World Cup 2014: Come and Gone!

Hello all! With the 2014 edition of the World Cup wrapped up, it is fair to say that it was one of the best ones in recent memory? True, I may be speaking from the perspective of a German fan who was ecstatic to see the Europeans lift the trophy, but I also believe that - objectively - the Brazilian event was one for the ages. Beginning in the group stages, we saw some exciting stuff with controversy in the opening Group A match between Brazil and Croatia: the Europeans would feel hard-pressed to have lost by a score of 3-1, but the rest of the tournament offered little solace as they bowed out with only a 4-0 drubbing of the group's beating boys Cameroon to their name. The pleasant surprises of the group were arguably Mexico - and in particular their outstanding goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa - who would go on to meet heartache of their own against the Netherlands in the Round of 16. Brazil and Mexico were the sides to make it out of the group in first and second places respectively (only separated by goal difference with 7 points a piece) while Croatia and Cameroon returned home earlier than they would have liked.

Over in Group B, titans collided and when the dust settled, Spain were the shocking losers traveling with Australia on their way out of the tournament. The Netherlands were indomitable, and Chile showed a resilient fire that unfortunately seemed to desert them as they advanced in the tournament. The Dutch took the top position in the group with a winning streak as Chile tallied 6; Spain grabbed 3 in the end; and Australia were thrilling, though to no avail as they collected 0 points.

Group C had its own brand of crazy as Colombia ran rampant over the competition; Greece edged out the right results after a 3-0 beating at the hands of the eventual group winners; the Ivory Coast were physically imposing though otherwise uninteresting; and Japan were inventive, a pleasure to watch, but only managed one point from the three group matches. Colombia and Greece proceeded on to do completely different things: The Europeans fell to a Costa Rican side that the world wanted to see do well in the Round of 16, while Colombia lost to the hosts in the Quarter Finals after a decent win over Uruguay.

As for Group D we had the world turn upside down for a couple of days. If you can find me one person who honestly thought that Costa Rica would progress from this group - let alone win the group - I would kiss you and them. And this wasn't at the expense of sides like Bosnia-Herzegovina or Iran (no offense!), but rather ITALY, ENGLAND, and URUGUAY. Frankly, it was awe-inspiring. The Ticos took 7 points, topped the group, beat Greece in the Round of 16, and were only just barely bested by the Netherlands in the Quarter Finals. Uruguay proceeded to be defeated by Colombia in the next round while Italy (with 3 points) and England (with 1) were left scratching their heads and wondering what the heck had just happened to them.

Turning now to Group E, where France scraped by with Switzerland after harrowing ordeals against Ecuador and Honduras. The Swiss lost to eventual Finalists Argentina in the next round as France beat Nigeria handily in the Round of 16 only to lose to the conquering Germans in the Quarter Finals by a single goal. There isn't much to say about this group as it was a straightforward one and the teams performed relatively close to expectations.

Group F is another matter. Although Argentina proved as deadly as anticipated (they did, however, lose strength rather than gain it moving out of the group), Bosnia and Herzegovina were less than their best. On attack they proved ineffectual against half-serious sides, while on defense they kept things close but could never work their own assault. Nigeria deserved the second slot despite drawing 0-0 with Iran (who were admittedly very spirited given the weight of the task that was expected of them) in their opening fixture. Edging Bosnia-Herzegovina and just barely losing to Argentina, the Africans earned their spot in the Round of 16 and it was a pity that they just rolled over against the French.

Now then, Group G which saw Germany slaughter Portugal 4-0 in the opener, the United States defeat Ghana 2-1 in an absolute thriller, and the Americans join the makers of Audi, Puma, and Haribo when all was said and done. Granted, Belgium would go on to beat the US by a single goal in the next round, but many of the fans kept watching as the Germans made a run to the World Cup Final... and win. Portugal were left deflated as they ended up in third on goal difference while Ghana earned a point from surprisingly drawing with Germany in their second group game. The United States tied with the Portuguese (though they honestly would have won, had it not been for Tim Howard's one and only mistake of the tournament) and lost 0-1 to Germany but it was enough!

Last but not least: Group H. Belgium ran out deserved leaders despite scoring few goals in comparison to the second place side. It wasn't Russia! No, not even South Korea! Yes, Algeria were the final surprise of the group stage with a 4-2 win over the Asians and a draw with the Russians after losing narrowly to Belgium in the first game of the group. As for the other two teams? They looked rather uninterested to be frank. They only ever scored a single, solitary goal (at most!) in any of the games they played. The Koreans couldn't stay off the ground, and the Russians seemed nonchalant as they were directed towards the exit following two draws: one in their first match with South Korea, and one in their last with the North Africans.

Going through the knock-out rounds, Brazil were able to edge Chile on penalties after a 1-1 game after 120 minutes - a lucky result for the hosts once more. Colombia roundly beat the Uruguayans 2-0 when the two sides faced off, while the Netherlands controversially beat Mexico 2-1 after a last gasp penalty was granted to the Europeans in the 4th minute of stoppage time. Huntelaar was more than up to the task of putting it away. Costa Rica defeated the stiff Greek defense on penalties after a 1-1 affair, while France beat Nigeria 2-0 and Germany had a bit more in the tank than the hard-fighting Algerians. Argentina sent the Swiss packing with a 1-0 victory as Belgium slotted home twice against the USA in their match-up. In the Quarter Finals, France lost 0-1 to Germany, Colombia lost to Brazil and Argentina beat Belgium by a similar deficit (1-2 and 1-0 respectively), as the Netherlands put Costa Rica to bed in penalties after a 0-0 game of football. The Semi Finals were another source of amazement as we watched Brazil mercifully lose 1-7 to the Germans (admit it, the Europeans could have made it much worse for them) and the Netherlands finally bite the bullet and fall in penalties to Argentina after playing out a 0-0 game. Fighting over third, Brazil were bested once more by the Dutch with a 0-3 scoreline before Germany found the back of the net against Argentina through Mario Gotze in the 113th minute of the match. Deservedly as the best team of the tournament, the Germans lifted the trophy and celebrated their 4th World Cup victory. Congratulations to all of the teams that participated and thank you for putting on such a brilliant festival!

A Tale of Woe Before Brazil 2014 Begins: 6/6/2014

The injured list for the run-up to the World Cup in Brazil has become rather populated of late. Even since my last post, France's Franck Ribery and Clement Grenier (who play at Bayern Munich and Lyon respectively) have been forced to withdraw from the tournament due to fitness concerns. England will be without Theo Walcott while Spain will miss Victor Valdes (although they do have Iker Casillas who would have doubtless started in goal). Part of the reason why Germany may be seen as having a weaker defense than they have fielded in the past is the fact that both Holger Badstuber and Ilkay Gundogan have been ruled out. One danger for Italy is the fact that midfield partner of Andrea Pirlo, Riccardo Montolivo, has been sidelined with an injury similar to the one Mexico's Luis Montes has experienced: a serious fracture in the leg. To clarify: Andrea Pirlo was NOT the one who was injured. Riccardo Montolivo was. The pair in the Italian midfield had only been brought up due to the fascinating football they have been playing up to this point. Add to that the fact that Croatia are without three class acts - Ivo Ilicevic, Niko Kranjcar, and Ivan Strinic - and you may just wonder whether a conspiracy exists to get the Brazilians to lift the World Cup on home soil. With absentees such as Kaka and Alexandre Pato (through the decision of the coaching staff, not injury) you can't say that everything looks great for the hosts, but it certainly could be worse. Personally, I hope that the likes of Bernard, Luiz Gustavo, and Maicon are able to perform. If so, the Brazilians might just take the world by storm.

World Cup Update: 6/3/2014

Well, just when you figure that everything has been sorted out and you can sit down and relax for the lead-up to the World Cup, the team news comes out and your predictions are shaken. Obviously, it isn't an exact science, but let's move on shall we? First of all, there have been some very unfortunate injuries. Probably first on the list is in the Colombia camp: Radamel Falcao who has failed to recover from his niggling knee injury that has been an issue since January. Alongside such a huge loss, Colombia will also be without Luis Muriel and Luis Amaranto Perea - both aging but talented and deeply committed players - as per Jose Peckerman's decision. Despite these setbacks, consider that several of the Colombian back-line: Pablo Estifer Armero and Camilo Zuniga as well as Cristian Zapata and Mario Yepes play in the Italian first division with quality sides such as Napoli, AC Milan, and Atalanta. In addition to such a strong defense, the likes of James Rodriguez (who plays at Monaco) and Teofilo Gutierrez (a man who earns his keep at River Plate in Argentina) will mean that the Colombians are - while not as strong as they may have once been considered - still a formidable side. As far as reconsidering their chances, I would say that they should progress from their group, but upon meeting Italy (or potentially Uruguay) in the Round of 16, they will make their exit from the competition with their heads held high. Costa Rica are a side that will enjoy their time in Brazil, despite the fact that Alvaro Saborio will be out due to injury alongside Bryan Oviedo. However, Joel Campbell, Bryan Ruiz, and Keylor Navas make for a talented basis of the squad despite a lack of extensive depth.

Honduras have also been rocked by injury news, with Arnold Peralta out of contention due to a thigh problem. Nevertheless, the Hondurans have quality on the pitch with Boniek Garcia and Jerry Bengtson in the side. Meanwhile, Ecuador has named Segundo Castillo - despite being injured - to a side that includes Antonio Valencia among a host of Central and South American players. I don't believe that any of these changes will impact the manner in which these teams perform to any great extent. As for Australia, the veterans Mark Bresciano, Tim Cahill, and Mark Milligan will all be there for the Aussies. Mark Birighitti, Josh Kennedy,  and Luke Wilkshire have each failed to be selected while a number of domestic players will be making their run out. It'll be interesting if
Mitchell Langerak manages to get a chance to play in goal. Belgium are lucky enough to not have any injuries going into the World Cup... beside the phenomenal Christian Benteke. Frankly, there isn't a position that I can see the Belgians lacking in resources. With Thibaut Courtois in goal and a defensive line that includes Toby Alderweireld, Daniel Van Buyten, Vincent Kompany, Jan Vertonghen, and Thomas Vermaelen, the Belgian defense is formidable to say the least. What about moving up the pitch? Romelu Lukaku, Eden Hazard, Adnan Januzaj, Marouane Fellaini, and Axel Witsel are a fierce attacking force that have a history of scoring for club and country.

Nigeria meanwhile are going to be without midfielder Sunday Mba - one of the members of the side that took third in the African Cup of Nations last year. Also out are Joel Obi and Nnamdi Oduamadi. Back in the line-up: Joseph Yobo and striker Peter Odemwingie who have illustrated their resolve after a lack of selection. Interestingly, Babatunde Michael and Kunle Odunlami will suit up in the national colors beside keeper Vincent Enyeama, defenders Elderson Echiejile and Efe Ambrose as well as John Mikel Obi, Ogenyi Onazi, and Victor Moses. With that kind of quality, the Nigerians may just give Argentina and Bosnia and Herzegovina a run for their money. They should be able to dispatch Iran. The only concern for Argentina is goalkeeping. Sergio Romero will probably get the nod, but he isn't quite on the level of Manuel Neuer of Germany, Spain's Iker Casillas, or Italian Gianluigi Buffon.On the other hand, with defenders like Ezequiel Garay, Pablo Zabaleta, Hugo Campagnaro, and Martin Demichelis who needs a goalie? Doubtless, Argentina will rely heavily on their attacking resources - Sergio Aguero Gonzalo Higuain, Ezequiel Lavezzi, and a little guy named Lionel Messi. They just might be able to do it too! Control of the midfield and ensuring that Messi is not isolated at the front will be two of the major things that may make or break this talented side.

The other side in Group F, Bosnia and Herzegovina, will be without Ervin Zukanovic, though the main core remains: Asmir Begovic at the back, a contingent of defenders who ply their trade in Germany, forwards Vedad Ibisevic and Edin Dzeko, and a midfield serving in Italy among other places. They should be enough to get out of the group so long as they keep it together against Argentina in the opener and bounce back from what will likely be a defeat against the South Americans. France will be a solid, well-oiled machine despite Franck Ribery's struggle with a back injury. Although they have great keepers, Hugo Lloris will doubtless get the nod to start as the defense will have a vaguely English feel: Mathieu Debuchy, Patrice Evra, Bacary Sagna, and Laurent Koscielny all play on the island. The midfield is much more "French" in the sense that Yohan Cabaye and Mathieu Valbuena among others play in Ligue 1. With Karim Benzema, Olivier Giroud, and Ribery leading the charge, Les Bleus might just go far.

The Germans also look set to take the field in Brazil, despite their recent friendly performances (yes, Cameroon are good, but Germany looked childish at many points in their match). And despite the fact that their only "striker" is an over-30 (though always gifted!) Miroslav Klose. In Manuel Neuer and Roman Weidenfeller the team has some of the brightest goalkeepers at the same time as the defense - though not as impregnable as it once was - continues to be put together thanks to the likes of Philipp Lahm, Per Mertesacker, Kevin Grosskreutz, Benedikt Howedes, and Mats Hummels. The midfield is a zoo. Though largely developed from German-based talent, Sami Khedira, Mesut Ozil, Lukas Podoloski, and Andre Schurrle all play in England. Nevertheless, the play has seemed disjointed of late. The teammates need to start connecting if they are to have any chance against sides like Portugal as early as the group stage. As for Cameroon, the Africans are great. High energy and a joy to watch, the side is also built out of largely foreign-based material. However, you have to wonder whether there is such a thing as too much age and experience. Samuel Eto'o, Makoun, and Song are great to be sure, but alongside goalkeeping concerns and a defense that has its moments, you have to wonder whether they will rocket, or fall flat. Less than ten days to go!!!

World Cup 2014: Revisions and Predictions: 6/1/2014

Following the latest news and results, I believe that a reevaluation of the World Cup group predictions from last time is called for. Alongside this, I'll also be making some fearless guesses at the Round of 16 and on. Who'll win? As much as I would like it, probably not Germany. Off we go! In Group A, barring a complete collapse by the Brazilians, the only thing that has changed is who will be in second: I think Croatia might just be able to pull it off. They have shown by far more quality than Mexico of late which leads me to exchange the two in the standings. While the Central Americans may fare better in the climate, the Croatians have more on the bench for me as well as the endurance to push through any troubles. Cameroon is a side that I would love to see get out of the group. While Samuel Eto'o is a phenomenal player - even at his age - and the other members of the squad have a decent amount of class as well as strength, I fear that they may be out-matched in Brazil. It's possible that the Africans may take a point from the Mexicans, but it won't be enough. Not much has changed in my estimation of Group B. Spain and the Netherlands are still my picks to advance from the group, even though Chile will have the likes of Arturo Vidal in their arsenal. The South Americans won't roll over for the Europeans, they may even push them until the final match, but I fear that the Spaniards and the Dutch just have too much for the Chileans to handle. Australia remain odd ones out in my book!

Turning to Group C, Colombia should push through with the squad they have, while Greece will muddle on, defending as if their lives depended on it. Goals will be a concern for the Southern Europeans, but they should tally on the counterattack against sides like Ivory Coast and Japan; winning through in the process. While the Africans are certainly physically fit, you must wonder whether they may be outdone by the technical ability of the Japanese. Nevertheless, I would tip the Africans to finish in third despite the fact that I much prefer Japan's style of play. Group D is far more tricky as Italy and Uruguay remain my picks to progress, though England will hope to serve as dark-horses with Costa Rica probably occupying the bottom of the group standings by the end. While a World Cup win for any of the sides in this group looks unlikely, neither Italy, Uruguay, or England can be taken lightly. Between the two European sides, Italy and England, I would say that the Italians have the right balance of youthful exuberance and aged experience. True, the midfield looks somewhat gray behind the ears, but even so, England will be hard-pressed to match them in the South American heat. Uruguay meanwhile should run the English ragged. At the same time, they might not have the same physical presence as either the English or the Italians. But, they do have proven goalscorers who should harass the defenders of their opponents.

Group E is somewhat more straightforward. So long as the French actually arrive in Brazil, they have the talent to progress from a deceptive group. I say deceptive because the Swiss are a well put together side while Ecuador may serve as a surprise package. All the same, the two European sides are my choices for group winners. Honduras on the other hand would probably count a draw as a success in this group. In terms of title contenders, Group F has one such side: Argentina, who might not be on everyone's lips, but perhaps should be. If Lionel Messi is on target, there will be no stopping them. While the Argentinians should progress rather easily, Bosnia and Herzegovina are the team that I would pick to snatch second. In offense they are deadly while on defense they are as solid as a brick. The same cannot be said for the Nigerians or the Iranians who may pose a few roadblocks, though nothing that the higher quality sides in the group can't handle.

Finally, Groups G and H are rather similar. Both have two sides that should win it, while each have a third side that might just slip in under the radar. In the former, Germany and Portugal are the teams that are clear favorites. The potential stowaway? The United States. Yes, even without Landon Donovan I believe that they can edge Ghana, tie Portugal, and keep things tight in their last match against Germany who may have already qualified at that point. That is no to say that Ghana are push-overs, but they can certainly be beaten. In the latter Group, Belgium and Russia are most likely going to pull through, but don't be surprised if South Korea are able to surprise the Russian bears. And while the Belgians are certainly charismatic, you may wonder what happens when they get flustered or fall behind. It's true, I may be biased towards the South Koreans because of their technique and flair, but I also believe that the Russians are not nearly as strong as they have been in the past. As for the Belgians, they are certainly a force to be reckoned with, but the lack of international experience and change of climate may prove disadvantageous for them. As for Algeria, as wily as they may hope to be, there is only so much that a talent deficit can be concealed.

What of the Round of 16 and beyond? Well, I'll offer some considerations. Depending on how rough the Brazil-Netherlands match goes may determine further progression for either side as Colombia (or Italy, depending on how good the Colombians turn out to be) will offer stiff competition for whoever they face in the Quarter-Finals. France-Bosnia and Herzegovina should be a thrilling fixture with the two sides putting on a great attacking performance. On paper, the French should win the day, setting up a match with Germany who should make easy work of Group H second place side Russia. In the other fixture bracket, Spain will probably face Croatia and claim victory in typical Spanish fashion. The defending champions would then encounter Uruguay who will have beaten Greece in a rugged battle. Meanwhile, Argentina and Switzerland will take to the field in the Round of 16 as Belgium and Portugal face off in their respective fixture. Argentina will likely claim victory over their European opponents before facing off against either Portugal (probably more likely if Cristiano Ronaldo and company are in form and able to play) or Belgium (who would win if they are able to shut down Ronaldo and get their strikers to score as much as they have domestically) in the Quarter-Final.

Speaking of the Quarter-Finals, Brazil will likely best Colombia if they have gotten this far while Germany should handle anything the French can throw at them. Meanwhile, Spain-Uruguay and Argentina-Portugal will be contests just as heated as if they were the Final with Spain probably getting the better of the representatives from Uruguay and Argentina deconstructing the Portuguese. That means the Semi-Finals would place hosts Brazil against Germany while Spain take on Argentina. As much as I would love to see the Germans in the Final, I think that Brazil would claim victory if they made it this far. Argentina would then outdo the Spaniards, setting up a South American Final and a European Third Place match. Argentina would then perhaps break the hosts' hearts as Germany finally dispel their ghosts by defeating Spain in the Third Place match-up. What are your thoughts? Do you agree or disagree? Feel free to leave a comment! Enjoy the build-up to the showdown!

World Cup 2014 Brazil Update! 5/10/2014

With the World Cup in Brazil fast approaching, let's reconsider the chances that the respective teams have in the competition. Many team updates have impacted the chances of particular sides in performing once the games kick-off. Starting with Group A, Brazil are the obvious favorites of finishing at the top. Mexico are my pick for second place, though it'll be a close run between them and the team that I believe will take third place: Croatia. Finally, Cameroon are the side unlucky enough to get placed in such a competitive group. They are a decent side, and may very well challenge the Mexicans and Croats. 

Group B stands in a similar position to the first group, with Spain my choice of going to the top of the group. The Netherlands should manage second despite Chile's best efforts. Injuries in the South American's squad have dented their chances to be sure. Australia are rather helpless in this group though. They are transitioning with a new coach which may prove too serious a handicap for the Aussies. 

As for Group C, Colombia are potentially the best side of the four though Greece, Japan, and the Ivory Coast are very close in terms of talent, drive, and togetherness. I would suggest that the Greeks are the most well put together side, but every group match will be a challenge here! The Japanese and the representatives from the Ivory Coast will ensure that the action does not stop. 

Turning now to Group D, at least one big name will fall: Italy and Uruguay are my picks to move forward. Their squads should have sufficient depth to deal with the other group members. Having said that, England will certainly challenge the South Americans at least. Nevertheless, the squad fluctuations for the English may prove disastrous. They won't be embarrassed, but the going will be difficult. Meanwhile, Costa Rica should be encouraged to enjoy their time in the tournament, as they will probably fail to qualify for the next round.  

Group E is arguably one of the most straightforward in the competition, with France and Switzerland talented enough to make through at the expense of Ecuador and Honduras. Having said that, the Europeans are very similarly talented; though the delegates from the Americas should prove a close race. Ecuador will provide a spirited display, though the Swiss defense and French cannons should prove too much for them in their respective encounters. 

The teams in Group F are a challenging bunch, with Argentina the clear victors in my book though Bosnia-Herzegovina and Nigeria are difficult to differentiate. All the same, I think that Bosnia-Herzegovina will place second while Nigeria will defeat the Iranians to stay off of the bottom of the table. The Europeans will hope to continue their free-flowing football, while Iran will hope to keep their heads and play the game that they have played through qualifying so successfully. 

 Group G may be the most exciting one, with Germany and Portugal the favorites to progress while the United States and Ghana will be left fighting for third position. No one side is clearly weaker than any other. Ghana may falter, under the sustained pressure of their three competitors. The U.S. and Portugal are trickier opponents for the Germans, though I would expect Cristiano Ronaldo and company to undo the Americans when the time arrives. 

Last but not least, Group H has the potential to become an open contest. Belgium and Russia should win through, but South Korea may challenge the Eastern Europeans – who are not nearly as strong as they have been in the past – while Algeria may be left disappointed unless they can find the back of the net more often against quality opposition. One concern for the Belgians is the depth of their squad and the threat that a disappointing initial result against the Algerians may do to their morale. Hope you are looking forward to the World Cup!

International Friendlies 3/5/2014!

Building up the excitement as we approach the 2014 World Cup, France have ended the Netherlands' run of 17 matches unbeaten in competition. Scoring through Karim Benzema and Blaise Matuidi, the 2-0 scoreline was well-deserved after a poor showing from the Dutch side. Meanwhile, Ukraine were able to keep a clean sheet against the United States in addition to scoring twice against the Americans. Courtesy of Andriy Yarmolenko and Marko Devic, the Ukrainians were able to put aside the troubles sweeping their nation for a time and provide a stunning performance in Cyprus against a quality - though defensively questionable - U.S. team. As for Argentina-Romania, the South Americans will be hoping that their performances improve in time for the tournament in Brazil: a 0-0 scoreline was a salute to the Eastern Europeans' defensive solidarity but left many doubts over the Argentine goal-getting capability. England's game with Denmark was a close affair though the British were finally able to get their noses in front through a phenomenal performance by Daniel Sturridge after Denmark's keeper, Kasper Schmeichel, had kept a clean sheet for much of the match single-handedly. Playing in Madrid, Spain were able to notch a 1-0 victory over Italy thanks to Pedro's 2nd half goal. One of the most riveting matches was arguably that between Portugal and Cameroon where the visitors performed admirably in the 1st half only to get clobbered in the 2nd. Vincent Aboubakar gave Cameroon the lead but Cristiano Ronaldo equalized accounts just before the half-time break. Ronaldo went on to score a second while Raul Meireles, Fabio Coentrao, and Edinho each contributed to the 5-1 final score. Two more games now. Germany's date with Chile was an awkward affair, the Europeans winning through with a solitary goal from Mario Gotze in the 1st half. I would like to note that the uniforms the Germans wore seemed a little strange to me, feel free to leave your own comment on them but I prefer the predominately white jersey. Last but not least, Belgium versus Ivory Coast! The hosts went into the half-time break leading due to Marouane Fellaini's goal though I would say the 2nd half is where the action really started. Belgium's midfielder Radja Nainggolan made it two for the Europeans while Didier Drogba reminded us why he is better than many of the younger players with a goal. Max Gradel also scored for the Ivorians making it a 2-2 final score. Great games all around, best of luck to the teams as they continue their preparations for Brazil!

World Cup Run-Up Friendlies!

Fascinating fixtures coming up soon with the contenders for the World Cup set to take the stage in a couple months. Spain are testing some new line-ups out in their match with Italy with Juan Mata and David Villa both benched to allow for Diego Costa's entrance into the side. As for the Azzuri, both Balotelli and De Rossi are out of contention due to injury and disciplinary issues respectively. Germany vs Chile should be another interesting encounter with the Europeans unknowns such as Pierre-Michel Lasogga, Shkodran Mustafi, Andre Hahn, and Matthias Ginter. Bastian Schweinsteiger should also appear. As for Chile, it would be great to see an attacking showing from the South Americans with the likes of Alexis Sanchez, Eduardo Vargas, and Arturo Vidal. I'll be returning to this subject later but I have to take off now, just keep the following on your radar: Belgium against the Ivory Coast, Portugal versus Cameroon, Mexico take on Nigeria, France fight the Netherlands, England hope for a win against Denmark, Austria stand against Uruguay, and the United States travels to take on Ukraine. If those line-ups don't make you salivate you are no soccer fan!

Predictions for the World Cup 2014 in Brazil. 12/7/2013.

Well I will promise you all right now: I will not cite the Confederations Cup as a source of information on how the teams participating will do next year. Additionally, I'll say that travel and climate will be an issue for some of the teams playing in the tournament - but this is professional football, not a pick-up game so I expect the sides to compensate for any of these concerns if they have any hope of progressing through the stages to the showpiece event. Injuries may well be an issue, and I'll post closer to the tournament with any updates on that front. As for now, let's get into the predictions! In Group A, Brazil are certainly favorites to win with Mexico and Croatia the two sides fighting for the second position slot. I'd tip Mexico to make it through as Cameroon finish rock bottom and Croatia will not quite have enough. The opening match will set the tone for the Eastern Europeans as they face Brazil in the kick-off for the whole tournament. Depending on how poorly that first match goes, Croatia may well have the stuffing knocked out of them when they face Cameroon 6 days later. On to Group B now where Spain and the Netherlands should be the two to make it through although Chile will not make life easy for either side. Australia will probably not have booked hotels beyond the group-stage dates as a swift exit is on the cards for them. Again, though, the opening match in this group may determine a great deal as Spain take on Netherlands in a match-up that should stir a great deal of emotion from the last time around. If Holland loses their cool, and some players for disciplinary reasons, expect an abrupt South American vacation. As for Group C, Colombia should find their way through however Japan, Greece, and even Ivory Coast will have reason to believe that they can progress to the knock-out round. I'll say Greece might clinch it because of their typical defensive prowess though Japan shouldn't count themselves out of the race. Much will decide on whether Colombia can break down the gate when they face Greece in the group's opening fixture Ivory Coast's match with Japan should prove much more entertaining. Group D meanwhile may be seen as having a three-way race on the other side of the table: Italy and Uruguay are my favorites to proceed - in first and second respectively - however England will not give much to them easily. Costa Rica on the other hand is almost guaranteed a three-and-out affair with little hope of even tying any of the other three. If Italy can defeat the English in their opening fixture, they should win the group; otherwise it'll be Uruguay in first and Italy in second. Onwards to Group E where France and Switzerland are the notable - if imperfect - favorites and Ecuador and Honduras are left fighting for honor. Having said that, if the Swiss don't perform in the opening fixture against Ecuador, they'll be out while France's first match against Honduras should be a nice introduction to the continent. Group F will likely see Argentina and Bosnia-Herzegovina go through despite Nigeria's best efforts. Iran should enjoy their time on the world stage and play to the best of their ability - this is the culmination of all the work that they have put into the side and it would be disappointing, though not unexpected to go out without a point. Group G. For many of those of you who follow this blog, you'll likely feel hard done by the draw for the United States. It is true, Germany and Portugal are the undeniable favorites to win the group and contenders for the tournament title. It is also true that Ghana are a well put together side and possibly the strongest African side (after Ivory Coast) in the tournament this year. Despite these facts, when the U.S. plays Ghana in their first match, they will give it their all and the two sides really are just about equal on paper. At the very least I would expect the U.S. to draw that game and give the European sides a run for their money before bowing out with their heads held high. Finally, Group H: where Belgium, Russia, South Korea, and Algeria face-off and the Europeans are once more the favorites to make it through. There is honestly little chance that either the Koreans or the Algerians will mount much of a challenge against the Belgians and the Russians though I could see the Russians making life difficult for themselves when they face South Korea in the opener. Algeria will likely bow out in 4th with South Korea above them and Belgium deserved leaders. Again, look for an updated post closer to the tournament about any injuries and such that may alter these predictions. May the best side win!

World Cup 2014 draw! 12/6/2013

And the results are out! After the drawing for the group-stage of the Brazil 2014 World Cup, we have hosts Brazil in Group A against Croatia, Mexico, and Cameroon. In Group B, Spain, the Netherlands, Chile, and Australia will face-off for the right to make it into the knock-out round. Group C is full of dark horses with Colombia, Greece, Ivory Coast, and Japan promising for an exciting opening set of matches. Group D is arguably the opposite with Uruguay, England, Italy, and Costa Rica competing for just two places in the next round. Group E should be relatively straightforward with Switzerland, Ecuador, France, and Honduras fighting for the right to lift the World Cup. Group F should be relatively open as Argentina must contend with Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iran, and Nigeria. Group G on the other hand will likely be incredibly tight as Germany, Portugal, Ghana, and the United States must fight with only two sides progressing to the next round. Last but certainly not least, Belgium, Algeria, Russia, and South Korea make up Group H. Look for a predictions post in the very near future!