England down to 11/2 for World Cup after Egypt win

England’s second half demolition of three-times Africa Cup of Nations winners Egypt in a friendly match at Wembley last night has seen bookies lower the odds on Capello’s side from 6/1 to 11/2.

The English remain third favourites to lift the World Cup, with Euro 2008 winners Spain leading the field at 9/2, followed by Brazil – who beat Ireland 2-0 at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday night - at 5/1.

Fresh from a 1-0 victory over World Cup goliaths Germany, Argentina are next in the betting at 9/1. The Germans are 14/1 shots, as are Holland, with World Cup holders Italy just ahead of them both at 12/1. France, 2-0 losers at home to Spain yesterday, are 16/1 across the board.

The highest ranked African team is the Ivory Coast at 25/1, with hosts South Africa at 125/1. Asia’s greatest hope is perceived to be South Korea at 250/1, while the rank outsiders of the tournament are New Zealand, with some bookmakers offering 2,500/1 about the All Whites.