ARGENTINA

Formation: 4-1-3-2

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The Coach: Diego Maradona

His career both as player and manager has been surrounded by controversy. However his antics of the field seemingly took the spotlight of his players who delivered a spot in the Cup. Good or bad? We’ll let you make your own mind up, but if he goes all the way he will become the third man to win the Cup as both player and coach.

The Captain: Javier Mascherano

The midfield general didn’t have the best of seasons with Liverpool, however his pride and passion in the jersey is undoubted. The fact he has so many world class players around takes a lot of weight of his shoulders.

The X-Factor: Lionel Messi

As much as we didn’t want to go with the crowd, this guy is in the form of his life. His destructive dribbling and pace with a clinical finish has made him into a real star. If he can produce on the world’s biggest stage, he’ll have achieved almost everything in football at just 23 years.

The Flaw: Discipline

If Maradona can’t control his key players throughout the tournament, it could become a problem. They certainly weren’t contained during qualifiers and if they start losing players to suspension the equation will only get tougher.

The Verdict: Runners Up

As a whole, this Argentinean squad is full of potential. When you have the likes of Carlos Tevez coming off the bench the talent is there. The biggest question will be gelling as a team, if they can do it, who knows if anyone can stop them.

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NIGERIA

Formation: 4-3-3

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The Coach: Lars Lagerback

Former Sweden boss, Lagerback will be looking to take Nigeria through a group which it realistically could. His ability to spark the team will be an issue though when their backs are against the wall. The fact he only has two warm up games to get a feel for his players seems ridiculous though.

The Captain: Nwankwo Kanu/ Joseph Yobo / Vincent Enyeama

The fact so many different players have been rumoured to take the role for the Cup is an emphasis on how much of a struggle Nigeria are in. Kanu is the official captain; however he’s lost his place in the team of late.

The X-Factor: Peter Odemwingie

Sparking the frontline, Odemwingie will be crucial if Nigeria are to progress to the next phase. His ability to link up with Obasi and then find the net will be important. Can he bag as many as he did in Angola?

The Flaw: The Football Association

Sure, there are things that are missing on the field. But the pure confusing and almost ridiculous running of a football association is beyond a joke. There is a lot of politics going on behind the scenes that could hurt the squad.

The Verdict: Group Stage

Their lack of a few players with a real ‘spark’ is worrying and with the board struggling, it’s hard to see the Africans doing much. However, their impressive performance and backs-to-the-wall spirit might lift them.

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SOUTH KOREA

Formation: 4-4-2

TAB Sportsbet: $251

The Coach: Huh Jung-moo

Has never really be given the respect he deserves since his predecessor was none other than Guus Hiddink. However his confidence in younger players and ability to grind out results is making him more popular with fans.

The Captain: Park Ji-sung

Inspiration and talent in a nutshell, the Manchester United man always turns up. His knack of providing a killer ball, finding space or finishing is superb and a lot of South Korea’s hopes rest with him.