Michael Ballack roots for England
Michael Ballack

England kick off their FIFA World Cup campaign on Monday when they take on Tunisia in their in their Group G encounter and while Gareth Southgate has a balanced team this year, not many people are rooting for the Three Lions.

Except for Michael Ballack that is.

The former Chelsea legend has gone on to claim that England will reach the semi-finals and might face his own nation Germany. But he also went on to add that it will be Germany who will eventually qualify for the finals.

Ballack said: “If I look at the groups and who can face each other, we [Germany] can face England in the semi-finals.

“On the other side, Brazil and France could face each other in the semi-finals.




“I can see a final of Germany vs Brazil because Brazil have come back strong with all their talents.”Former England and Manchester United centre-back does not seem to agree with Ballack as he thinks that two European nations will go head to head in the finals.

Ferdinand said: “It’s down to experience – they understand the way they want to play,

“Germany have been successful in previous tournaments and Spain have huge experience.”

Michael Ballack is the second big name who has backed England to make it big in this year’s World Cup after Jose Mourinho claimed that the Three Lions have what it takes to lift the trophy.




Gareth Southgate’s team have been drawn in one of the more tricker groups in the World Cup alongside Tunisia, Panama and Belgium.

While England are expected to ease through their first two group stage encounters, the biggest hurdle they will face will be against Belgium and this match can very well decide who tops the group.

Read: England defender brilliantly trolls teammate over Robbie Williams’ ‘middle-finger’ action.

Read: Former Newcastle United player accuses youth coach of molestation.

Read: Why are gamblers refusing to bet on Russia during the World Cup?

Read: List of the 20 most valuable football clubs in the world.

Read: Referees in the World Cup will not be flagging close offsides, but why?

Read: Here’s the list of the highest paid footballers in the world.