Fabio Capello has admitted England will need luck on their side if they are going to claim the World Cup next summer in South Africa.
The England manager has overseen a remarkable run in qualifying for the competition, unbeaten in seven games and now just one win away from the finals.
But the resurgence under the Italian has once again seen hopes rise that England could conquer all at next summer’s tournament.
Capello insists his team are capable of beating anyone, but says preparation alone cannot carry them to World Cup glory.
"I always said we can play against everyone. That is the confidence I have in this team," he said.
"But to win something you need luck. Look at Chelsea against Barcelona. Shots hit the post and then go in or stay out. The margins are very fine."
Capello admits that England have made giant strides since he took over from Steve McLaren following the country’s failure to qualify for the European Championships in 2008.
"I always remember that first game against Switzerland," recalled Capello of his debut.
"During training the players were like now. Then when we played I thought, 'These are not the same players'.
"We had to speak about it all the time, in every meeting. Why when you play with the national team don't you play the same, why?
"It is just about taking very little steps but that fear is starting to go."