Irrespective of your sympathies, who shall win the World Cup?

[joseph grech]

Given the overwhelming climate of football mania, this is a pertinent question. Please provide reasons for your answers, however untechnical they may be

Here is mine: Argentina! Reason: With match-defining players like Messi and Milito, and under the formidable coaching of legendary Maradona, and given the underlying ethos of South American football, I think the Argentinians have a well-rounded package.

Btw: What do you think of the song Shakira has concocted for the World Cup? Me thinks it's very evocative given the South African environment.

N.B. Notwithstanding this spotlight on football, my attention shall probably be more focussed on Wimbledon in the coming month, since it happens tennis gets me more than football : )

[farscapeone]

I watched Argentina vs. Nigeria and I think they (Argentina) were that good. The reason if they have too much pressure. They know they have top players and they are afraid of letting everyone down. Pressure is one of the worst enemies in any sport and if they don't deal with it it could completely block their play. On the other hand theres Maradona that gets angry every time his players make a slightest mistake adding more pressure instead of helping them resolve it.

On the other hand I don't like to make predictions especially because I believe that everything is possible. Just look at UK vs. US and you'll see what I'm talking about ;)

[callumacrae]

ENGLAND.

No, seriously, I haven't a clue. I can't be bothered with football

~Callum

[goldblue]

Spain. The best "team" not just about inviduals.

[ataarticles]

Spain. The best "team" not just about inviduals.

I don't watch much football but the World Cup i find more interesting. It seems Spain is the favourite team at the moment, but this could change.

[wongers]

well Germany won 4-0 but im not entirely sure they have it takes, plus they have a "slight" advantage in that they have been using the new football for the last season so they are used to it being lighter and such which everyone else is crying about.

tbh most of the favourites Brazil/Portugal/Argentina are all looking a bit sub-par. personally i think Brazil will do it, they look the strongest altho still not as good as i would have imagined. Argentina have a good side but I have doubts over Maradona's ability. Portugal - well i just dont think they have what it takes.

only other teams to consider are the likes of France, Italy and dare i say England. Italy are too boring, France are too old and England are too inconsistant.

your thoughts?

[DeadBattery]

I believe that the team that plays best shall win.
tbh, I haven't watched a full game; only bits and pieces of them.

[cybrax]

According to the bones of one soothsayer, Sebenzile Nsukwini a genuine Zulu witch-doctor has declared “Nigeria go play quarter final. Brazil go win.” can't argue with that.

[wongers]

sounds good to me lol. well spain looked VERY disappointing last night so i'm still leaning towards Brazil, although i have a feeling that we wont see top gear football til the quarter finals anyways.

definitely the most boring world cup ive watched thus far!! lol

[joseph grech]

On the other hand theres Maradona that gets angry every time his players make a slightest mistake adding more pressure instead of helping them resolve it.

I don't think the relational dynamics between Maradona and the team are that bad; on the other hand I think Maradona is genuinely loved and revered by his team; well obviously that's one side of the coin. Certainly no other coach kisses, embraces, and greets the player the way Maradona does when they leave the pitch : ) The guy may be a show-off eccentric, however I believe there is true magnanimity to his behaviour.