As I mentioned in my previous post, Argentina are blessed with a wealth of attacking talent but lack organisation in defence, as well as a tactically sound manager. Even with the help of World Player of the year Leo Messi, La Albiceleste qualified for the tournament off the back of a rather unconvincing qualifying campaign which rested on the final game for Argentina to make it to the World Cup. Messi himself netted a very average (by his own high standards) four goals.

Inconsistency is probably the squad’s biggest failing. Coach Diego Maradona has used no less than 49 different players during qualifying, is unsure of his best formation and his tactics have been heavily questioned. Morale also appears to be a problem, and the team may find it difficult to hold their temperament for more than three games.

Nevertheless, the Argies will no doubt be expected to take the top spot. Although much has been said of Maradona’s rather dubious coaching ability, the fact is that my nan could probably take the team to a respectable distance in the competition, given the talent in the squad.

My prediction: 1st

Nigeria

It’s been a long time since the Super Eagles were African Cup of Nation and Olympic gold medallists in the mid-nineties. The nation has since failed to make much of an impact on the world stage since. The fact that star man John Obi Mikel has fallen prey to the injury curse that is wreaking havoc to big-name players in the lead up to the World Cup, is another huge blow to the team.

However manager Lars Lagerback is fairly new in charge, having taken the helm only in February, and few friendlies have been arranged for the squad, meaning that the new coach has yet to really show what he can do.

The team suffer from a similar disorganisation that blights the Argentina side, but without raw footballing talent of their South American rivals. Expect the Nigerians to put up a fight on their home continent, but don’t expect them to go too far.

My prediction: 3rd

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