World Cup 2010: Group A Predictions

I haven't blogged for almost a year now but I had some time so I just had to give my predictions for the upcoming World Cup which starts a week from Friday. My anger regarding Croatia's failure to qualify has ended a while ago and I can now think with a clear head. I will now have to settle with Team USA-- a team that I am somewhat excited about this year.

Well, anyway, in this post, I will give my Group A predictions. Group A includes Uruguay (ranked 16 in the world, 3rd in South America), France (9th in the world, 7th in Europe), Mexico (17th in the world, 2nd in CONCACAF), and hosts South Africa (83rd in the world, 17th in Africa).

Despite home field advantage, I don't expect South Africa to make it out of this group. I think France and Mexico are extremely overrated and will not impress at this World Cup, and Uruguay will surprise and maybe even top the group.

Here is my individual match predictions:

South Africa vs Mexico 1-1: While South Africa is definitely the weakest side in the group, I think that they do have enough in them to spoil it for some of the teams. They did have some impressive friendlies from what I have read and heard in the past few weeks. I believe that they will challenge the Mexicans. However, I don't think this will be a very exciting match. As I already said, the Mexicans are overrated and South Africa is one of the worst teams in this World Cup.

Uruguay vs France 0-0: In my opinion, France doesn't even deserve to be in this World Cup after that hand ball in their playoffs against Ireland. It would have been great to see Ireland in the World Cup. but FIFA is obviously extremely biased. while I do think France will advance to the next round, I think they will struggle a little bit against Uruguay and Mexico.

South Africa vs Uruguay 0-1 : Uruguay is the better team in this match and I think they will dominate for sure.

France vs Mexico 2-1: Both of these teams a probably expected to be favorites since tehy are both in the top 20. I think France does play better than Mexico. Thierry Henry will score at least once. They will end the first half tied 1-1 and France will score the game winning goal in the middle of the second half.

Mexico vs Uruguay 2-2: I have heard man people say Mexico can match any team they play. This is definitely true with their history on the pitch against South American teams. The last Copa America was proof of this when they finished third after beating Brazil comfortably in the Group Stage. This will be a good match and I think it will be pretty even. They are within 4 points of each in the world ranking too.

France vs South Africa 2-1: I don't see South Africa winning this one, but I do see a chance for South Africa to still be in it by the time this match comes with a few tiebreakers in play. However, I don't think this will happen. A tie will probably be enough for France. South Africa will score at least one goal but I think France will win 2-1 and eliminate South Africa.

Based on my predictions, here is how the standings will play out at the end of the group stage:

1. France 2-0-1 (7 pts) 4-2 +2
2. Uruguay 1-0-2 (5 pts) 3-2 +1
3. Mexico 0-1-2 (2 pts) 4-4 0
4. South Africa 0-2-1 (1 pt) 2-4 -2

This would put France and Uruguay into the Round of 16 and Mexico and Africa would be eliminated.

Next post, which I will try to do right now, will be my group B predictions.