The World Cup is a worldwide event. The process leading up the 2010 World Cup started in August 2007 and finished in November 2009. During this time there were over 2,337 goals scored and 848 matches. In the end, the series of tournaments held by the six FIFA confederations covered the globe. The AFC (Asia), CAF (Africa), CONCACAF (North America), CONMEBOL (South America), OFC (Oceania), and UEFA (Europe) provided for the opportunity for 32 teams to play for the Cup; this is out of 204 teams that entered the qualification process. The only exception is the South African team that automatically qualifies as the host of the World Cup.
Out of these 32 teams, there are three favorites who are best poised to win it all.
Argentina - Leo Messi simply put is the best player in the world. While his stature is small, his play is massive. Argentina also has the best defensive midfielder in the world. Javier Mascherano is athletic and can read the field as good as anyone in the world. Another key piece of the puzzle is their coach. He understands how to win and has proven that over and over.
Italy - There is arrogance about that team, but it seems to work for them. They typically play down to their competition until the later stages of the Cup. They seem to need pressure and the threat of elimination before they play their best and up to their potential. There are four players who are crucial to Italy raising the Italian flag in victory. These include Rossi, Chiellini, Balotelli and De Rossi. If these four step up, the Italian flag will be hanging on the rafters.
Germany - This team is about team chemistry. They play efficient futbol and know how to leverage each teammate's gifts and skills. There are several players who are important to their team including Ballack, Podolski and Schweinsteiger.
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