Imagine It's The Last 16 Of The World Cup: Who Should England Avoid?

It's June 23rd and England are about to advance (hopefullly) from Group C in first or second position. Whatever happens, Capello's men will still face a tough last 16 clash. Using the power of predictions it's time to look at who England might face and who is best avoided from Group D.

Group D teams

Australia
Germany
Ghana
Serbia

The first group game sees Serbia take on Ghana at Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Pretoria (13 June). This will be tough for Ghana if Michael Essien is still out. Serbia will probably be too strong anyway.

Prediction: Serbia to win

Germany face Australia at Moses Mabhida Stadium, Durban, on the same day. The absence of Ballack through injury should not impede the Germans here.

Prediction: Germany to win

Five days later (18 June) Germany meet Serbia at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Port Elizabeth. The victor, if there is one, should emerge as group winner. Will it be Germany? I have my doubts.

Prediction: Serbia to win

On the following day Ghana and Australia meet at Royal Bafokeng Stadium, Rustenburg. This is likely to be a battle between also-rans.

Prediction: Australia to win and Harry Kewell to limp off injured

On 23 June Ghana face Germany at Soccer City in Johannesburg while Australia take on Serbia.

Predictions: Serbia beat Australia, meaning Germany just need a point against Ghana to go through

So according to my predictions (and those of FIFA and German coach Joachim Low) Serbia are the dark horses of Group D.

They did very well in qualifying and could cause a few surprises.

Presuming England head Group C, this sets the stage for a last 16 clash with Germany.

Come second and Serbia stand in the way of a quarter final place.

I don't like the look of either but would choose to play Germany over Serbia.

The latter have nothing to lose and would relish the chance to take on England.

By contrast the Germans could be a weakened force, their confidence sapped by criticism.

Well, I can live in hope, can't I?