Team Britain given tough football draw in Olympics

London: The British men's football team has been handed out a tough draw in the 2012 London Games.

Britain have been clubbed with African giants Senegal, reigning Copa America champions Uruguay and the United Arab Emirates in Group A.

"I wouldn't dismiss anyone in the group... with the addition of three over-age players, it can really contribute to a strong side," Britain coach Stuart Pearce was quoted as saying by The Sun.

"It will be tough, it always is, that's tournament football. We'll be looking forward to it and I'm sure our boys who are representing Great Britain will be looking forward to a tough tournament but an enjoyable one," said Pearce.

Spain, reigning World and European champions, are in a relatively easy group with Japan, Honduras and Morocco. Brazil will face competition from Egypt for the top spot in Group C. The top two teams from each group will progress to the knockout stages.

Following is the draw made Tuesday at Wembley, England for the group stage:

Men
Group A - Britain, Senegal, United Arab Emirates, Uruguay
Group B - Mexico, South Korea, Gabon, Switzerland
Group C - Brazil, Egypt, Belarus, New Zealand
Group D - Spain, Japan, Honduras, Morocco

Women
Group E - Britain, New Zealand, Cameroon, Brazil
Group F - Japan, Canada, Sweden, South Africa
Group G - United States, France, Colombia, DPR Korea

(IANS)