World Cup 2014: Five scenarios for Italy, England in 'Group of Death'

Mario Balotelli can be the hero Roy Hodgson needs. Although not the one that the Queen would fancy.

After England lost to Uruguay Thursday, Balotelli tweeted - If we beat Costa Rica I want a kiss, obviously on the cheek, from the UK Queen

The England coach's knight in blue armour. When Italy take on Costa Rica all of England, barring the Queen, will be rooting for the Azzuri.

Following Luis Suarez's brace, England is on the brink of a deep, dark abyss. They face the very likely scenario of returning home after the group stage itself, stumbling at the very first hurdle.

English fans, however, can hope for a miracle. Because a miracle is what it will be if it happens.

Scenario One: Italy wins both games

England needs Italy to beat both Costa Rica and Uruguay, handsomely, to qualify. If the Italians can go through as unbeaten group leaders then they will sit pretty at the top with nine points, while both Uruguay and Costa Rica will be on 3 each. England would then have an outside chance if it can register a big win against Costa Rica. Possibly all three- Costa Rica, England and Uruguay- could then be tied on 3 points and it would come down to goal difference.

Scenario Two: Italy wins one, loses one

This is the worst case scenario in the group of death. It would mean that there could be a scenario where all three - Italy, Costa Rica and Uruguay- could end up with 6 points. It would come down to goal difference for the top two teams. England will be out.

Scenario Three: Italy draws one, loses or wins the other

A draw would further complicate matters. It would eliminate England, and could leave two teams on four points. Again goal difference would come into play for the second spot from the group.

Scenario Four: Italy draws both

England would be sent home. Again two teams could be tied on four points and it would come down to goal difference.

Scenario Five: Italy loses both

Both Italy and England will be eliminated and Costa Rica and Uruguay could qualify. Goal difference will determine first and second position.

Clearly, anything can happen in this group. And courtesy its win against Uruguay, Costa Rica joins Italy as favourites to qualify for the knock out stages. Unless, Suarez.