After a stuttering start, the big day has arrived for England's World Cup hopes. Many fans were left scratching their heads following Friday's dreary 0-0 draw against Algeria which leaves their team facing the unthinkable - early elimination from the World Cup. However, there is hope. England's destiny is in their own hands ahead of their final Group C match against Slovenia at Port Elizabeth on Wednesday at 1500 BST. BBC Sport takes a look at the permutations ahead of England's vital match and the equally-important game between the USA and Algeria in Pretoria. ENGLAND BEAT SLOVENIA, USA DRAW OR LOSE AGAINST ALGERIA The dour performance against Algeria is forgotten and a nation rejoices (or something like that) as England keep their World Cup hopes alive. England would qualify as Group C winners with five points and secure a meeting with the runners-up from Group D (possibly Germany). If USA draw, Slovenia advance as runners-up. If USA lose, goal difference would determine whether Slovenia (currently +1) or Algeria (-1) go through in second place. ENGLAND BEAT SLOVENIA, USA BEAT ALGERIA Fabio Capello can breathe easily in this instance too as England book their place in the last 16. England and USA would finish level on five points and goal difference would determine who progresses as Group C winners. If goal difference remains level, as is the case at the moment, goals scored (currently England 1, USA 3) would decide who finishes top. ENGLAND DRAW, USA DRAW In this scenario, England need a high scoring draw on Wednesday. Slovenia would go through as group winners, with England and USA finishing level on three points. Goals scored would decide who progresses. There is the possibility for drama even greater than that of a penalty shoot-out - if both sides are totally even then lots will be drawn to decide who goes through and who is out. ENGLAND DRAW, USA WIN OR LOSE England head for the departures gate and will probably not take much solace from the fact that they will be unbeaten and be home in time to watch the tennis at Wimbledon. Should USA win then they would finish level with Slovenia on five points and progress, should Bob Bradley's men lose then Algeria, with four points, would take the runners-up spot. ENGLAND LOSE Doomsday. England are eliminated and finish the group with two points. The post-mortem begins.
| 
E-mail this to a friend 
Printable version 
Bookmark with:
What are these?