World Cup 2006 Team Profiles - Group C

I will be taking a look at all 32 teams participating in the 2006 World Cup, doing a team-by-team capsule, organized by group. Group C looks to be a strong mix of South American flair, solid European teams, and another of the first-time African nations. This group is headlined by big name stars.

Argentina
World Cup Appearances: 14th Appearance; 9th Consecutive
Best Finish: Champions (1978, 1986)
Key Players: Juan Riquelme, MF; Javier Saviola, F; Herman Crespo, F

Notes:

It's been 20 years since the 'Hand of God' goal, and long gone are the people who were involved. What we do have, however, is a team hungry for another taste of World Cup glory, and after a disappointing 2002 campaign which finished with a disappointing finish in the group stages. But this team is primed for a better finish this time around. They did have some trouble during their qualifying stages, but they still finished with 34 points. It was, however, only good enough for second place behind , marking the first time since qualifying for the 1994 World Cup that did not win their qualifying group.

This team does not have the world profile of Argentine teams of the past, however there is no doubting their overall talent or hunger. They have a very balanced group of young players with experienced veterans, and you look have to expect that in order for them to do well they must gel quickly on European soil.