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Ok its time for the group I've been waiting to breakdown, Group C. This group of course has the Americans, along with England, Slovenia, and Algeria. Lets start with the good ole US of A.

USA: Ok lets break down the 3 main aspects of the game: Defenders, Midfielders, and Forwards. The USA defense is solid, but injuries could play a factor. I'm happy to finally see Tin Howard in net in a world cup, as Kasey Keller's time ran about one world cup too long for my liking. The defense is led by veterans, but the biggest question and concern is the injured knee of star defender Oguchi Onyewu. Against the Czech Republic just last week, Gouch got up about as high as I do in trying to defender a corner kick. If he can't use his height and athleticism to its fullest capability, the USA could be in big trouble. The USA will live and die by their midfield. Led by stars Landon Donovan and Clint Dempsey, the USA needs these stars to be just that. Stars. Also keep an eye on Demarcus Beasley, who has fallen by the waste side after a strong 2002 world cup. Lastly, the Forwards for USA might be the biggest concern. Jozy Altidore is a star in the making, but we will have to see how the 20 year old responds to the biggest stage in the world. Also, there is concern over who the 2nd forward will be. My money is on Edson Buddle, who has been ripping up MLS this year.

Now onto their games. I'm actually happy that the US is starting off with England. Here's why. No matter who you are, the first half of your first world cup game is full of nerves. I would much rather have the US fight off nerves against a team that they are supposed to lose to, because they will have less pressure. If USA came out in their first game and fell behind to either Slovenia or Algeria, then the panic button would be hit far too early. Also, remember in the 2002 world cup when USA went up against heavy favorites Portugal and shot out with 3 first half goals! Now I'm not saying that will happen here, but you get the point. My prediction: the USA tie England 1-1, then get a combination of a tie and win against Algeria and Slovenia, leaving them with 5 points, which will be good enough to move on.

England: England had high hopes coming into this world cup, but things have not been good in recent months, starting with the injury to David Beckham. Now England won't miss much of his production, but its to measure what his experience means to the team. But Wayne Rooney is as good as they come, and England shouldn't have much trouble getting out of this group. Even further, if they can dodge Germany in the next round, they should have an easy road to the quarterfinals.

Slovenia: One could make the argument that the outcome of the Slovenia-Algeria game could be more important then the England USA game. If one of these teams can score a victory, and USA loses to England, then the USA will be in a must win against Slovenia in the next game. It must be said that neither team is a slouch. Slovenia is 25 and Algeria is 30.

Algeria: I think Algeria is the dark horse here, and once again, its due to the home field advantage. South Africa will be a frenzy anytime an African nation takes the field and this will be no exception. This country is also hungry after missing out on the world cup dating back to 1990. They could prove to be spoilers for the US.

My Prediction: 1. England 2. USA

What do you guys think? Will USA make it to the 2nd round? Let me know what you think. Thanks for reading.