England will head to South Africa for the World Cup finals next summer with high hopes of lifting the famous trophy for the first time since 1966.

Here we take a look at some of the teams who could threaten their dreams of glory for Fabio Capello's men.

BRAZIL

If their recent meeting in Doha is anything to go by, England are still some way short of overtaking the Samba boys.

Brazil's quarter-final exit at the 2006 World Cup in Germany was the first time since 1990 they failed to reach the final. Two-time reigning Copa America champions, the World Cup is their stage, having won it five times and already qualified for South Africa.

And Kaka's not bad either.

SPAIN

The European champions have a team so brimming with ability even arguably the best midfielder in England - Cesc Fabregas - is not guaranteed a place. Torres, Villa, Silva, Iniesta, Xavi. Any one would walk into the England team; together they make up the most potent attacking force in world football and showed in 2008 that they now have the mentality to deliver on the big stage.

SOUTH AFRICA

The host nation are always a danger. Think South Korea in 2002, when even the most die-hard of their supporters would have struggled to argue they were one of the best four sides in the world. Yet they made it to the semi-finals. Enthusiastic support, a favourable draw, and some questionable refereeing decisions could get the momentum going.

GERMANY

Boasting an ageing Michael Ballack, a host of inexperienced goalkeepers and a suspect defence, on paper the Germans should pose few problems for England. But this is Germany and England and a major international tournament. Things are never that easy.

ARGENTINA

Argentina may not be the force they once were, only scraping through the South America qualifying group.

However, just like manager Diego Maradona, they remain unpredictable and he would love nothing more than to ruin England's best laid plans again this summer. Oh, and of course there is that Messi bloke.

HOLLAND

The Dutch have not risen up to third in the world rankings for nothing, as they swept through qualifying with eight wins from eight and put pay to Scotland's chances along the way. Much will depend on the fitness and form of Arsenal striker Robin van Persie, horse placenta permitting, while there still remains a question mark of whether their stars can produced on the big stage when it matters, coming unstuck against Russia at Euro 2008 after having looked so good in the opening games.

ITALY

It used to be the Germans you wrote off at your peril, but perhaps next summer the Azzurri will be the dark horses. Don't forget Italy are the defending champions, and they held off a spirited challenge of the Republic of Ireland to top their qualifying group.

FRANCE

Whether they use their hands or not, should Les Bleus get it together in South Africa next summer, then they certainly have the quality to go one better than four years ago.

However, harmony within the France camp seems to be an issue, and could yet see them implode - which would sure see the odd glass raised in Dublin.