Bookies cut England World Cup odds

Bookmakers cut England's odds of winning the World Cup after a favourable draw today in South Africa.

Coral's David Stevens believes England are worthy second favourites to lift the trophy and expects a flurry of bets on the home nation.

"Patriotic punters will be delighted with the draw as, on paper at least, England should have few problems qualifying from their group, and although they will then face tougher tasks if they are to progress further, we regard Fabio Capello's men as leading contenders for glory in South Africa, an outcome that would cost the bookies millions," said Stevens.

Capello's team will face the USA, Algeria and Slovenia in their three Group C games.

Coral's cut England to 6-1 (from 13-2) to win the tournament, making them third favourites behind Spain (4-1) and Brazil (5-1).

However William Hill make England second favourites at 5-1, behind Spain (4-1).

Brazil have drifted in the betting after being drawn in the Group of Death with Portugal, Ivory Coast and North Korea.