‘Herminator’ tips on Argentine victory but supports Honduras
Skiing legend Hermann Maier and football hero Herbert Prohaska tip on Argentina to win the Football World Cup.Two-time Olympic gold medallist Maier, who announced his retirement in October, said today (Thurs) he expected the team managed by Diego Maradona to win the tournament which will be kicked off by a big ceremony tonight.The 38-year-old – who is nicknamed “The Herminator” – further revealed he supported Honduras. Asked who he expected to do better than expected, Maier named the national team of Australia.Prohaska, who will analyse the World Cup matches for Austrian broadcaster ORF, explained: “Argentina had difficulties qualifying for the tournament, but they are always amongst the favourites. And I furthermore think that it will be the World Cup of (Argentina midfielder) Lionel Messi.”The former AS Roma star said he did not rule out Paraguay and the one or other African team doing better than expected my many experts.Focus Institut researchers found out that, with 19 per cent, most Austrians expect five-time champions Brazil to win the tournament. Eleven per cent give Argentina the best chances, while 10 per cent tip on a triumph of the German team.Austrian national team manager Dietmar Constantini meanwhile said he regarded Euro2008 winners Spain who beat his team 5-1 in November as favourites to win the World Cup.The former Mainz 05 coach however stressed: “This depends on many aspects and factors, of course. England, Argentina, Brazil and a surprise team from Africa may also have good chances.”Constantini announced he will travel to South Africa to watch some matches.Asked when Austria who failed to qualify for the tournament after finishing their qualification group in third behind Serbia and France will again take part in a World Cup, he said: “I dont know but I hope soon.”Austria are currently in 68th place in the FIFA world ranking. The teams next fixture will be a friendly against Switzerland on 11 August.Euro2012 qualification action starts on 7 September when Austria clash with Kazakhstan. Germany, Belgium, Turkey and Azerbaijan are other group stage opponents for the team captained by Red Bull Salzburg striker Marc Janko.