England’s chances of winning the World Cup 2014
Four years have passed since England crashed out of the World Cup in South Africa at the hands of Germany in a 4-1 hammering. Hopes for Fabio Capello’s side were low at the time with many predicting another quarter-final appearance at best, but even those were dashed with the second-round exit.
Roy Hodgson’s side go into the tournament in Brazil with the lowest expectations of a team in the past 20 years due to a squad low on experience in international competitions. From the England side that competed against Germany, only skipper Steven Gerrard and Wayne Rooney are likely starters for the Three Lions in their opener against Italy. Not surprisingly, Hodgson’s side are well down in the pecking order as favourites to win the tournament. Both Bet365 and Bet Victor feature England at 33-1, which could be a decent bet if key players fire.
However, England have their work to cut out even to get out of Group D where they will face Italy – their conquerors of Euro 2012 – and Uruguay, who finished fourth in the tournament four years ago. Given this draw, hopes aren’t high for Hodgson’s side to get of the group stages.
But this could be beneficial to the Three Lions, who in the past have looked burdened by the weight of expectations, particularly the ‘Golden Generation’ of 2006. Faith will now be placed in young players who will be given the chance to shine on the world stage, without the overwhelming pressure of a must-win mentality back home.
Liverpool have lit up the Premier League this year with performances that have propelled them to the brink of the title. At the heart of those displays have been four players who seem locks to start for Hodgson in Brazil. Raheem Sterling, Jordan Henderson, Daniel Sturridge and Gerrard have been in outstanding form and have all proven to be game winners for Brendan Rodgers’s side this season. If they can produce a similar level of performance for the Three Lions along with the best of Rooney and others, there is a chance England could match the best teams in the tournament on their day.
Their lack of experience and quality at the back could be their undoing, especially against the more potent attacks in the tournament. However, with the right tactics and some luck there’s no reason why Hodgson’s men can’t be the surprise package of the tournament.
Bet on England at 33-1 with bet365 and Bet Victor
