May 22, 2002

Before you scoff at an American magazine's World Cup picks, bear in mind: People snickered when SI tabbed host France to win its first World Cup four years ago. This time around the French may be cofavorites (with Argentina) to repeat as champions by taking the final in Yokohama, Japan, but we'll cast our lot instead with Italy, a veteran group fully capable of cashing in on the kindest draw imaginable.

Grant Wahl
CNNSI