What to Expect from Saturday Jun, 28 2014 World Cup Matches

Saturday Jun, 28 2014 World Cup Matches

Brazil Vs. Chile

No pun intended, but Brazil should not expect an easy game from Chile. The Chileans defeated the defending Champions, Spain and will look to ruin Brazil's party at Rio as well. Neymar and co. have it all to do. The huge expectations of their fans could either be a burden, if the core line remains goal-less for long periods in the match, or a shot in the arm, if Brazil takes an early lead.

Prediction: Brazil 2 vs. Chile 1

Man to watch: Neymar

Columbia 1 Vs Uruguay 1 

This is a match that could be decided by penalty shoot-out. Uruguay will be without their enigmatic leader, Luis Suarez. From the Italy game, Uruguay have improved from the shock result of losing to Costa Rica. The Columbians are a different proposition. They won their group, with maximum 9 points and are a very balanced side. But Uruguay left a group of Death of some sorts. That experience will only make them stronger opponents.

Prediction: Columbia 1 Vs Uruguay 1

BEST IX of the First Round of the World Cup.

After the first round of matches, half of the contingent to tournament will advance to the next round, while the rest will be on their way home. Surprisingly, amongst those going home are Spain- the defending World Champions and four time winners, Italy. Costa Rica and Greece, less fancied teams are amongst those that are in the round of 16. From the second round onwards, is a series of elimination matches, with all to play for. No more tie games. It's win or you go home. As simple as that. Every stage in a tournament such as this, has its fair share of Heroes and Villains. This article will be highlighting the heroes. It is a more positive story to write.

1. Vincent Enyeama(Nigeria) - Goal Keeper.

Kept two clean sheets in Nigeria first games against Iran and Bosnia. His nervous smiles during their game against Argentina belied the fear of facing the mercurial Messi. This allowed 3 goals to go past an otherwise immaculate goalkeeper. Winning and losing lies in the finer details and Vincent has made the most saves by any goalkeeper in this competition. This stats might be helped by the fact that he is the last resort behind a not-so-strong Nigerian defense. And what a pillar he has been for them.

2. Silva Thiago (Brazil)

Buoyed by their vociferous home fans, the PSG man is replicating the form that made him the most expensive defender in the world.

3.Sakho Mamadou (France) - Defender

Liverpool's Sakho has quietly gone about his business in this world cup. The French captain is solid in defense and has provided the much need strong foundation for France to build their world cup ambitions on. He is amongst the Top 10 players in this world cup with a Castrol index of 9.47.

4. Van BuyTen (Belgium) - Defender

The Belgians have been very solid so far. Nothing to fancy except for the occasional forays of Eden Hazard. One man responsible in holding the fort at the back is Van BuyTen. With a Castrol index of 9.58, he has done so effectively.

5.Javier Mascherano (Argentina) - Midfielder

Barcelona play with a false nine system in attack. Some might also believe that they also use a false five in defense. At Barcelona, Mascherano is a centre-back despite his small statue. But with his national team, he plays his favored destroyer role in midfield protecting his back-line. The all-action midfielder is probably the only decent defender in a vulnerable Argentine defense.

6. Bradley (U.S.A) - Midfielder

Is the Top runner in the tournament, covering the distance of 38019 meters. The American is a 

battler in midfield. and his tenacious,  never-say-die attitude will certainly help the Americans move forward.

7. Robben Arjen (Netherlands) - Midfielder.

We will place Robben in an advanced attacking role. His speed and guile has been defenders' nightmare. The Spanish found out the hard way. With his deadly left foot, Robben tortured Spain in that group's opening match that sent shock waves around the world.

8. Andrea Pirlo (Italy) - Midfielder

Italy's midfield mastero is a different sort of defensive midfielder. He is crafter, dictating the pace of the game. Had Uruguay not knocked, Italy out of the world cup, Pirlo 's precision passing and deft touches would still be on show.

9. Thomas Muller (Germany) - Forward.

Muller is a poacher extraordinaire. With four goals in the tournament so far and a hat-trick against Portugal as well as the winner against U.S.A.

10. Messi (Argentina ) - Forward

Four goals in the tournament so far. Could he single-handedly win this tournament for his home country like Maradona did in '86? His team have not played well and depend on him to make the difference. He does so in flying colors.

11. Neymar (Brazil) -Forward 

The poster boy of the tournament has certainly lived up to expectations as well. With four goals in the bag so far and the hopes of an entire nation on his shoulders, Neymar is making light work of the pressure. So far he has shone with lower ranked teams. Lets see if he can replicate his magic against stronger teams as Brazil advances in the competition.

What to Expect From Thursday Jun, 26 2014 World Cup Matches

Thursday Jun, 26 2014 World Cup Matches

Portugal Vs. Ghana

The vote of no confidence, the current world footballer of the year gave his team, will spur them to show that they are no average team. Ghana will feel the brunt of Ronaldo's teammates' fury. Not that Ghana isn't a good enough team, in fact on the contrary, last edition's quarter-finalists are excellent. But they suffer from the same defensive naiveté that affects African teams at this level. Ghana's eye-ball-to-eyeball performance against the Germans, assures them that they can compete with the very best.

Prediction: Portugal 2 vs. Ghana 1

Man to watch: Gyan

Germany Vs U.S.A 

Team U.S.A has developed the penchant of exceeding expectations and are hugely underrated because of the perceptions that their citizens do not take soccer; as it's called, seriously. Millions of dollars have gone into building the soccer culture in the homeland. And with South Americans sipping through the border to reinforce their league, the MLS is as competitive as any in Europe. The Germany will want closure and avoid any embarrassment which will dent their mystique of invincibility. Besides they remain one realistic hope of Europe winning the tournament in South American soil for the first time. They may abandon the false nine system and revert to the trusted arrow head in attack with Klose at the tip. Either way, Team U.S.A remains resilient especially with Tim Howard in goal.

Prediction: Germany 1 Vs U.S.A 1

South Korea Vs Belgium

No disrespect to the Koreans but Belgium will win this. Eden Hazard will like to share in the adulation currently meted out to Messi and Neymar. 

Prediction: South Korea 1 Vs Belgium 3

Algeria Vs Russia

The Algerians have a best chance of the African teams, of   joining Nigeria as the second African team to progress to the second round. But they will face a stiff test in the Russians. Not that the Russians have overly impressed. The Capello-tutored don't score many goals and have to win this game.Sadly, they won't. 

Prediction: Algeria 2 vs. Russia 1

What To Expect From Wednesday Jun, 25 2014 World Cup Matches

Wednesday Jun, 25 2014 World Cup Matches

Nigeria Vs. Argentina

This match has become a regular fixture at the world cup since 1994. Every time these two teams play, Argentina wins it, by a goal margin. With Argentina already through to the round of 16, maybe they will rest key players. The Nigerians need just a draw to qualify. As we saw in the games involving Italy and Cote d' Ivoire, playing for a draw could have dire results. The Super Eagles showed great organization in their last match. An upset today would not be beyond them.

Prediction: Nigeria 1 vs. Argentina 1

Bosnia-Herzegozenia Vs Iran 

Iran will finally come out attacking because they have to win. While the Bosnia are already out of the tournament. But will want to leave with a win. An open entertaining game is in stall, something Iran has avoided so far. We will see why.

Prediction: Bosnia-Herzegozenia 2 Vs Iran 0

Honduras Vs Switzerland

After the hammering, the Swiss got from the French, a strong response is all that is needed to make the next round. Honduras although out of it, would not want to be the wiping boy of the group. The Swiss have it, all to do. They require a favor from their European neighbors, France, to inflict a loss on Ecuador, as well as coming out unscratched by the means of  getting either a draw or a win against their opponents, Honduras.

Prediction: Honduras 1 Vs Switzerland 2

Ecuador Vs France

Both matches in Group E are delicately balanced. France is guaranteed a place in the next round but neither Switzerland or Ecuador can advance until the last whistle is blown.  Ecuador are a good team and will be a sterner test for the French than the Swiss. France is enjoying a resurgence in this world cup unlike the horror show in 2010. And in Benzema, they have a world class striker that could carry them all the way to glory.

Prediction: Ecuador 1 vs. France 1

LeBron Opts To Be A Free Agent.

LeBron James' agent, Rich Paul, has informed the Miami Heat that James will exercise his early termination option and become an unrestricted free agent on July 1.

Grantland's Zach Lowe breaks down everywhere LeBron James could possibly land, as well as the Heat's remaining options. Story

Opting out does not mean that James has decided to leave the Heat, sources said.

James, a four-time NBA MVP, had until June 30 to decide whether to opt out of the final two years of his contract with the Heat. He was scheduled to make $20 million next season and had two years and about $42.7 million remaining on his deal.

After Miami's season-ending loss to the San Antonio Spurs in Game 5 of the NBA Finals, James told reporters he would take a vacation with his family before considering his contract options.

James did indicate that he welcomed the opportunity to become a free agent and have the same level of flexibility he was afforded in 2010, when he signed with Miami after spending his first seven years in Cleveland.

"Being able to have flexibility as a professional, anyone, that's what we all would like," James said last week. "That's in any sport, for a football player, a baseball player, a basketball player, to have flexibility and be able to control your future or your present. I have a position to be able to do that. ... There's a lot of times that you're not in control of your future as a professional."

ESPN NBA Insider Brian Windhorst covers LeBron James' choice to opt out of his contract, whether Carmelo Anthony and James will team up and the Instagram post by James' wife.

In his four seasons in Miami, the Heat have gone to the NBA Finals four times, winning two championships. James could join Shaquille O'Neal as the only players in NBA history to lead their team in total points scored in the NBA Finals and then play for a different team to start the following season, according to Elias Sports Bureau. O'Neal played for the 2003-04 Los Angeles Lakers, who lost to the Detroit Pistons in the NBA Finals, and then was traded to the Heat in the offseason.

If James leaves, he would also be leaving a historic opportunity on the table. Only one team in NBA history has appeared in at least five consecutive NBA Finals, the Boston Celtics, which reached 10 straight from 1957-66.

Source: http://espn.go.com/nba/truehoop/miamiheat/story/_/id/11127329/lebron-james-opt-contract-miami-heat

What to Expect from Tuesday Jun, 24 2014 World Cup Matches

Tuesday Jun, 24 2014 World Cup Matches

Italy Vs. Uruguay

A draw will suit the Italians while the Uruguayans must win. Therefore the stage is set for an explosive march. As usual, the italians will approach the game as a chess match, lying deep in wait for Uruguay's surges, to catch them on the break. The key to beating any italian team, is to score first. Uruguay have the firepower to do that in their talisman, Luis Suarez. But should the italians be the one to take the lead, it will difficult.

Prediction: Italy 2 vs. Uruguay 1
Man to Watch: Luis Suarez

England Vs Costa Rica

A very disappointed England will want to win this game for their fans. This world cup was coined as their year, due to the promising young talents in their ranks. Sadly it was not meant to be, as they fell to back-to-back defeats to Italy and Uruguay respectively. Doggy defending cost them dearly in this world cup. But defending starts from the forward line. One might argue that starting with four attackers was not the best strategy. Anyways, they will face a Costa Rican side that has qualified for the next round and have little to play for. 

Prediction: England  1 vs. Costa Rica 0

Japan Vs Columbia

The Columbians are a very slick side that showed that they can compete a very balanced group. They showed a lot of class and maturity in their last match against the Ivorians. Against the Japanese, it should be same 'ol, same 'ol.

Prediction: Japan 0 vs. Columbia 2

Cote 'd Ivoire Vs Greece

Greece is renown for their counter-attacking play and dogged defending. The thing about counter-attacking play is that it requires a competent goal-poacher for completeness. Greece don't score goals therefore it must be back to formula. On the other hand, the Ivoirans are an assembled of the best talents Africa has on offer. Over previous tournaments, they have flattered to deceive. Never going beyond the group stage. A situation, they blamed on the strength of the group. Now in an easy group, they need a point to advance. And they will get more than that.

Prediction: Cote 'd Ivoire 2 vs. Greece 1

5 Things We Learn From The Nigeria Vs Bosnia-Herzegovina Match.

Nigeria defeated the Bosnians by a lone goal in a must win game , to have a very good chance of qualifying to the second round. It was a must win match because the statistics does not favor the Super Eagles in their battles against the Argentines. Any result other than a win would have put the Nigerian team in a precarious situation because they would have to then win their match against Argentina. Facing the likes of Messi is not a very good preposition. However, the Super Eagles were much improved and deserved their victory over the Bosnians who looked a bit jaded. There were a few lessons learnt in the match.

1. Organization Trumps Individual Brilliance.

Prelude to the match, we warned that the winner would be the team that had the better organization. The Super Eagles heeded the advice and showed great team work and organization in their game. It was vast improvement from the individualistic, uncoordinated raids seen against Iran.  Gone were the numerous solo runs that went nowhere which was supplanted by quick combinational play. Had the trio of Musa,Emenike and Osaze been more ruthless with their finishing, the scores might have been higher.

2. Heat will be A Factor
Throughout the course of the tournament, the conditions have been harsh. So it was interesting to see the Super Eagles adjust their tempo according. Over the course of the tournament, the handlers have to consider the conditions, a friend and not foe. And use them against their opponents. 

3.Synergy In Attack
Many-a-times during the match, the strikers preferred to try for goal when there were better positioned team mates waiting for a pass.
It is understandable that scoring in the world cup is a highlight in a player's career, but it is better to win games than attain individual glory and lose. The whole is greater than the sum of its parts.

4. A Chain is only as Strong as its Weakest Link
Micheal Babatunde, Yobo Joseph - are pretty good players but they don't inspire a lot of confidence. Yobo's situation is more interesting because he was a very good defender at one point in his super eagles career and like fine wine, everyone felt his game would improve as his aged. Like it did for the Cannovaro's and Maldini's of this world. Sadly, this has not been the case. He remains Nigeria's weak link in defense while Micheal seems to be very confused in possession at the other end. Strengthening the weak links is imperative for continued success.

5. Notable Mentions
Mikel and Onazi, combined well, just like in their first match against Iran, although they were more adventurous this time. The work ethic and composed play exhibited by Osaze is worth mentioning. He has really matured as a player. If this attitude is kept, there is no reason why the Super Eagles will not fly high in Brazil,

What to expect from Monday Jun, 23 2014 World Cup Matches.

Monday Jun, 23 2014 World Cup Matches

Netherlands Vs. Chile

With both sides through to the next round, this match would decide who tops the group. The Dutch have shown that they could be favorites for the crown and will rest their "fragile" stars such as Robben and Van Persie. In a group match that most expected, Spain and someone else to qualify out of, Chile has shredded the form books and shown that they can compete toe to toe with any team. I expect that trend to continue. At least for now.

Prediction: Netherlands 1 vs. Chile 2

Australia Vs Spain

If everything had gone according to plan, Spain would probably be resting their main players for the next round and playing their substitute bench against the Aussies. But this is not the case, it is a game between the group losers and they will both be playing for pride. No team has had its pride hurt more than the defending champions. 
Australia on the other had, will want a win and the scalp of the most dominant team in international football since 2008. Expect the game to be very open and fierce, as both teams have nothing to lose.

Prediction: Australia  1 vs. Spain 3

Cameroon Vs Portugal

Anytime Brazil play an African team at the world cup, with a few exceptions (Algeria in '86 and Cote d'Ivoire in '2006), the results end 3-0.  The performance of the Cameroonian team so far in the tournament, could suggest that the scoreline might be more, this time around. With the vociferous pro-brazil crowd calling for "blood", 3-0 might just be a humane result against a very poor Cameroonian side.

Prediction: Cameroon 0 vs. Brazil 3

Croatia Vs Mexico

The Croats were ruthless against Cameroun in their last match. Mexico will be different proposition, having heroically held the Brazilians to a goal-less draw in front of their home fans. But its the Croats that need the maximum points in order to progress. And should they score first, Mexico might be going home. Luckily, it isn't far away.

Prediction: Croatia 2 vs. Mexico 1

What to Expect from Sunday Jun, 22 2014 World Cup Matches.

Sunday Jun, 22 2014 World Cup Matches

Belgium Vs. Russia

South America seems to be a happy hunting ground for the Belgian side, if their exploits in Mexico '86 was anything to go by. They have also started their world cup champaign in Brazil, well with a 2-1 victory over the Algerians. In that match, the Belgians were made to sweat over maximum points. Against their fellow European counterparts, we might see a more open,entertaining game. Especially, with the Russians desperate for a win after their draw against South Koreas. The Capello tutored side have not looked convincing but will struggle to cope with a hugely talented Belgian with the like of Eden Hazard. But in the end, a draw will be just enough for both sides.

Prediction: Belgium 2 vs. Russia 2

South Korea Vs Algeria

South Korea impressed in their first game against the Russians. With the latter, forcing the draw. It would be nice to see another African team go through to the second round. But sentiments are just what they are- sentiments. To win and progress, the Algerians must defend astutely, and play with much better co-ordination than they did against Belgium. 

Prediction: South Korea  2 vs. Algeria 3

U.S.A Vs Portugal

The U.S.A have to win this game in order to progress to the second round. In must win games, one does not have to play to win it.  The key is to have a balance and not to go all-out attack. A draw in the match could suffice for the Americans. That is if Portugal has anything to say about it. The Portuguese might have been pulverized by the Germans in their last match, but the result more than faltered the Germans if anything else. As much of the game, Portugal were playing with 10 men. Anyways, they will want to prove to the world that the match was a one-off. They might just do that, with a win over team U.S.A.

Prediction: U.S.A 1 vs. Portugal 2

What to expect from June 21 World Cup Matches

Saturday Jun, 21 2014 World Cup Matches

Argentina Vs. Iran

As obstinate as Iran's defense was against Nigeria, it is hard to see  it not breached against the mighty might of Lionel Messi and Co. The Argentines did not look so convincing against Bosnia-Herzegovina.  That match needed the mercurial skills of four-time world footballer of year , Lionel Messi, to light up. An early goal by the Argentina would see the floodgates open. Then again if the game remains scoreless at the 45 min mark, it could be anyone's game. The former is more likely to be the case.

Prediction: Argentina 3 vs. Iran 0

Germany Vs Ghana

The Germans were utterly ruthless in their first match against Portugal. Anyone expecting another free scoring repetition, might be sadly mistaken. The Ghanaians are a dogged side and will offer stiffer opposition that a Portuguese that spent majority of that match, playing with a man down. Set pieces - Germany's bread and butter of many World cups, might just be the foil to unlocked the Ghanaians, who are hoping not be the whipping boys in the Group of Death.

Prediction: Germany  3 vs. Ghana 1

Nigeria Vs Bosnia-Herzegovina

If the Super Eagles can quicken their play in their opponents' final third, they could have a chance. Their performance against Iran was very bad to say the least whereas Bosnia really gave a good account of themselves against Argentina. The Bosnia will believe that this is a game they should win. But don't count the African Champions out yet. They have a way of raising their game in the most unlikely of circumstances. The winner of this game is one with the better organization; the Bosnians have it.

Prediction: Nigeria 1 vs. Bosnia-Herzegovina 2

MTN Football Scholar: Participants thrilled by the prospect of combining education and football

Students of the King’s College, Lagos registering for MTN Football Scholar Season 4 at the Lagos Audition, National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.

Hundreds of youngsters that thronged the centres of the audition in the ongoing MTN Football Scholar season 4 were all ecstatic about the uniqueness of the initiative.

The nationwide audition which started in Port Harcourt before taking place in other cities of Calabar, Akure, Enugu and Abuja, ended in Lagos over the weekend. The kids were unanimous in their declaration that the idea of combining schooling with active football is fantastic.

The audition which formed the process of securing tickets into the camp of this year’s edition witnessed display of excellent football skills and talents by the youngsters. Apart from the well-tested and experience coaches that drilled the boys, prominent ex-internationals were also on ground at the centres to motivate them.


read more at the source:

Magnus Carlsen is Triple World Champion

On Friday Magnus Carlsen also won the FIDE World Blitz Championship in Dubai and so the Norwegian now holds the crown in three different time controls. He finished on 17.0/21, a full point more than Ian Nepomniachtchi & Hikaru Nakamura, who finished two points ahead of the rest of the pack

source: ChessVibes.com

What To Expect From Friday's Matches

Friday Jun, 20 2014 World Cup Matches

Italy Vs. Costa Rica

After the stunning display, the Costa Ricans put up against Uruguay, few will bet against them. 

The Italians usually  have difficulty breaking down smaller teams or more respectable, the less favored teams. These teams usually bunker up and tried to catch their opponents on the break. The same  strategy the italians employ.  Don't see Costa Rica or Italy risk losing when they can both play for a draw, ensuring their qualification to the next round.

Prediction: Italy 0 vs. Costa Rica 0

Switzerland Vs France

Benzema will be brimming with confidence after his faux-hattrick against Honduras. The Swiss however, will be well aware of his threat. And might just be able to cope. Its funny how the French have really improved after their dismal performance in 2010. 

Prediction: Switzerland 1 vs. France 1

Honduras Vs Ecuador

This match promises to be a very open game as both teams look for maximum three points.

Prediction: Honduras 2 vs. Ecuador 3

5 Things We Learnt from Nigeria Vs Iran

In a tournament, full of goals, it was disappointing is a match go goal-less. If Super Eagles and Iran were pugilists, maybe the match might have been called off in round 4. That was how frustrating it was. The Iranians parked the bus and hoping against hope that they could get one on the break. They almost one did, via a corner kick. If not for the acrobatics of Vincent Enyeama- the mercurial Nigerian goal keeper, the effort, would have been the smash and grab, the Iranians had set-up to get. Sadly, The Super Eagles, a team previously renown in its glory days as a fearless attacking side, lacked the quality,tactics and personnel to break the iranians down. Lets see if there are lessons to be learnt from the match.

1. Keshi Keeps Ignoring the Startling Obvious to his detriment.

Ambrose is not a right-back . Every one can see. His crosses are so poor to say the least. He is much better as a centre-back. It's time to move him to his natural position in the centre and plug Azeez or anyone else that has good delivery as right back or play with 3 centre backs. The Super Eagles are too slow in the final third. It is just so plain to see. Yet nothing gets done to remedy this. 

2. Emenike needs a Partner.

Like Batman, Emenike misses his robin, Ideye Brown. Since it's too late to bring him in. Keshi needs to improvise with someone else. Maybe Osaze could suffice. His contribution in the match was very good though it could also be said that much of the iranian resistance had wilted away in the Brazilian scorching heat by the time he had come in as a second half substitute. Either way, a creative side kick should partner him upfront.

3. Forget Dribbling, Coordination

This is the world cup! Very few teams are going to allow a player waltz their through their defenses. For goodness sake, speed up the play in the final third. Also it helps conserve energy in the very hot atmosphere in Brazil. Moses, Musa and Emenike start their runs from their half and when they get the opponents final third get tired and their legs give in. 

4. Set Pieces 

The ability to convert set pieces is one of the big factors that differentiate world-beaters from lesser teams. For example, The U.S.A won their game against Ghana by converting a corner kick as well as Italy in their match against England. But anytime, Nigeria have dead ball situations, nothing becomes of it. In fact, it is wasted. 

5. There are Positives.

There were positives to take away from such a poor performance.

The Super Eagles improved defensively, Mikel and Onazi played well together in midfield. If it had been an open game, maybe we could have seen a better performance from the Super Eagles. In future games, hopefully against Bosnia, there will be a willingness for both teams to have a go at each other. 

So far so good. 

San Antonio Spurs are NBA Champions 2014.

San Antonio Spurs beat Miami Heat (104-87) in Game 5 to win their fifth NBA Championship. In a game, that the Heat needed to win to a least give their challenge for a title, a glimmer of hope. And it almost went their way judging by  the first quarter  opening blitz, where they led the Spurs by double digits. That lead evaporated in the second quarter, when the Spurs came out fighting. For then onwards Miami were chasing the game.
Congrats Spurs
more to follow...

And the Winner is..

Who is going to win the world cup?  I wonder. There are a lot of formidable teams coming to the mundial this year. No European team has won the World cup whenever, it is hosted in the Americas. Therefore, that should be an indicator of who could win it. Or maybe not. The last time the world cup was hosted in South America, was in Mexico '86. Not considering U.S.A 1994, but if you must, then 1994.  Soccer has made several leaps and bounds since then.African teams have grown stronger. The game laws are biased towards the attack-minded teams. The best players enjoy more than necessary protection by referees and the dirty side of the game such as diving and time wasting, isn't forgiven like in 1980s. Little wonder that Brazil is only team from the Americas, that keeps appearing in the finale since 1994. Whereas three different teams from Europe have won it during this timeline. 

Therefore, an European team might just win it in South America for the first time.

1. Belgium : Have a crop of very exciting players such as : Hazard, Lukaku, Januzaj and Kompany. On paper, they look like world beaters but they have not yet been tested in a tournament setting.

They will leave their group but their lack of tournament experience will haunt them against a more experienced side. 

Verdict: Quarter-final.

2. England: Come on England! Goes the battle cry. England's journey in several world cups is a strange one. Their adventures usually end in a heart-breaking penalty shoot-out. This time, something feels different. Armed with quality young players such as Barkley, Lallana and Sterling, England looks most likely to pose their most forminable challenge for the crown in recent memory.

Verdict: Semi-finals.

3. Spain: In the last 8 years, Spain have occupied the enviable position that was Brazil's. Tikitata seems to have over-shadowed Samba. Spain before the 2008 European championship win, were regarded as the perennial under-achievers. How have times changed. The accent of the spanish team to the top of the soccer pyramid coincide with the dominance of Barcelona. With Barca's powers of the wane, would we see a commiserate effect on the national team? Most likely, if feelers from last years confederations cup is any thing to go by.

Verdict: Quarter-finals 

4. Uruguay: Forlan showed the rest of the world, how to use the much reviled Jalabiya in 2010. Becoming the most valuable of the tournament in the process. Four years later, not so sure if he still got it. Suarez, when he rejoins the team, might not be 100% fit. That leaves Cavani to lead the charge. Sadly, it will not be enough to escape the group of death.

Verdict: Early Exit

5.Brazil: The hosts will love to win their sixth title in front of their home fans. Opponents will have  to cope with, not just the attacking talents that the Brazilian team possess, but also the intimidating atmosphere, that will be generated in whichever stadium, the home team plays in.

Verdict: Semi-final

6.Argentina: Possess the most gifted player in the world. Messi is probably the greatest player, the world has ever seen since Maradona. If they can solidify their defense. then they have chance to lift the trophy.

Verdict: Finalist

7. Holland: Under the tutelage of Manchester United bound, Loius Van Gaal, the dutch will play in their usual fluid attacking style. Which will be a departure from the ultra-defensive style of Marwijk. 

Verdict: Quarter-Finals

8. Italy: The Azzuris had a disaster in the 2010 edition. But often times, when the italians leave their group, they find themselves, if not in the finale, a very close to winning it. This Italian team has been going through a period of transition and rebuilding but their performances in both the European Champions in 2012 and the Confederations Cup last year, shows that the Italian team is now ready to challenge, should they leave the group.

Verdict: Champions