How it could be decided...

10 April 2012

England could be drawing lots tonight to see if they reach the last 16.

The nightmare scenario would be reached if they draw 2-2 with Slovenia and the USA and Algeria ends in a 0-0 stalemate.

We would then be tied with the Americans in second place and pot luck will decide if our men go through. But there are other outcomes...

1 - England beat Slovenia: We would qualify as Group C winners with five points and secure a meeting with the runners-up from Group D (possibly Germany) if we win by a greater margin than the USA beat Algeria or if that game ends in a draw. If USA draw, Slovenia advance as runners-up. If USA lose, goal difference would determine whether Slovenia or Algeria go through in second place. If the USA win, they would be level with England and goal difference would determine who progresses as group winners. If goal difference remains level, goals scored would decide who finishes top.

2 - England draw and USA win or lose: England head for the departures gate. Should USA win then they would finish level with Slovenia on five points and progress, should Bob Bradley's men lose then Algeria, with four points, would take the runners-up spot.

3 - England lose: We are on the plane home.

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