Cross Bars

In recent campaigns, it has almost become World Cup tradition for a relatively average German team to arrive at the competition, and at least reach the semi finals. The country’s grit, determination and physical power always proves too difficult for most of their weaker opposition, and in 2002, the Germans reached the finals in Japan and South Korea – four years later, they were eliminated in the semi finals. Team captain Michael Ballack however has recently played down the country’s chances to lifting the trophy come the summer of 2010.

He publicly announced his doubts that the side were strong enough to compete against the likes of England, Brazil, and Spain in South Africa. Ballack’s fears have probably intensified due to the difficult group his team have been handed. They face the Australians who are by no means a walkover – they have strengthened dramatically and could prove problematic for opponents. Ghana will also face Germany, who are perhaps physically the strongest team in the entire competition.

Finally, Ballack’s men will take on Serbia – another stern test for an inexperienced group of players. The team’s said captain is without doubt the country’s finest player, and best hope to progress to at least the second round – his experience of playing at the top level of the Premier League, and with players such as Frank Lampard and Didier Drogba, who his team may well come up against should they advance.

So, if you think Germany are in with a shout of winning the competition outright and you like doing a bit of football betting, then Bwin are currently offering 12/1 odds, decent value for money considering their history in the tournament.