Hey guys, All the friendlies have been taken care of. Teams have finalized their squads. I realize alot of these groups have polls however votes have been made weeks ago. Please use this new poll to place your final selections. Use your head and not your heart. I am curious how peoples feelings have changed regarding the groups now that we are finally here!
Germany should claim first place. It's not necessarily given to them, but they have the depth, experience, and quality to take the group. It's really a toss-up between Mexico and Sweden for second place. Some might feel Sweden has the edge, but I voted Mexico mainly because they have made the last 16 in the past 6 World Cups. I don't see that streak ending this time out. Sweden last advanced to that stage in 2006, but they can't be ruled out considering they beat the French, Dutch and Italians in their bid to reach these finals. That's a mighty impressive feat. It's hard to see South Korea prevailing in this group, but they do have players who can make the difference and maybe spring a surprise.
I've seen Mexico in the Juan Carlos Osorio era. They're a bad team that has been bailed out by a weak confederation.
I agree. I expect no CONCACAF team to advance. But there are still some who think Mexico will gear up once the World Cup starts as always. You seem very hopeless. No chance they can?
There is always a chance, I mean, despite the injuries, Mexico still has some good talent in it's squad and maybe Osorio could put a rabbit out of a hat and finally make it all click; but I have the impression that if Mexico passes the group stage, it will have more to do with a Sweden and South Korea collapse than with Mexico doing something right. Starting against Germany doesn't help.
I think Sweden will get a draw against us in that second game while I expect Mexico to lose in the opener. But Mexico isn't as inept with the ball as Italy was...although they'll have to actually start finishing their chances...so I dunno if the Swedes will get the result that they'll need out of that final match. Should be a tense third matchday.