World Cup 2010 - Group E

Netherlands

Denmark

Japan

Cameroon

Group Strength
The only heavyweights in this group are the Netherlands and among the four teams only they can realistically aspire to get beyond the last 16 stage of the competition. The rest of the teams look good but they wouldn't be able to challenge for a quarter-final berth. Yet the games between these teams should be interesting as they are all around the same level. A surprise or two could even be sprung along the way.

Group Favourites
The Netherlands are easily the favourites to win this group. They were in great form in the qualifiers and won all their eight matches. Bert van Marwijk's side have exceptional attacking players such as Robin van Persie, Wesley Sneijder and Arjen Robben and although they are vulnerable at the back, the Oranje should comfortably win the three games in the group. Sneijder and Robben should be in great form following their exploits in Europe with Inter Milan and Bayern Munich respectively. If the Oranje are going to go far in South Africa these two will have to be accommodated to fulfil their strengths.

Battle for Second
The battle for the runners-up spot will be interesting as Japan, Cameroon and Denmark will all count themselves as second favourites in the group. Cameroon would especially believe in themselves given that they are an African side and would be buoyed by a 'home' support. Moreover, they have players such as Samuel Eto'o, Carlos Kameni and Stephane M'bia and if each of these, particularly Eto’o, performs to their potential then they should reach the round of 16.

The Outsiders
Japan should find themselves struggling in the group and along with Denmark will be looking to avoid finishing bottom of the group. The former World Cup quarter-finalists are one of the strongest teams in Asia but struggle against physical and technically superior sides. Cameroon can be physically intimidating and the Dutch are far superior to them in every aspect. Denmark should be able to hold off the challenge of Japan as they are more experienced at this stage of world football. The final group game between the two sides should decide who props up the group and while neither team will want that indignity I would expect Denmark’s superiority to show through.

Going Forward
Group favourites Holland will face Paraguay or Slovakia, while Cameroon should meet Italy in the last 16 stage if they qualify. Holland will fancy themselves to go far in this tournament and will believe this could finally be the year they break their World Cup hoodoo. Cameroon, however, will more than likely see their journey end at the hands of the defending champions.

Fixtures
Netherlands – Denmark, June 14th, (12.30)
Japan – Cameroon, June 14th, (15.00)
Netherlands – Japan, June 19th, (12.30)
Cameroon – Denmark, June 19th, (19.30)
Denmark – Japan, June 24th, (19.30)
Cameroon – Netherlands, June 24th, (19.30)

Prediction
1st – Netherlands
2nd – Cameroon
3rd – Denmark
4th - Japan