Prior to the start of the World Cup 2006, most people believed there were two groups of death, Group C with Argentina, Netherlands, Cote D’Ivoire and Serbia and Montenegro and then Group E with Italy, Czech Republic, United States and Ghana. We have now seen each team in the tournament play 2 games each, and Group C is already decided, with Argentina and Netherlands with 6 points each, and they are both through to the second round, with only the placing in the group left to be decided. Cote D’Ivoire was very dangerous in their two games, but just couldn’t get the job done, and are left with 0 points after two matches. Serbia and Montenegro only allowed one goal in the World Cup qualifying, but have looked horrible in their two matches, losing 6 – 0 against Argentina.
So, group C turned out to be nothing much at all, the two favored teams move on easily with the other two are still without a point. Group E on the other hand, is still wide open after 2 matches. Italy is the only one that controls its own destiny, if they win, they win the group and are onto the second round. Both Ghana and Czech Republic are in a good position, and if they each win, they are both in. The problem is the Czech Republic will be matched up with Italy while Ghana will be matched up with the US, and Italy is a big favorite over Czech Republic. Asuming Italy wins, the winner of the Ghana vs. US game will advance in second place and will most likely have to play Brazil.
The Group of Death has come down to the last day, and is the only group that no one has clinched a spot in the second round and all four teams are still alive going into their last match.