An overall wrap up of the Top 10 favourites to win the World Cup...

10 - Czech Republic, Probably the most impressive team so far of the tournament, although they’ve played the over rated USA. With 3 outstanding goals, the Czechs seemed organized and played well under pressure. The best all round performance of any team in the tournament so far.

9 – Portugal, Got off to a flyer against Angola, and looked as though a 6 nil score line was on the cards. Slowed down in spurts, but definitely showed superiority over the former colony. Can improve, look good in attack, but the defence looks a little nervous. I think Iran and Mexico will force the Portugese to perform at their best.

8 – Holland, Tried hard to convince the world that they are the real deal against Serbia and Montenegro. They didn’t convince many, but still earned the 3 points thanks to a dour display from opposition not at their best. I think the Ivorians and the Argentines might touch them up. Very over rated without justification. Good chance if they avoid Portugal in the second round.

7 – Spain, A thumping 4 nil victory over the Ukraine got Spanish fans blood pumping. The Ukrainians played much like the Serbs, they just weren’t at their best, and Spain were awarded a penalty that wasn’t, and scored 2 deflected goals. I think Spain will qualify from their group with 9 points, but wont be better for it in the later stages when they play a form team. Looking good.

6 – France, Nil all with the defiant Swiss. It could have been worse. A slow start for the French. I think they can only get better. Zidane looks good, but Henry is nervous at national level. I think for France to make any impact in this tournament, Trezuguet must play. Not looking like semi final material.

5 – Italy, A convincing win over Ghana has the Azzurri beginning their quest for a 4^th world cup in good shape. Cannavaro marshaled the defence brilliantly against the fast counter attacking Africans. This was a good all round performance in the midfield, and Luca Toni looked good up front. A lucky goal from Iaquinta gave the Italians the 2 nil win which they deserved. A showdown with the Americans and Czechs looms.

4 – Argentina, Not overly convincing against the Ivorians, but showed their true class with some scintillating play throughout different parts of the game. Saviola looks in good touch, with Riquelme constructing their attacks. The true tests will come against the Dutch, but looking good. Albeit, the 6 nil belting of Serbia and Montenegro is proof that this team can break the non-European team world cup hoo-doo.

3 – Germany, 4-2 and 1-0. So far so good, but don’t bet your house on the hosts. The midfield looks ok, Klose is great in attack, but the defence still looks shaky. I think the 2^nd round could be their final, whether it’s the Swedes or the English. Looking ok.

2 – England, The English look unconvincing and nervous in attack. But the average football fan already knew this before the tournament already started. Crouch is sub standard, and Beckham is delivering 1 good ball out of every 15. If the English are the true 2^nd favourites, world football’s standards should be at school boy level. Not good at all. Expect luck or the referees help to get them anywhere near a semi final.