make it 6 straight trips to the final 16.

Like Uruguay, Mexico's squad is laking in premier level talent consisting mainly of players from the domestic league. A natural captain and their best player, Rafael Marquez will most likely play in the central defense where he will be able to direct his troops. On attack, Mexico again are sending their prolific scorer Blanco. While one of the best Mexcian players to ever lace them up for his team, at age 37 it is questionable how much on an impact he can have in a World Cup.

South Africa

Relative newcomers to the international scene, South Africa looks set to struggle to advance from Group A despite having the home field advantage. Despite being undefeated in their last 1 games, the team is on a downward slide in international play, failing to qualify for the African Nations Cup. South Africa will undoubtedly by fiercely supported by the home supporters, but as one of the weakest teams in this years World Cup the lack of quality in the side makes it difficult to pick them for anything but a forth place finish.

With all time leading goals scorer Benni McCarthy not included in the squad, notable players are few and far between. Everton regular Steven Pienaar will be crucial in his winger position, but he will not be able to bring the team into the next round.