Preview: England – United States

(GSM) – England and the United States begin their World Cup campaigns this Saturday in what is one of the most anticipated matches of the group phase.

The English return to the highest state after missing out on Euro 2008, and will be more than motivated to show their skills.

Qualification was not a problem this time around as Fabio Capello’s side easily won the group with nine wins and just one defeat. The team scored easily with 34 goals and just six conceded.

But there was also bad news ahead of the World Cup as central defender Rio Ferdinand suffered an injury which ruled him out for the tournament. Tottenham’s Michael Dawson was called up in his place but the question remains whether Ferdinand’s absense will prove to be too much for the English defense.

The United States had no difficulties qualifying from the CONCACAF zone either finishing first ahead of arch rivals Mexico. Three friendlies were played in recent weeks, losing to the Czech Republic before beating Turkey and, most recently, Australia.

The USA have made it a habit to perform well in World Cups that are not played on European soil, having reached the round of 16 at home in 1994 and the quarter finals at the 2002 tournament.

England’s Gareth Barry appears to have recovered from injury but will start on the bench, according to Capello.

The US had several players trying to get fit ahead of their opening game, but Jozy Altidore, Carlos Bocanegra and Oguchi Onyewu are all available.

England are clearly favored to win this game, but any other result is possible too when the two teams meet at Phokeng’s Royal Bafokeng Stadium. The match is scheduled to start at 20:30 local time.