2002worldcup

2002 South Korea and Japan World Cup

After the disappointment of four years previously at France 98, England were drawn in Group F alongside Sweden, Nigeria and old foes, Argentina. Revenge was sweet when Sven Goran Eriksson's beat Argentina 1-0. However, two draws against Sweden and Nigeria saw England finish second in the group but thankfully a diabolical showing from reigning World champions, France, meant that England would go on to face Denmark in the last 16.

An emphatic 3-0 win over the Danish with goals from Rio Ferdinand, Michael Owen and Emile Heskey saw England cruise in to the Quarter Finals were they would face the eventual champions Brazil.

Whilst the match odds were clearly stacked against England to beat Brazil, Sven's men started impressively well, taking an early lead thanks to Michael Owen. The nation was finally thinking that this could be our year and the patriotic betting on England could for once be right! However joy soon turned to disappointment as an equaliser from Rivaldo before an error from England keeper David James put an end to the nations World Cup dreams for another four years.

Overall the England side of 2002 looked to have a good chance of doing well in Japan and South Korea and whilst a Quarter Final defeat can't be considered too bad, it was yet more bad luck that saw England's World Cup hopes come to an end.

England's 2010 World Cup Matches

Saturday 12th June, 19:30, England v USA
Friday 18th June, 19:30, England v Algeria
Wednesday 23rd June, 15:00, England v Slovenia