Spain: Europe's best bet!!

Spain has been the perennial underachiever at the World Cup’s but things are looking different this time around. They have displaced Brazil at the top of FIFA world rankings and have easily brushed aside any competition en-route to finals. They look by far the best European team – and alongside Brazil- are being touted as the tournament favorites.

Since the World Cup started in 1930, no European nation has won the trophy on another continent. Spain has the potential to change this forever in July 2010 provided they have some luck and they keep their top players fit. A lot would depend on Torres’ goal scoring ability and Spain would need him fit and firing. They have talent all across the pitch and for the first time in years they also appear to have the resolve to go far. This Spanish side plays fluid and sumptuous football and is the team to watch out for.

What about the other European powerhouses? Germany and Italy are big match teams and they have the knack of producing their best when it matters. They will be a threat as always and have a fair chance of going deep into the tournament. I would not be able to say the same about France though. I feel they will struggle under Domenech and an early exit for France would be justice for Ireland. The farther that France goes the more will it hurt. I hope they are drawn alongside either Brazil or Spain with USA or Ivory Coast for company. With Capello at helm, England appears formidable if they can keep the squad injury free. This is going to be my team in South Africa and I would root for them all the way.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/philminshull/2009/12/spain_can_finally_end_europes.html