Underestimating underdogs can cost England, France and Mexico dear, claims SA mystic

Cape Town, Jun 11 (ANI): A spiritual mediator has predicted that underestimating the underdogs and inflated egos could cost England, France and Mexico dearly at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

"Players need to remember that they are here to play soccer and not worry about outside political influences. Underestimating the underdogs could mean losing the World Cup," psychic medium and spiritual mediator Sharon-Ann Riley told News24.

Mexico take on hosts South Africa in the opening match of the World Cup at Soccer City, Johannesburg on Friday.

Former champions France and Uruguay play each other in Cape Town, also on Friday, and England play the US on Saturday at the Royal Bafokeng Sports Palace in Rustenburg.

She also said Panathinaikos midfielder Gilberto Silva could emerge as Brazil's hero in a team that could struggle.

"Their team is struggling to get used to one another. Dunga has a strong creative game plan, which will get them to the quarterfinals. It will not be an easy road. Gilberto is holding the team together and must remain positive," she said.

Commenting on Spain, she said the team will have highs and lows, where they will coast along through the tournament until the semis.

About South Africa's chances in the World Cup, she said: "The nation is pulling together and mounting pressure on the boys to perform. The team spirit may be high," she said, but a lack of confidence and tension amongst players could affect them.

She also cautioned that Ctte d'Ivoire and a few of the so-called minnows could cause a few upsets during the month-long tournament. (ANI)