South Africa: They kick off their World Cup against arguably the toughest team in their group, Mexico. If they can get a draw here (or a very surprise win) then they will go into their second game against Uraguay in a very buoyant mood. However I think they will have the honor of being the first host nation to fail to advance from the group stage. That's exactly how I see that going.
Mexico: With France being hounded from home and their lead up friendlies not yielding the best results , it is fair to say that Mexico should be looked on as the odds on group winners. They can kick off their World Cup against the hosts, and 'on paper' weaker teams in their group. However many teams stutter in the first game and the possibility of an upset has to be considered, although not to seriously. After the hosts come France, in a game which would possibly decide positions 1 and 2 in Group A.
Uraguay: Do not underestimate these guys, especially with their first game being against the very wobbly French team. Senegal beat the French in the opening game of the 2002 World Cup and the French media and politicans back home are placing pressure on the French manager. This game is possibly the most important for Uraguay if they wish to procede. A win against the French in this game means game 2 Uraguay will face South Africa while the French face Mexico.
France: The downside to the French side is the fact they are all French! The World Cup winning team of 1998 has now long gone into TV/Radio and the new team should be winning games, but it doesn't. Watch out for the exodus of National Team Managers after (and throughout) the World Cup with Raymond possibly being one of the first.
My Predictions
1) Mexico
2) France
3) Uraguay
4) South A
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