Wednesday 23 March 2011

2011 Mens (Group C)

Group C is led by tournament favorite France, with the rest being a toss up for second place. Every game will be a battle in this group, whoever can play the most consistent will be awarded a birth in the knock out stage.

France:
Had a disappointing loss in the semi's for the second consecutive year. Will be looking to get over that hump and make it to the finals.

Strengths:
Team has solid depth at every position especially in the midfield. They are made up of 100% Regina players, so are familiar with each others playing styles. Great though often angry goalkeeping.

Weaknesses:
Have failed to win a big game when they need to. Lack elite quality on the wings.

Player to Watch:
Brett Bachelu - Mid/Striker - creates goal scoring opportunities and finishes many of them himself. Has had success at every level he has played.

Odds of Winning:
2/1

Botswana:
Has consistently improved every year since their existence. One of the most enjoyable teams to watch with fantastic fan support.

Strengths:
Very quick on the pitch, speed is definitely one of their main assets. The fact that they have been improving year after year means this year should be no different. Look for them to present a serious challenge to everyone in group C.

Weaknesses:
At times become wreckless and take many fouls. Will need to remain disciplined. Also will need to find a way to score more goals or at least create chances.

Player to Watch:
David Chabi - Midfielder - Has a fantastic touch on the ball and is a real joy to watch. Fan Favorite!

Odds of Winning:
100/1

Greece:
Looking to improve from last years tournament, Greece will have to battle hard to be successful in this group. Several years removed from making it to the knock out stage.

Strengths:
Arguably the most physical team in the tournament. Teamwork is what makes this team successful. Greece is full of confidence that they can make it out of this group.

Weaknesses:
Although they are very athletic, their technique is not the most refined. Their physical play often becomes excessive, which leads to fouls, free kicks and cards.

Player to Watch:
George Korolis - midfielder - Very quick player with good ball skills. Will be the key to Greece's midfield.

Odds of Winning:
75/1

Italy:
Continue to enter a team with very little turnover. Have never really been a contender, but have the possibility to maybe upset someone in this group.

Strengths:
Have been practicing hard which should help their product on the field. If they continue to work hard, this often translates into better results on the field.

Weaknesses:
Where do I begin? Depth is not a strong point and have shown no improvement on depth leading up to this year. They lost their goalie to Serbia which will not help.

Player to Watch:
Nestor Garzona - Midfield - Solid midfielder who will be one of the bright spots on this team. Could probably use a couple more of him.

Odds of Winning:
 251/1

Nigeria:
Nigeria is on the verge of being considered a contender. Will need to play consistently to make it out of this group.

Strengths:
Nigeria plays a very fast paced game that some teams can't keep up with. Great work ethic, with their wingers going back and forth all day. They have really started to come together as a team and will be very tough to beat when they are on their game.

Weaknesses:
They lack technical ability, this leads to many missed scoring opportunities. Do not react well to pressure at the back, and patchy goalkeeping often has dire consequences.

Player to Watch:
Emmanuel Otitoju - Striker - A massive wrecking force up front, physical specimen is lethal if he can turn and fire. Defenders be prepared to play most the game in his shadow.

Odds of Winning:
18/1

Afghanistan:
Have been practicing hard and will be looking to contend in group C.

Strengths:
Learning how to play as a team which will be needed for success. Have a strong center back that keeps them organized and can clear balls from danger areas. Experienced goaltender known to make fantastic saves in big games.

Weaknesses:
Finishing. Lack the personnel with consistent ability to put the ball in the net. Will need to score on their chances in order to be successful.

Player to Watch:
Noor Mitri - Keeper - Solid keeper that brings much needed leadership to this team. Has had success with other teams in this tournament, and has experience in big games.

Odds of Winning:
50/1

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