Honduras

Honduras are back at the World Cup, last seen in 1982 in Spain gallantly exiting the competition after drawing with the host nation and Northern Ireland before succumbing to defeat against Yugoslavia.

This year the Honduran’s thought yet more qualifying misery was on the cards until something incredible happened.

Jonathan Bornstein’s 94th minute equaliser for America against Costa Rica saw Honduras qualify for the World Cup and now Carlos Pavon, the aging goal machine will finally get his crack on the world stage alongside younger stars like Wilson Palacios.

Star Man - Wilson Palacios

The midfield enforcer for both Tottenham and Honduras, Palacios will be the man Honduras rely on to stop the opposing midfield. While he lacks in his passing ability it is his never say die attitude and constant running that appeals to Tottenham fans and those in his home nation.

With his pace, determination and ferocious tackles he will be out to cause havoc while letting the players around him get forward, however, considering he will come up against the incredible midfield talents of Xavi and Iniesta when Honduras play Spain in the group stages he could have his work cut out.

Coach - Reinaldo Rueda

A truly intellectual coach, Rueda has had no notable playing career to speak of but through a Physical Education degree and intensive coaching courses the Colombian tactician has lead both the Colombian senior and youth team and now Honduras to relative success

Rueda has also spent some of his life as university professor but his biggest test will come in South Africa in 2010.

In qualifying for the World Cup, Rueda ended Honduras' 28 year wait to compete again in the World Cup, their only previous tournament was 1982 in Spain, a side they face along with Chile and Switzerland in Group H.


One to Watch - Johnny Palacios

Another one of the famous Honduran Palacios brothers, Johnny, will be looking to step out of his siblings' shadows and this World Cup could see him do that.

Just like Wilson, Johnny loves to tackle and his assured performances for Olimpia in his home nation has seen interest come from Wigan who also had his brother Wilson before he was signed by Tottenham for £12m.

Odds to win - 400/1

GROUP STAGE FIXTURES