Group D for Death, Difficult and/or Deceptive?

December 4, 2009

The Socceroos will play in Group D for South Africa 2010, facing three-time champions Germany, African powerhouses Ghana and European surprise packets Serbia.

Australia start their Group D campaign against Germany in Durban on June 13, followed by Ghana, in Rustenburg on June 19, and Serbia, in Nelspruit on June 23.

Germany shape as the most difficult of the three opponents, having made the last four of the previous World Cup finals and the 2008 European Championship final.

Ghana, like the Socceroos, made the round of 16 at the previous World Cup.

Serbia, who topped their World Cup qualifying group ahead of 1998 champions France, are currently ranked one place above Australia at No.20 in the world.

The Ghanaians are the lowest-ranked nation in the group at No.37, but they boast a quality team featuring Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien and Inter Milan star Sulley Muntari.

Socceroos coach Pim Verbeek said he was content with his side’s draw.

“Could have been better, could have been worse,” he said.

“Germany’s one of the best teams in the world. It’s a great opponent for the first game.

“Ghana is very strong, and Serbia beat France.

“Every game is full of challenges.

“We have a good record against Ghana, we’ve never lost against them.”

The Socceroos last played Germany at the 2005 FIFA Confederations Cup, matching the host nation for much of the game but eventually falling to a thrilling 4-3 defeat in Frankfurt.

Australia last played Ghana in a friendly in May 2008, winning 1-0 with a Mile Sterjovski goal. Ghana were missing Essien and Muntari, but the Socceroos were also understrength.

This will be a great group for all teams involved. All are currently in good form and each bring their own qualities; German techincal brilliance, Australian fighting spirit, Ghanian flair and Serbian counterattack.

Those who think there are certainites for this group should think again.

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