Uruguay star Godin tips up group rivals England, Italy to star at World Cup

Uruguay star Godin tips up group rivals England, Italy to star at World Cup

Published May. 29, 2014 11:06 a.m. ET

Uruguay defender Diego Godin says Group D rivals England are a team to be feared at this summer's World Cup.

The Atletico Madrid man, who scored in the UEFA Champions League final defeat by Real Madrid, has lauded Roy Hodgson's squad and emphasised the danger of the other two teams in the pool - Italy and Costa Rica.

Godin said: "We have been given a group with very strong teams.

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"England do not talk much but I think it is a very strong team with players going through a great time.

"They are at a high level and it is going to be very difficult.

"Italy are always a favourite to win in past World Cups and we faced them in the Confederations Cup.

"And Costa Rica is our debut match in Brazil, the first game is always difficult and it is a grand final because it is so important for the group."

On his reaction to the news star striker Luis Suarez may miss some of the tournament following knee surgery, the 28-year-old added: "I took it the same way we all took it, like a bucket of cold water.

"Nobody expected it but from the moment I contacted him I have been serene, because his message was upbeat and positive."

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