World Cup 2014 - The Favourites
This is why we love the World Cup - the world coming together as one:
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=731019560273971&set=vb.266828596693072&type=2&theater
In Brazil, nobody works for a month. Singapore should host the World Cup so you and I can rest for a month.
Mirror mirror on the wall, who are the favourites among them all? Firstly, what are the ingredients needed to be considered as favourites? (1) Host country - home ground advantage , (2) Climate - temperatures, altitude in the same continent, (3) Form - how have they been performing?, (4) Quality of the team - that should include strength in depth, (5) Tradition - historical record at the World Cup. My prediction as follows (Teams in bold to qualify).
I expect the opening matches to be slow affairs as teams get acclimatised and begin by sizing up one another. There could be many draws or small margin wins. By the second match, teams will know what kind of result they need to get through. For those have won twice, the last match has no meaning and they will keep their best players. You move on to the second round knock out stage, quarters, semis and final, a maximum of seven matches to be the world champions. You can be lucky or unlucky depending on who you will meet after the qualifying rounds. Let the games begin!
I expect the opening matches to be slow affairs as teams get acclimatised and begin by sizing up one another. There could be many draws or small margin wins. By the second match, teams will know what kind of result they need to get through. For those have won twice, the last match has no meaning and they will keep their best players. You move on to the second round knock out stage, quarters, semis and final, a maximum of seven matches to be the world champions. You can be lucky or unlucky depending on who you will meet after the qualifying rounds. Let the games begin!
Group A - Brazil, Mexico, Croatia, Cameroon
Brazil - The only nation that has taken part in every edition of the World Cup and the most decorated team who have won a record 5 trophies. You can see the 5 stars on the badge of their jersey. They have the advantage of home crowd support and climate on their side but such high expectation in itself can be a problem plus automatic qualification means lack of competition. While their trademark silky skills are still there, I do not think that they will be swashbuckling all out attacking. Scolari and his men ply their trade in Europe and modern Brazil are more tactical and embraced some European style in their play. They have the most expensive defence in Chelsea's Luis David just sold to PSG, Thiago Silva, Maxwell (both PSG). Marcelo (Real Madrid), Dante (Bayern Munich) and Daniel Alves (Barcelona) with goalie Julio Caesar means they have an experienced and top defence. Paulino (Spurs), Willian, Oscar, Ramires (Chelsea), Fernandinho (Man City) gives balance to midfield and Fred, Hulk and Neymar can create trouble at the other end. A strong contender and favourites.
(Brazil v Panama):
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=731763200199607&set=vb.266828596693072&type=2&theater
Mexico - First the bad news. Luis Montes suffered a broken leg and will miss the World Cup after scoring a wonderful goal against Ecuador in a friendly. Mexico almost did not make it as they needed USA's help when the USA beat Panama so that Mexico went through after a play-off. This means they have qualified 15 times in the World Cup. They will be spearheaded by Man Utd's Javier Hernandez, Guardo and Giovani Dos Santos. They are an unpredictable team capable of brilliance on the day but always exciting to watch with hot blooded displays. They can take the climate there better than Croatia.
Croatia - Needed a play-off win over Iceland to get through. They are no longer the force they were in 1998 when they qualified for the semis after knocking Germany out 3-0 and finished 3rd. They can be a match for anyone on their day but the last few World Cups were disappointing and did not even made it in 2010. When they were part of the Socialist state of Yugoslavia, they were known as the Brazil of Europe. Their most famous players now are captain Srna, EPL players Luca Modric, Kranjcar, Jelavic, Eduardo, Bundesliga players, Olic and Mandzukic. Mandzukic is worth a goal. If they outdo Mexico they go in.
Cameroon - They are a shadow of their previous glory. They brought attention to African football when they exited the group stage in 1982 undefeated. In 1990, they wrote into history when they had Argentina beaten in the opening match and became the first African side to reach the quarters with a dancing Roger Milla being their most famous player. Sameul Etoo (Chelsea, Alex Song and Assou-Ekotto are their biggest names now.
Brazil v Croatia: 2-1
Mexico v Cameroon: 1-0
Brazil v Mexico: 3-1
Cameroon v Croatia: 1-1
Cameroon v Brazil: 0-1
Croatia v Mexico: 1-1
Summary: Brazil will be too strong here. They probably do not need to go all out by the 3rd match. Mexico impressed me more in their game play than Croatia but if Croatia bring out something more they could surprise.
Brazil - The only nation that has taken part in every edition of the World Cup and the most decorated team who have won a record 5 trophies. You can see the 5 stars on the badge of their jersey. They have the advantage of home crowd support and climate on their side but such high expectation in itself can be a problem plus automatic qualification means lack of competition. While their trademark silky skills are still there, I do not think that they will be swashbuckling all out attacking. Scolari and his men ply their trade in Europe and modern Brazil are more tactical and embraced some European style in their play. They have the most expensive defence in Chelsea's Luis David just sold to PSG, Thiago Silva, Maxwell (both PSG). Marcelo (Real Madrid), Dante (Bayern Munich) and Daniel Alves (Barcelona) with goalie Julio Caesar means they have an experienced and top defence. Paulino (Spurs), Willian, Oscar, Ramires (Chelsea), Fernandinho (Man City) gives balance to midfield and Fred, Hulk and Neymar can create trouble at the other end. A strong contender and favourites.
(Brazil v Panama):
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=731763200199607&set=vb.266828596693072&type=2&theater
Mexico - First the bad news. Luis Montes suffered a broken leg and will miss the World Cup after scoring a wonderful goal against Ecuador in a friendly. Mexico almost did not make it as they needed USA's help when the USA beat Panama so that Mexico went through after a play-off. This means they have qualified 15 times in the World Cup. They will be spearheaded by Man Utd's Javier Hernandez, Guardo and Giovani Dos Santos. They are an unpredictable team capable of brilliance on the day but always exciting to watch with hot blooded displays. They can take the climate there better than Croatia.
(Mexico v Ecuardo):
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=730070330368894&set=vb.266828596693072&type=2&theater
Croatia - Needed a play-off win over Iceland to get through. They are no longer the force they were in 1998 when they qualified for the semis after knocking Germany out 3-0 and finished 3rd. They can be a match for anyone on their day but the last few World Cups were disappointing and did not even made it in 2010. When they were part of the Socialist state of Yugoslavia, they were known as the Brazil of Europe. Their most famous players now are captain Srna, EPL players Luca Modric, Kranjcar, Jelavic, Eduardo, Bundesliga players, Olic and Mandzukic. Mandzukic is worth a goal. If they outdo Mexico they go in.
Cameroon - They are a shadow of their previous glory. They brought attention to African football when they exited the group stage in 1982 undefeated. In 1990, they wrote into history when they had Argentina beaten in the opening match and became the first African side to reach the quarters with a dancing Roger Milla being their most famous player. Sameul Etoo (Chelsea, Alex Song and Assou-Ekotto are their biggest names now.
Brazil v Croatia: 2-1
Mexico v Cameroon: 1-0
Brazil v Mexico: 3-1
Cameroon v Croatia: 1-1
Cameroon v Brazil: 0-1
Croatia v Mexico: 1-1
Summary: Brazil will be too strong here. They probably do not need to go all out by the 3rd match. Mexico impressed me more in their game play than Croatia but if Croatia bring out something more they could surprise.
Group B - Spain, Netherlands, Chile, Australia
Spain - The defending champions Spain and world no.1 need no introduction with their "tiki-taka" soccer but since then more teams have learned to cope with them. They are still a top team with Xavi and Iniesta the fulcrum of tiki-taka but will sweat on the fitness of Spanish born Brazilian striker Diego Costa, the object of Chelsea's desire and who banged in 27 goals in La Liga. When you last saw Cesc Fabregas sitting on the bench, you could imagine their strength in depth. Consider their other midfield players - David Silva, Xavi Alonso, Koke, Santi Cazorla, Juan Mata. Frightening isn't it? Among the European teams, Spain will have the least problem handling the heat and humidity as they are from the Mediterranean. A strong contender and favourites.
Chile - They came in third in the South American qualifiers with their goal-scoring second only to Argentina but they have conceded too many goals - the 4th highest among nine teams. Strong in attack led by star Vidal, Alexis Sanchez and Eduardo Vargas but weak at the back. It will be close but defence may be their undoing. Still they have potential to better the Dutch.
Netherlands - The Oranje gave us Total Football in 1974 and then in the last Word Cup gave us Untotal Football! Van der Vaart is missing through injury but they still have van Persie but he just got injured in a recent friendly, Robben and Huntelaar but the strike force is ageing. With Strootman ruled out with injury it will be an uphill task for the Dutch. It will be Luis van Gaal's swansong before he leaves to join Man Utd. They topped qualification in Group D and scored 34 goals in 10 matches and conceded only 5 goals in an easy group but they do have a history of self-destruction. Now in this tough group can they survive? If they are placed second they get to meet Brazil in the second round. A close fight between Chile and them.
Australia - A proud sporting nation. Their strongest team once came with Mark Bosnic, Mark Viduka and Harry Kewell. It will be nice if the Socceroos could steal a win if not at least a draw in this strong group. Better luck next time. Their most famous players currently are former Everton midfielder Tim Cahill and Crystal Palace's Mile Jedinak. This group is too strong for the Socceroos.
Spain v Netherlands: 1-0
Chile v Australia: 2-1
Spain v Chile: 2-1
Australia v Netherlands: 0-2
Australia v Spain: 0-2
Netherlands v Chile: 1-1
Summary: Spain will have not too much problem here leaving the Dutch and Chileans to slug it out to see who gets to meet probably Brazil. Both may get the same points so better goal difference counts. If the Netherlands do not play up to form, Chile may just snatch it.
Spain - The defending champions Spain and world no.1 need no introduction with their "tiki-taka" soccer but since then more teams have learned to cope with them. They are still a top team with Xavi and Iniesta the fulcrum of tiki-taka but will sweat on the fitness of Spanish born Brazilian striker Diego Costa, the object of Chelsea's desire and who banged in 27 goals in La Liga. When you last saw Cesc Fabregas sitting on the bench, you could imagine their strength in depth. Consider their other midfield players - David Silva, Xavi Alonso, Koke, Santi Cazorla, Juan Mata. Frightening isn't it? Among the European teams, Spain will have the least problem handling the heat and humidity as they are from the Mediterranean. A strong contender and favourites.
Chile - They came in third in the South American qualifiers with their goal-scoring second only to Argentina but they have conceded too many goals - the 4th highest among nine teams. Strong in attack led by star Vidal, Alexis Sanchez and Eduardo Vargas but weak at the back. It will be close but defence may be their undoing. Still they have potential to better the Dutch.
Netherlands - The Oranje gave us Total Football in 1974 and then in the last Word Cup gave us Untotal Football! Van der Vaart is missing through injury but they still have van Persie but he just got injured in a recent friendly, Robben and Huntelaar but the strike force is ageing. With Strootman ruled out with injury it will be an uphill task for the Dutch. It will be Luis van Gaal's swansong before he leaves to join Man Utd. They topped qualification in Group D and scored 34 goals in 10 matches and conceded only 5 goals in an easy group but they do have a history of self-destruction. Now in this tough group can they survive? If they are placed second they get to meet Brazil in the second round. A close fight between Chile and them.
(Netherlands v Ghana):
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=730068163702444&set=vb.266828596693072&type=2&theater
Australia - A proud sporting nation. Their strongest team once came with Mark Bosnic, Mark Viduka and Harry Kewell. It will be nice if the Socceroos could steal a win if not at least a draw in this strong group. Better luck next time. Their most famous players currently are former Everton midfielder Tim Cahill and Crystal Palace's Mile Jedinak. This group is too strong for the Socceroos.
Spain v Netherlands: 1-0
Chile v Australia: 2-1
Spain v Chile: 2-1
Australia v Netherlands: 0-2
Australia v Spain: 0-2
Netherlands v Chile: 1-1
Summary: Spain will have not too much problem here leaving the Dutch and Chileans to slug it out to see who gets to meet probably Brazil. Both may get the same points so better goal difference counts. If the Netherlands do not play up to form, Chile may just snatch it.
Group C - Colombia, Japan, Ivory Coast, Greece
Colombia - Has the best goal difference after Argentina in qualification. Ranked 4th in FIFA ranking early part of the year. The sad news was the their top striker Radamel Falcao would be absent due to injury and this can be quite a setback. Watch out for Cristian Zapata, James Rodriguez, Teofilo Gutierrez and Jackson Martinez. Carlos Bacca plays for Sevilla and Adrian Ramos plays for Hertha Berlin.
Ivory Coast - Didier Zokora, Kolo Toure, Serge Aurier (DF), Yaya Toure, Cheick Tiote (MF), Salomon Kalou, Gervinho, Wilfreid Bony and old-man Man Mountain Didier Drogba (FW) are their main stars. Decent but ageing defence can be a problem, brilliant midfield especially Yaya Toure and a reasonably good attack. They are Africa's highest ranked nation. Dependence on Drogba at 36 is not a good sign. Unfortunately, the Ivory Coast as a team are bigger on paper than in reality.
Japan - The Japanese are a very good team. They have just steam-rolled England's opponents Costa Rica 3-1 in a warm up match. In 2010 they advanced through the group stage with wins over Denmark and Cameroon. Their best players are Keisuke Honda (AC Milan) and Shinji Kagawa (Man Utd). Japan plays a pressing game and they press up high. They lack a top scorer and the defence can be suspect. Last year they drew the Netherlands and beaten Belgium in friendlies and their top players are playing in Europe's top leagues. History favours the Japanese who made it through twice. The rest never made it past the first round.
Greece - Remember their European Championship triumph in 2004. They were made to go through a play-off to qualify. Basically, defensive minded and do have a great defence. Their star player is captain George Karagkounis. Will probably need all the luck to get through as they do not score enough.
Colombia v Greece: 1-0
Ivory Coast v Japan: 0-1
Colombia v Ivory Coast: 1-1
Japan v Greece: 1-1
Japan v Colombia: 2-2
Greece v Ivory Coast: 2-2
Summary: This group can be close. Colombia has Latin flair and guile, Greece, a stout defence, Ivory Coast have some quality but ageing players and the Japanese have teamwork.
Colombia - Has the best goal difference after Argentina in qualification. Ranked 4th in FIFA ranking early part of the year. The sad news was the their top striker Radamel Falcao would be absent due to injury and this can be quite a setback. Watch out for Cristian Zapata, James Rodriguez, Teofilo Gutierrez and Jackson Martinez. Carlos Bacca plays for Sevilla and Adrian Ramos plays for Hertha Berlin.
Ivory Coast - Didier Zokora, Kolo Toure, Serge Aurier (DF), Yaya Toure, Cheick Tiote (MF), Salomon Kalou, Gervinho, Wilfreid Bony and old-man Man Mountain Didier Drogba (FW) are their main stars. Decent but ageing defence can be a problem, brilliant midfield especially Yaya Toure and a reasonably good attack. They are Africa's highest ranked nation. Dependence on Drogba at 36 is not a good sign. Unfortunately, the Ivory Coast as a team are bigger on paper than in reality.
Japan - The Japanese are a very good team. They have just steam-rolled England's opponents Costa Rica 3-1 in a warm up match. In 2010 they advanced through the group stage with wins over Denmark and Cameroon. Their best players are Keisuke Honda (AC Milan) and Shinji Kagawa (Man Utd). Japan plays a pressing game and they press up high. They lack a top scorer and the defence can be suspect. Last year they drew the Netherlands and beaten Belgium in friendlies and their top players are playing in Europe's top leagues. History favours the Japanese who made it through twice. The rest never made it past the first round.
Greece - Remember their European Championship triumph in 2004. They were made to go through a play-off to qualify. Basically, defensive minded and do have a great defence. Their star player is captain George Karagkounis. Will probably need all the luck to get through as they do not score enough.
Colombia v Greece: 1-0
Ivory Coast v Japan: 0-1
Colombia v Ivory Coast: 1-1
Japan v Greece: 1-1
Japan v Colombia: 2-2
Greece v Ivory Coast: 2-2
Summary: This group can be close. Colombia has Latin flair and guile, Greece, a stout defence, Ivory Coast have some quality but ageing players and the Japanese have teamwork.
Group D - Italy, England, Uruguay, Costa Rica
Italy - The Azzurri are ranked 9th in the world and are 2012 European Runners-Up and are only behind Brazil in World Cup titles but were rock bottom of their group in 2010. Midfield maestro Andreas Pirlo will be a key man, he is possibly the best play-maker out there. Goalie Gianluigi Buffon is one of the world's best and highly experienced in world cups with the defence led by Giorgio Chiellini. Watch their top scorer Ciro Immobile (though he seems quite mobile). Unfortunately captain Montolivo is out injured.They are now not in the company of Brazil, Argentina, Germany or Spain. Prediction: Quarter-finals.
England - Banished the ghosts of Poland when they needed a win at Wembley to qualify but instead drew Poland and missed the WC in 1974. They topped the group after beating Poland at Wembley and was undefeated in qualification this time. The plus points are there is no expectation for this squad who are the second youngest squad in this world cup. Banking on the energy and fearlessness of youth may see them causing a few surprises, that is provided players like Gerrard, Henderson, Sterling, Sturridge, Hart, Cahill, Baines, Wilshere, Barkely, Lambert, Lallana, Chamberlain can continue their club form. Rooney have a last chance to be counted.
If I were Hodgson, I'll drop Rooney and Glen Johnson. Will Hodgson have the b*lls to do it? You can always bring him in later when things do not go as planned. Chamberlain and Wilshere were injured in the friendly against Ecuador. I think this is an experimental squad and may not make it past the round unless you use the element of surprise on the opponents.
Uruguay - Was very good in the 2010 World Cup and today have one of the world's deadliest strike force in Edison Cavani (PSG) and Luis Suarez (Liverpool) and do not forget Diego Forlan who was named best player in 2010 but at 35 is he still the same player he was? Can Suarez recover fully and be at his best? Their defence conceded plenty of goals during qualification and that is not good and they came through from a play-off after finishing 5th in S. America.
Costa Rica - Ranked 34th in the world. Joel Campbell is the only name familiar to me. The overwhelming underdogs. Cannon fodder.
Uruguay v Costa Rica: 3-2
England v Italy: 1-1
Uruguay v England: 2-2
Italy v Costa Rica: 2-0
Italy v Uruguay: 1-1
Costa Rica v England: 0-2
Summary - This is a very tough group. I rate Italy, England and Uruguay all equal in this round. They may even get the same results. If so, it depends on how they could plunder goals when playing Costa Rica. Italy have recovered from the 2010 debacle but no longer in the same league as Spain or Germany. England have the element of surprise with many younger players unknown to their opponents. I pick them ahead of Uruguay because Uruguay struggled to qualify over many matches.
Italy - The Azzurri are ranked 9th in the world and are 2012 European Runners-Up and are only behind Brazil in World Cup titles but were rock bottom of their group in 2010. Midfield maestro Andreas Pirlo will be a key man, he is possibly the best play-maker out there. Goalie Gianluigi Buffon is one of the world's best and highly experienced in world cups with the defence led by Giorgio Chiellini. Watch their top scorer Ciro Immobile (though he seems quite mobile). Unfortunately captain Montolivo is out injured.They are now not in the company of Brazil, Argentina, Germany or Spain. Prediction: Quarter-finals.
(Italy v Ireland):
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=730110910364836&set=vb.266828596693072&type=2&theater
England - Banished the ghosts of Poland when they needed a win at Wembley to qualify but instead drew Poland and missed the WC in 1974. They topped the group after beating Poland at Wembley and was undefeated in qualification this time. The plus points are there is no expectation for this squad who are the second youngest squad in this world cup. Banking on the energy and fearlessness of youth may see them causing a few surprises, that is provided players like Gerrard, Henderson, Sterling, Sturridge, Hart, Cahill, Baines, Wilshere, Barkely, Lambert, Lallana, Chamberlain can continue their club form. Rooney have a last chance to be counted.
If I were Hodgson, I'll drop Rooney and Glen Johnson. Will Hodgson have the b*lls to do it? You can always bring him in later when things do not go as planned. Chamberlain and Wilshere were injured in the friendly against Ecuador. I think this is an experimental squad and may not make it past the round unless you use the element of surprise on the opponents.
(England v Peru:)
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=729515353757725&set=vb.266828596693072&type=2&theater
Uruguay - Was very good in the 2010 World Cup and today have one of the world's deadliest strike force in Edison Cavani (PSG) and Luis Suarez (Liverpool) and do not forget Diego Forlan who was named best player in 2010 but at 35 is he still the same player he was? Can Suarez recover fully and be at his best? Their defence conceded plenty of goals during qualification and that is not good and they came through from a play-off after finishing 5th in S. America.
Costa Rica - Ranked 34th in the world. Joel Campbell is the only name familiar to me. The overwhelming underdogs. Cannon fodder.
Uruguay v Costa Rica: 3-2
England v Italy: 1-1
Uruguay v England: 2-2
Italy v Costa Rica: 2-0
Italy v Uruguay: 1-1
Costa Rica v England: 0-2
Summary - This is a very tough group. I rate Italy, England and Uruguay all equal in this round. They may even get the same results. If so, it depends on how they could plunder goals when playing Costa Rica. Italy have recovered from the 2010 debacle but no longer in the same league as Spain or Germany. England have the element of surprise with many younger players unknown to their opponents. I pick them ahead of Uruguay because Uruguay struggled to qualify over many matches.
Group E - France, Switzerland, Ecuador, Honduras
France - They were disastrous in the last edition. They are lucky to be in a weaker group. Their defence is decent, quality is in midfield and a great striker in Karim Benzema. The Swiss is their biggest test. If you look at the team members there is no excuse not to do well - Lloris at goal, at the back they have Koscielny, Sakho, Sagna, Debuchy and Evra. In the middle - Pogba, Cabaye, Sissiko and in attack - Benzema, Giroud, Loic Remy, Ribery. Prediction: Quarter-finals. Frank Ribery has just been ruled out due to injury, a huge blow!
Switzerland - The Swiss are ranked 8 in the world. They have a fine goalie in Benaglio. At the back, they have Philippe Senderos and Reto Ziegler. Two very fine midfielders Inler and Xherdan Shaqiri runs the engine room. Also a fine forward in Josip Drmic. They were the first team to beat Spain and that was in the last world cup. They are very disciplined and organised like clock-work with Swiss precision. Prediction: Second Round.
Ecuador - They are of unknown quality to me but they finished 4th in South American qualification. Their most famous player I know is Antonio Valencia who plays for Man Utd. They do have quick and physical forwards but their weakness is in a slow back line.
Honduras - Ranked 30 in the world. Some key players are Figueroa, Palacios, Delgado and Emilio Izaguirre.
Switzerland v Ecuador: 2-1
France v Honduras: 2-0
Switzerland v France: 2-2
Honduras v Ecuador: 1-1
Honduras v Switzerland: 1-2
Ecuador v France: 1-2
Summary - A relatively easier group but the Swiss could surprise because they are a team. If the French start fighting among themselves like the last time then a repeat of self destruction could occur.
France - They were disastrous in the last edition. They are lucky to be in a weaker group. Their defence is decent, quality is in midfield and a great striker in Karim Benzema. The Swiss is their biggest test. If you look at the team members there is no excuse not to do well - Lloris at goal, at the back they have Koscielny, Sakho, Sagna, Debuchy and Evra. In the middle - Pogba, Cabaye, Sissiko and in attack - Benzema, Giroud, Loic Remy, Ribery. Prediction: Quarter-finals. Frank Ribery has just been ruled out due to injury, a huge blow!
(France v Paraguay):
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=730709760304951&set=vb.266828596693072&type=2&theater
Switzerland - The Swiss are ranked 8 in the world. They have a fine goalie in Benaglio. At the back, they have Philippe Senderos and Reto Ziegler. Two very fine midfielders Inler and Xherdan Shaqiri runs the engine room. Also a fine forward in Josip Drmic. They were the first team to beat Spain and that was in the last world cup. They are very disciplined and organised like clock-work with Swiss precision. Prediction: Second Round.
Ecuador - They are of unknown quality to me but they finished 4th in South American qualification. Their most famous player I know is Antonio Valencia who plays for Man Utd. They do have quick and physical forwards but their weakness is in a slow back line.
Honduras - Ranked 30 in the world. Some key players are Figueroa, Palacios, Delgado and Emilio Izaguirre.
Switzerland v Ecuador: 2-1
France v Honduras: 2-0
Switzerland v France: 2-2
Honduras v Ecuador: 1-1
Honduras v Switzerland: 1-2
Ecuador v France: 1-2
Summary - A relatively easier group but the Swiss could surprise because they are a team. If the French start fighting among themselves like the last time then a repeat of self destruction could occur.
Group F - Argentina, Nigeria, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Iran
Argentina - Two time winner and one of the favourites for sure. Defence will be led by Pablo Zabaleta, Demichellis (Man City) with key midfielders Javier Mascherano and Angel di Maria while their strike force will create fear - Lionel Messi, Sergio Aguero, Lavezzi and Gonzalo Higuain. Should easily be of of the favourites. Messi alone is worth the ticket price but Argentina must play him in the correct role for him to be at his best and to shine. It is time for Messi to show the world at a world cup.
Nigeria - If you see the names you know some of them are playing in the EPL - Joseph Yobo, John Obi Mikel, Peter Odemwingie, Victor Moses and Shola Ameobi. Nigeria was a very strong team in past world cups. It will be a toss up between them and Bosnia-Herzegovina but their having more experience at this level may see them through.
Bosnia-Herzegovina - They are making their first appearance in the World Cup. Do you know Edin Dzeko (Man City) and Asmir Begovic (Stoke)? Another star player is Pjanic who plays for Roma. They are the fourth highest scorer in qualification. A good team but being the first time can they surprise the establishment?
Iran - Iran was once Asia's undisputed best team. Currently, I only know one player - Ashkan Dejagah who played for Fulham and has scored some wonderful goals. In their heyday, they were a match for other international teams.
Argentina v Bosnia-Herzegovina: 2-1
Iran v Nigeria: 1-2
Argentina v Iran: 3-1
Nigeria v Bosnia-Herzegovina: 1-1
Nigeria v Argentina:1-2
Bosnia-Herzegovina v Iran: 1-1
Summary - On paper, it is a breeze for the Argentines but they are facing physically strong teams so Argentina's ability to open up play and play in tight spaces will help them. Bosnia-Herzegovina can spoil the party. Nigeria is not as strong as they once were and Iran can use the platform to regain future development.
Argentina - Two time winner and one of the favourites for sure. Defence will be led by Pablo Zabaleta, Demichellis (Man City) with key midfielders Javier Mascherano and Angel di Maria while their strike force will create fear - Lionel Messi, Sergio Aguero, Lavezzi and Gonzalo Higuain. Should easily be of of the favourites. Messi alone is worth the ticket price but Argentina must play him in the correct role for him to be at his best and to shine. It is time for Messi to show the world at a world cup.
Nigeria - If you see the names you know some of them are playing in the EPL - Joseph Yobo, John Obi Mikel, Peter Odemwingie, Victor Moses and Shola Ameobi. Nigeria was a very strong team in past world cups. It will be a toss up between them and Bosnia-Herzegovina but their having more experience at this level may see them through.
Bosnia-Herzegovina - They are making their first appearance in the World Cup. Do you know Edin Dzeko (Man City) and Asmir Begovic (Stoke)? Another star player is Pjanic who plays for Roma. They are the fourth highest scorer in qualification. A good team but being the first time can they surprise the establishment?
(Bosnia-Herzegovina v Ivory Coast):
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=730066190369308&set=vb.266828596693072&type=2&theater
Iran - Iran was once Asia's undisputed best team. Currently, I only know one player - Ashkan Dejagah who played for Fulham and has scored some wonderful goals. In their heyday, they were a match for other international teams.
Argentina v Bosnia-Herzegovina: 2-1
Iran v Nigeria: 1-2
Argentina v Iran: 3-1
Nigeria v Bosnia-Herzegovina: 1-1
Nigeria v Argentina:1-2
Bosnia-Herzegovina v Iran: 1-1
Summary - On paper, it is a breeze for the Argentines but they are facing physically strong teams so Argentina's ability to open up play and play in tight spaces will help them. Bosnia-Herzegovina can spoil the party. Nigeria is not as strong as they once were and Iran can use the platform to regain future development.
Group G - Germany, Portugal, Ghana, USA
Germany - The Germans are World Cup machines. They have the best squad here with strength in depth and are no longer the boring team at some previous world cup. They were brilliant in 2010 and now experience has been added to them. They have one of the world's top goalie in Manuel Neuer. The Germans are one of the most successful international sides in history. They are flooded with talents. Philipp Lahm is one of the best defender in the world and helping at the back are Mats Hummel, Per Mertesacker. Theri midfield is one the best - Toni Kroos, Julian Draxler, Mario Goetze, Sami Khedira, Mesut Ozil and Bastian Schweinsteiger. Very potent in attack with Thomas Mueller, Lukas Podolski, Marco Reus, Miroslav Klose, Andre Schurrle. The coach has a headache just thinking who to play. Strong favourites!!
(Germany v Cameroon):
Portugal - The Portuguese have done very well in the World Cup and in the European Championship but the Golden Generation is gone and there is an over reliance on their best player Ronaldo who is presently nursing a minor injury. They are still a good team but struggled to qualify. Recent competition history favour them but if they perform like the qualifiers could get into trouble.
Ghana - Ranked 38 in the world. Star players are Michael Essien, Muntari, Asamoah, Boateng, Atsu and Ayew. They got to the quarters in 2010. Watch Atsu, he is called the African Messi. Ghana is one of the African teams other than Nigeria and Ivory Coast that have been a flag-bearer in the world cup and supplier of top players to European leagues. They can really surprise.
USA - Stars and Stripes forever and ranked 14 in the world. Believe you me. Goalies Tim Howard and Brad Guzan and Clinton Dempsey play in the EPL. Coach Klinsmann has done well but they are drawn in a very tough group. Like Ghana the USA could surprise and are by no means a walkover.
Germany v Portugal: 2-1
Ghana v USA: 1-1
Germany v Ghana: 2-0
USA v Portugal: 0-1
USA v Germany: 1-3
Portugal V Ghana: 2-2
Summary - It does not look simple and is actually a tough group, at least tougher than you think. Germany are clear favourites not just here but even for the title. Portugal has history that favours them. Ghana and the USA can throw the group open.
Germany - The Germans are World Cup machines. They have the best squad here with strength in depth and are no longer the boring team at some previous world cup. They were brilliant in 2010 and now experience has been added to them. They have one of the world's top goalie in Manuel Neuer. The Germans are one of the most successful international sides in history. They are flooded with talents. Philipp Lahm is one of the best defender in the world and helping at the back are Mats Hummel, Per Mertesacker. Theri midfield is one the best - Toni Kroos, Julian Draxler, Mario Goetze, Sami Khedira, Mesut Ozil and Bastian Schweinsteiger. Very potent in attack with Thomas Mueller, Lukas Podolski, Marco Reus, Miroslav Klose, Andre Schurrle. The coach has a headache just thinking who to play. Strong favourites!!
(Germany v Cameroon):
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=730634076979186&set=vb.266828596693072&type=2&theater
Portugal - The Portuguese have done very well in the World Cup and in the European Championship but the Golden Generation is gone and there is an over reliance on their best player Ronaldo who is presently nursing a minor injury. They are still a good team but struggled to qualify. Recent competition history favour them but if they perform like the qualifiers could get into trouble.
Ghana - Ranked 38 in the world. Star players are Michael Essien, Muntari, Asamoah, Boateng, Atsu and Ayew. They got to the quarters in 2010. Watch Atsu, he is called the African Messi. Ghana is one of the African teams other than Nigeria and Ivory Coast that have been a flag-bearer in the world cup and supplier of top players to European leagues. They can really surprise.
USA - Stars and Stripes forever and ranked 14 in the world. Believe you me. Goalies Tim Howard and Brad Guzan and Clinton Dempsey play in the EPL. Coach Klinsmann has done well but they are drawn in a very tough group. Like Ghana the USA could surprise and are by no means a walkover.
(USA v Turkey):
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=730709026971691&set=vb.266828596693072&type=2&theater
Germany v Portugal: 2-1
Ghana v USA: 1-1
Germany v Ghana: 2-0
USA v Portugal: 0-1
USA v Germany: 1-3
Portugal V Ghana: 2-2
Summary - It does not look simple and is actually a tough group, at least tougher than you think. Germany are clear favourites not just here but even for the title. Portugal has history that favours them. Ghana and the USA can throw the group open.
Group H - Belgium, Russia, Algeria, Korea
Belgium - Belgium have the best team they have ever assembled and is one of Europe's top soccer team ranked 12th in the world. They used to have some great players like Eric Gerets, Philippe Alberts, Michel Pred-homme and Enzo Scifo. Just take a look at their current team list: Simon Mignolet (liverpool), Thibaut Courtois (Chelsea), Daniel van Buyten, Vincent Kompany (Man City), Thomas Vermalen (Arsenal), Jan Vertoghen (Spurs), Fellaini (man Utd), Dembele/Chadli (Srpus), Eden Hazard/Romelu Lukaku (Chelsea), Adnan Junazaj (Man Utd) but they will miss the services of striker Christian Benteke who is out injured. They are my dark horse. Prediction: Quarter-finals. They are possibly the strongest dark horse in this tournament.
Russia - The entire Russian squad are based in Russia playing for Russian clubs and coached by Fabio Capello. That is a slight disadvantage. They may not have the necessary exposure to other European teams, style of play and the practice of engaging the rest. Still Russia is a good team but with captain Roman Shirokov ruled out with an injury they have suffered a big blow. Do not underestimate them because they failed to qualify for the last two World Cup. With an emphasis on defence, they qualified ahead of Portugal conceding only 5 goals in 10 matches. Their weakness is in scoring.
Algeria - Ranked 25th in world rankings, I remembered they held England 0-0 in 2010. The side is built on solid defensive organisation and then they hope to pinch goals.
Korea - The Koreans are now ranked 55 in the world. The current squad is not as strong as they used to be as they have become too direct and lack fluidity though they are always warriors. Their main man is Park Chu-Young who once was with Arsenal. They are by now seasoned World Cup campaigners and could trouble some teams.
Belgium - Belgium have the best team they have ever assembled and is one of Europe's top soccer team ranked 12th in the world. They used to have some great players like Eric Gerets, Philippe Alberts, Michel Pred-homme and Enzo Scifo. Just take a look at their current team list: Simon Mignolet (liverpool), Thibaut Courtois (Chelsea), Daniel van Buyten, Vincent Kompany (Man City), Thomas Vermalen (Arsenal), Jan Vertoghen (Spurs), Fellaini (man Utd), Dembele/Chadli (Srpus), Eden Hazard/Romelu Lukaku (Chelsea), Adnan Junazaj (Man Utd) but they will miss the services of striker Christian Benteke who is out injured. They are my dark horse. Prediction: Quarter-finals. They are possibly the strongest dark horse in this tournament.
(Sweden v Belgium):
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=730594010316526&set=vb.266828596693072&type=2&theater
Russia - The entire Russian squad are based in Russia playing for Russian clubs and coached by Fabio Capello. That is a slight disadvantage. They may not have the necessary exposure to other European teams, style of play and the practice of engaging the rest. Still Russia is a good team but with captain Roman Shirokov ruled out with an injury they have suffered a big blow. Do not underestimate them because they failed to qualify for the last two World Cup. With an emphasis on defence, they qualified ahead of Portugal conceding only 5 goals in 10 matches. Their weakness is in scoring.
(Norway v Russia):
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=730088550367072&set=vb.266828596693072&type=2&theater
Algeria - Ranked 25th in world rankings, I remembered they held England 0-0 in 2010. The side is built on solid defensive organisation and then they hope to pinch goals.
Korea - The Koreans are now ranked 55 in the world. The current squad is not as strong as they used to be as they have become too direct and lack fluidity though they are always warriors. Their main man is Park Chu-Young who once was with Arsenal. They are by now seasoned World Cup campaigners and could trouble some teams.
Belgium v Algeria: 2-0
Russia v Korea: 2-1
Belgium v Russia: 2-1
Korea v Algeria: 1-1
Korea v Belgium: 0-2
Algeria v Russia: 0-1
Summary - Belgium are ahead of the rest in the quality of their players but they are actually a young team. That is their weakness as well as their strength. They should finish ahead of the rest. Russia has done well under Fabio Capello but they need to watch the Koreans. North African Algeria's only chance is against Korea.
There you have it: From Group A - Brazil and Mexico. Group B - Spain and Netherlands. Group C - Colombia and Japan. Group D - Italy and England. Group E - France and Switzerland. Group F - Argentina and Nigeria. Group G - Germany and Portugal. Group H - Belgium and Russia. As the winner of each group will play the runner-up of the next group - the second knock out stage last 16 pairing will look like these:
Brazil v Netherlands (Match 49)
Spain v Mexico (Match 51)
Colombia v England (50)
Italy v Japan (52)
France v Nigeria (53)
Argentina v Switzerland (55)Russia v Korea: 2-1
Belgium v Russia: 2-1
Korea v Algeria: 1-1
Korea v Belgium: 0-2
Algeria v Russia: 0-1
Summary - Belgium are ahead of the rest in the quality of their players but they are actually a young team. That is their weakness as well as their strength. They should finish ahead of the rest. Russia has done well under Fabio Capello but they need to watch the Koreans. North African Algeria's only chance is against Korea.
There you have it: From Group A - Brazil and Mexico. Group B - Spain and Netherlands. Group C - Colombia and Japan. Group D - Italy and England. Group E - France and Switzerland. Group F - Argentina and Nigeria. Group G - Germany and Portugal. Group H - Belgium and Russia. As the winner of each group will play the runner-up of the next group - the second knock out stage last 16 pairing will look like these:
Brazil v Netherlands (Match 49)
Spain v Mexico (Match 51)
Colombia v England (50)
Italy v Japan (52)
France v Nigeria (53)
Germany v Russia (54)
Belgium v Portugal (56)
For me Brazil, Argentina, Spain and Germany are the hot favourites. Let us imagine the quarter-finals (last 8) could look like these:
Brazil v England (57)
France v Germany (58)
Spain v Italy (59)
Argentina v Belgium (60)
Therefore, the semi-finalists are what I have pointed out as favourites. My favourites picked are all here.
Brazil v Germany
Spain v Argentina
One of these will be crowned champions of the world! I shall review it once the kick off begins and see how long I will last in this World Cup.
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