Gameday Everyday

Teams:

Argentina

Nigeria

South Korea

Greece

Argentina- Albicelestes (White and Sky blue):

What can I say about Argentina? There are only a few countries that even non-soccer fans can name when asked, “Who are the best soccer teams in the world?” and Argentina is one of them. They are led by arguably the “Greatest Soccer Player Ever” Diego Maradona, who may be more of a liability than help with his fiery unpredictable personality. If Argentina is going to make a run at its third World Cup title, than they will undoubtedly need a world class performance from, “The Best Player in the World” Lionel Messi. Leo Messi has captivated the world in such a short time while playing at Barcelona. Anything short of winning it all would be a failure with the explosive players up top (Tevez, Messi and Higuain) and the veterans in the back. Don’t cry for me …as we may do enough for all of Argentina.

Player to watch: Tevez “Apache” (Does not get the attention of Messi but led the team in goals in Qualifying)

World Cup Titles: 1978 & 1986

Qualified: 4^th in CONMEBOL (South America)

Nigeria- Super Eagles

Missing the World Cup in 2006 after making 3 straight Nigeria is trying to reclaim their place as Africa’s best. The Super Eagles are a dangerous team with the speed and athleticism always on display. This team lacks the star power of the Nigerian teams of the 90’s, but has recognizable veterens in John Obi Mikel (Chelsea Midfielder) and Nwankwo Kanu (Portsmouth and Arsenal). Even if they don’t win a match the will have some great goal celebrations.

Player to watch: Peter Odemwingie (fast striker that can change the game quickly)

Best World Cup Finish: 1994 & 1998 2^nd Round

Qualified: 1^st in CAF (Africa) Group B

South Korea- Taeguk Warriors

The pride of Asian Soccer, South Korea look to duplicate their shocking run from the 2002 World Cup (Semi-finals). South Korea will be led by a few 30 something’s and the “Fab Four” (I know they don’t even compare to the REAL “Fab Four”) Park Ji-sung (Man United), Lee Chung-young (Bolton), Ki Sung-yong (Celtic) and Park Chu-young (AS Monaco). They will need the “Red Devils” (Korea fans who are decked out in red) to rekindle some of the fire from 2002 or it could an early exit. Insert here, lame joke about this team and having Seoul.

Player to watch: Park Chu-young (AS Monaco striker who might end up as South Korea’s best ever)

Best World Cup Finish: 2002 Semi-Finals

Qualified: 1^st in AFC (Asia) Group 2

Greece- To Piratiko (The Pirate Ship)

With all the turmoil in Greece, the Greek people and these pirates could really some good news. Unfortunately, even the gods can’t help them in their second ever appearance in the World Cup Finals. Greece winning Euro 2004 beating the best in the world proves they have the fire to put together a little run. Do not expect excitement when watching this team, as they lack any sort of star power. Having a 71-year-old coach, in Otto Rehhagel, does not count as experience. Should be a Big Fat Greek Lose.

Player to watch: Theofanis Gekas (Nomadic talisman Scored 10 goals in Qualifying)

Best World Cup Finish: 1994 1^st Round

Qualified: 2^nd in UEFA (Europe) Group 2

Predicted Finish:

Argentina

South Korea

Nigeria

Greece

Game to Watch:

Argentina v South Korea June 17^th 12:30(Lack of defense for Korea and scoring power for Argentina= Goooooooooals!!!)