Yebda: England are favorites for 2010 WC

(GSM) – Portsmouth’s Algerian international midfielder Hassan Yebda believes England are capable of winning the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

The France-born star, who is currently on loan at Fratton Park from SL Benfica, is set to go head-to-head with the Three Lions next summer.

Algeria have been drawn alongside England, the United States and Slovenia in Group C, as they prepare for their first appearance at the finals in 24 years.

Yebda is confident the African minnows can spring a surprise or two in their efforts to reach the knockout stages, but admits that Fabio Capello’s side will be the team to beat when the best sides on the planet congregate to do battle.

“England can go all the way,” he said in the Daily Star.

“They have a very good team and a very good manager. Fabio Capello is a clever guy.

“So they have everything – excellent supporters, the right players and manager – everything needed to win the World Cup.

“I think it is a good draw for us, because at least we are not in with England, Brazil and Germany. The three games we play in the group will be very different.

“We will do everything we can to win them, but we know that will be difficult. However, I hope it will be possible to finish second in the group and progress to the next stage.”

Yebda, who qualifies to play for Algeria through his parents, is determined to ensure that his adopted country give a good account of themselves next summer and insists they will have some of the most fanatical followers in South Africa.

“I am very proud to play for Algeria, because of my father and mother, and I still have lots of family there. I go back to Algeria a lot to see my family,” he added.

“Everybody was excited when we got through to the finals. The last time was in 1986 when I was only two years old. I don’t remember it, but I have seen videos.

“We also had a famous victory in the 1982 finals when we beat (West) Germany.

“Austria were also in the group and Austria and Germany played out the final game to make sure we did not qualify. This time we hope we will face Germany again – and beat them again!

“This is the first time at the finals for this generation and it is a big thing for Algeria after 24 years waiting. Football is very popular and our biggest sport. After we qualified and went back there, it was unbelievable.

“Everybody was in the streets, waving flags and banners. It was a real carnival atmosphere. Ideally, if England win the group, we want to finish second.

“We will do our best. If we do manage second place, it will bring euphoria to the whole of Algeria.”