Despite Spain’s emphatic success at Euro 2008 it’s interesting to see that the Iberians are still available at 7/1 to win the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

That’s a price that should place football punters on red alert because despite the retirement of coach Luis Aragones this side has a nucleus of players good enough to bring them joy in South Africa and beyond.

The likes of Fernando Torres, Cesc Fabregas and Sergio Ramos all have long and distinguished careers ahead of them and can form a formidable bedrock for the new managerial appointment to build upon.

Confidence is everything in football and Spain’s Euro 2008 win can inspire them to greater things.

Brazil and Argentina head the betting at 5/1 and 11/2 respectively but those two footballing giants appear to have been priced up more on reputation than substance. Neither country made the semis in the 2006 World Cup.

Germany – outclassed by Spain in the Vienna final – are fourth favourites at 9/1 alongside Italy, who were no better than mediocre at Euro 2008.

However, two years can be a long time in football and that’s something Fabio Capello will bear in mind when weighing up his chances of turning England’s hopes around.

Certainly, if they had competed at Euro 2008, it is hard to imagine England going beyond the quarters. They’ll need to improve somewhat if they are to make an impression in Africa.

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