So how does Goldman Sachs expect World Cup 2010 to unfold? With more than its share of upsets, and wonderful rivalries being renewed when the final four teams take the field.

Group A, according to the New York-based bank, will see Mexico and South Africa advance, at the expense of an aging French side. This prediction alone will mean Goldman Sachs takes abuse in Paris.

Argentina and Nigeria will advance from Group B, with England and the U.S. coming out of Group C – a strong showing from the Americans would be a shock.

Group D is expected to be dominated by the Germans, with Goldman Sachs waffling on the second team to emerge, but assuming whoever does go forward is cannon fodder in the next round.

On the other side of the draw in this 32-team tournament, Holland and Denmark roll over Group E, while Italy and Slovakia advance from Group F.

Brazil and Portugal survive Group G – this tournament’s group of death, and Spain and Switzerland come out of Group H.

Out of this majestic assembly of nations, Goldman Sachs picks England, Argentina, Brazil and Spain to make the semi-finals, with Brazil winning it all.
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