This is easily the worst group in the tournament. Italy, while defending champions, contain mostly old players many years past their time. They lack the speed and creativity of the other top teams in the world. However, because of the lack of quality of the other teams in the group, they should coast into first place and allow Pirlo to come back healthy for the knockout rounds. They key to Italy reaching the finals again, is not Pirlo, but rather excellent winger Di Natale showing the top form he played all season for a poor Udinese side.
Paraguay has faith on its side. Their top striker, Cabanas, was shot in the head but somehow survived. He obviously will not be taking part in the tournament though which is a huge blow to their squad. The key to their squad is their captain and goalkeeper, Villar, and whether he can handle crosses the other teams fire in.
Slovakia is in their first ever major tournament. Their star offensive player, Hamsik, and star defender, Skrtel, both have the talent and experience to lead this squad to the next round. The key is if the hardworking Sestak can score some goals up top because they do lack firepower in the final third.
New Zealand is regarded as the worst squad in the tournament. However, their size up top can potentially cause many problems on corner kicks. With a 3-4-3 formation, they should end up scoring a goal or two in the tournament. If they can somehow win one game, it will be regarded as a huge success. I do not see that happening though.
Paraguay, Italy
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