Bet on England

Hi Chris here

I am having a great time in Frankfurt, the weather's lovely, the company's good and the beer nice and cool.

My hotel is full of Mexicans. They're all wearing big sombreros and are sporting droopy moustaches - they look like a load of extras for a spaghetti western but I'll tell you what, they are smiling away and having a great time.

Earlier I went down to see the stadium where England play Paraguay tomorrow, the Commerzbank Arena, but the security was really tight and I didn't think I would get in without the right accreditation but I smiled at a few people and they allowed me a peep and what a fantastic site, it really did look superb. But just think what it will be like when it is full of passionate England supporters, it will be incredible and I really can't wait.

Before then of course the hosts Germany are in action against Costa Rica and everyone in Frankfurt seems really excited. There's a giant screen in the square and everyone in the city seems to be making their way there.

I know there's an issue with the cross of St George at home but there are no such problems with the German flag, it is absolutely everywhere and the people seem to be really getting behind their team and are clearly going to make a lot of noise, even though Munich is a such a long way from here and I don't think the players will be able to hear!

They don't mind getting behind their team but I have to say that the Germans don't seem to be too keen on us English fans. I think if the boot was on the other foot we would be giving them plenty of hospitality, but that is the only downer for me so far.

Anyway, what about this opening game? Well I don't give Costa Rica a prayer. Even if Michael Ballack doesn't play I am sure the home nation with this great support will be far too strong.

I predict Miroslav Klose will score the first goal and Germany will run out comfortable 2-0 winners

There's another game of course later as Poland take on Ecuador.

Ecuador are going to find it difficult to get a single point in this tournament and will find things very difficult against Poland.

Poland have some really good players and don't forget they beat Ecuador 3-0 just last November in a little warm up game for this competition, although at the time they didn't know they would be paired up.

A player we know well, is Celtic's 29-year-old striker Maciej Zurawski and he is a fantastic player while Gregor Raziak of Southampton, the ex Spurs and Derby County striker, will be available on the bench if needed but I really don't think he will need to be called upon.

I think there are going to be two clear winners on day one Germany and Poland.

I can't wait for tomorrow it doesn't get bigger than this for England.

But for now I had better get ready for the opening game.

Good luck and I will update you on Saturday.

Cheers

Chris.