Group B is not as easy as it looks. It consists of Argentina, Nigeria, South Korea and Greece. Argentina look to be the clear favorites of this group but the battle for second could get very interesting.
Argentina
Arguably one of the favorites to win the World Cup, Argentina showcases a number of world class players. Lionel Messi, the 2009 FIFA Player of the Year, will lead the pack. Look for Juan Veron to make an impact as well, as he has finally returned to the international stage. They are managed by Diego Maradona (one of the greatest players in Argentina soccer history). Maradona is yet to prove himself as a top coach, as his team struggled during qualifications, and now he will get his shot on the main stage. Despite struggling during qualification, Argentina will be a force to be reckoned with.
Players to Watch:
Lionel Messi/Attacking Midfielder-Barcelona
Javier Mascherano/Midfielder-Liverpool
Juan Sebastian Veron/Midfielder-Estudiantes
Nigeria
All Nigeria fan’s have to be excited as Nigeria has the chance to showcase themselves on their home
continent. They are led by Chelsea midfielder, Jon Obi Mikel, who has had a great season for Chelsea but tends to be overlooked by Frank Lampard and Michael Ballack. Look for Obi to make a difference. Nigeria also has dangerous threats up front in Yakubu Aiyegbeni and Obafemi Martins. Nigeria could be a very dangerous team as their manager, Lars Edvin Lagerback, carries plenty of World Cup experience. Look for Nigeria to play inspired football in front of their fans.
Players to Watch:
Jon Obi Mikel/Midfielder-Chelsea
Joseph Yobo/Defender-Everton
South Korea
The South Koreans are always dangerous and should not be taken lightly. They are technically sound which gives them a chance to win against world class opponents. South Korea has many players that have World Cup experience, starting with their leader, Park Ji-Sung. Park has played in the last two World Cups for South Korea and has been a part of many big games for Manchester United. South Korea is a team which has always played with heart and desire. Don’t be surprised to see them make a run.
Players to Watch:
Park Ji-Sung/Midfielder-Manchester United
Park Chu-Young/Forward-Monaco
Greece
In my opinion, Greece is the most boring team to watch in soccer. Greece is a defensive minded team,
capitalizing on their few chances. They can be dangerous if you play into their style of football. Greece is very excellent off of set-pieces, making the most out of their opportunities. Striker Theofanis Gekas has been on a goal-frenzy as of late, scoring 10 out of 21 of all of Greece’s goals during qualifying. If he can continue his hot streak in the World Cup, Greece may make some noise. Greece’s squad has been in many big tournaments before, look for them to be ready to play.
Players to Watch:
Theofanis Gekas/Forward- Eintracht
Sotirios Kyrgiakos/Defender-Liverpool
Prediction
I think Argentina’s star power is too much to handle for the other teams. Messi has been questioned if he can produce for Argentina as he has produced for Barcelona. Look for him to answer his critics. The second place position can get interesting as it lies between Nigeria and South Korea. Something tells me Nigeria isn’t going to let their fans down. As for Greece, I think their style of football is the way to play in the World Cup. Playing too defensive minded and sneaking in goals for victories can be risky at this stage especially with all the high quality players.
In
Argentina
Nigeria
Out
South Korea
Greece