Netherlands: This team tend to qualify out of the groups in spectacular style....then fall at the first hurdle in the knockout stages. Back in Euro 2008 they won all three of their group games to finish first only to fall to Russia 3-1 at the first knockout stage. Full of talent with Van Persie and Kuyt up front but do they really have what it takes to win the whole thing? No. However they will progress from the group stage AND, if they can avoid Italy in the second round, will progress to the Quarter Finals before being knocked out.
Denmark: The Danes open up against the Dutch and will struggle to get a win with their aging squad. Next up are Cameroon, a team that is a must win if Denmark are to progress because their final game is against Japan who just may have more than can be handled in the speed department. Three and out.
Japan: This team just may surprise a few people although their World Cup record isn't anything spectacular (W1 D1 L8) but although I do not believe they will qualify from the group I also do not think they will be out of contention going into the last game.
Cameroon: On paper the best African team in the competition as far as qualifying for World Cups go (6 from the past 8) and they also boast super striker Eto'o. Certainly this is a potentially good group as they kick off against Japan then take on Denmark in two games they could realistically win which means their passage to the Second Round could be assured before they take on Holland.
My Predictions:
1) Holland
2) Cameroon
3) Japan
4) Denmark
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