Here's what is at stake and what to look for as the final group games start tomorrow. First blurb will lay out scenario, then my predictions in order of finish for the top 2 in each Group.
Group A - Ecuador and Germany have wrapped up the second round slots, but play each other for top spot tomorrow - should be a good test for both teams and coaches.
Ecuador (goal differential)
Germany
Group B - The lame duck of the Cup so far. England is through, but needs to hold Sweden to a draw if they want top spot in the last game. There is talk of Rooney starting up front with Owen...I think that would be a good idea to see what you've got with those 2 Sven...
England
Sweden
Group C - Original Group of Death actually played out according cliche'd predictions...Argentina and Holland. Luckily as these 2 face each other in the finale Wednesday they too are playing for pecking order in the final group standings. We'll see our first test of the Argentinian defense...Dutch too for that matter.
Argentina
Holland
Group D - Portugal and Mexico are clear at the top. A Portugal win over Mexico and an Angolan multi-goal victory over Iran could see the Africans squeeze into the second spot.
Portugal
Angola (why not)
Group E - Has turned into the most wide open Group with all the teams still alive going into Thursday. Italy controls their fate most, any point ensures passage - a victory over the Czechs, top spot. An Italy win and a US win sees the RW&B go through. But a Ghana win (possible) would see them through with Italy. Czechs need a some healthy forwards and also a win...
Italy
Ghana
Group F - Brazil is in with top spot with any point. Aussies vs. Croats will be a good game - Aussies through with any points, the Croats need all 3 - a distinct possibility.
Brazil
Croats
Group G - Interesting Group - the current top spots - Swiss and S. Korea - are duking it out and both need a point to ensure passage. France need the win and all three points, plus several goals against the Togo yahoos.
Swiss(goal differential)
France - Zizou lives on...
Group H - Spain and the Ukraine are the class of the group and both should slide through easily with their final games against their respective Africans.
Spain
Ukraine
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