FIFA World Cup Preview: England a Dangerous Underdog

The history of World Cups has shown that the English do not have it easy. The Three Lions continue clinging on to their first and only World Cup from 1966. Time and time again they see themselves out of the tournament, usually after penalty shootouts. Over the years, the team's fans have become experts in heartbreak, with penalty shootouts anxiety. But every tournament is a brand new opportunity, and for Brazil 2014 it seems that the English team is opening a new page in its book of losses with a squad built of a few veterans and many young players.  

A Young Squad

Boss Roy Hodgson picked some young players to wear the national jersey, including names like Raheem Sterling, Ross Barkley and Luke Shaw (nicknamed the "Three Lioncubs"). Critics like three World Cups veteran Sol Campbell have voiced their concerns about the team's young squad, warning that most of the team consists of players in their early 20s and just a few players aged 28+. With these concerns, England will be led by the experienced Captain Steven Gerrard, with other responsible adults by his side like Wayne Rooney, Gary Cahill, Phil Jagielka and Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart.

Key Player: Wayne Rooney

Wayne Rooney is one of England's key players to watch for Brazil. He is hungry having missed Manchester United's final two matches in one of its hardest Premier League seasons. Rooney wants Brazil 2014 to count for him and for the three lions. As if he was reciting David Bowie lyrics, Rooney said recently in a press conference that he believes all of England's squad can be heroes. The 28 year old striker appeared in 89 games playing for his national team, scoring 38 goals. He referred to England's first game against Italy, saying it will be vital to get out on top.

First Game against Italy Crucial

England's campaign begins June 14th, as the En-ger-landers meet Italy for the first round in Group D. Funny enough, the Italians were the last to beat England in a competitive game back in Euro 2012, sending off the Englishmen with a "traditional" loss after a penalty shootout which ended 4-2 for the Italians at the quarter-final. Besides England and Italy, Group D also contains Costa Rica and Uruguay, two very strong contestants.

Betting Odds

Sometimes, sportsbooks odds give the wisest estimations. Winner Sports is currently placing Italy as a favorite for England's first match, with 31/20 over England's 2/1 in full time result bets. Winner Sports is setting the stage for Brazil 2014 with some very interesting betting markets, including a special section dedicated to England including bets on qualifying from Group D, losing or winning in penalties, and will Wayne Rooney score 3 or more goals. Punters can place bets on outrights, to which stage of elimination England will climb: The odds for the English to win the World Cup are 28/1. While far from being a sure bet, England remains a very interesting betting opportunity for punters.