Europe:
I actually think Europe will have a tough time in Brazil, but expect some “underdogs” like France, Italy and Portugal to show stronger than the seeded powers, Germany and Spain.
Belgium: I have been touting this Belgium side for a few years, but am growing weary of the “trendiness” of this side. They have it all, save for experience on the biggest stage, which can cripple a side. I could see this side meeting Brazil in the final.
Bosnia: This is a side I have my eye on as a possible surprise. Led by a dynamic striking duo of Dzeko and Ibisevic being fed by midfielder Pjanic the Bosnians can produce goals. The defense is a question, but I think this side can advance if they can manage the pressure of the big stage.
Croatia: The Croatians are on my fade list and are a side I expect to fall flat in Brazil. They had a rough go during qualifying, fired their coach and appear to be in disarray. There is talent on the roster, but I’d label Croatia a favorable draw in any group.
England: I’m not expecting much from the English, although expectations are certainly sky high as usual. The midfield is a mess and they are too dependent on Rooney to produce goals. They will be a tough out for anyone, but I’m not expecting anything more than one and done in the KO stages.
France: Similar to the Mexicans, but far more talented – the French can’t seem to put it together. They are loaded with superstar talent, yet almost failed to qualify for the tournament, which is becoming common place for this side. Call me crazy, but I think France may have one of the better showing of any European side in Brazil with a possible run to the semi-finals.
Germany: Always a threat who fails to deliver. I have taken the bait with the side over and over again. The first real threat they run into later in the tournament will likely put them away. I’m thinking one of the South American sides scalps them in the QF’s…Columbia anyone?
Greece: Ultra conservative and ultra-defensive. The Greeks catch a lot of flak for their style of play, but it works for them and here they are in the biggest tournament in the world. I’m not expecting Greece to advance, but they aren’t going to go easy either.
Italy: You can never discount the Italians and I would throw them into the grouping with France in expecting them to show well once again on the biggest stage. This is likely Pirlo’s swan song in the Cup and he has some solid attackers at his disposal. Of the pot 4 sides, the Italians are the one I would prefer to avoid the most.
Netherlands: Entering the 2014 world cup, Holland probably has the least hype behind them compared to recent major tournaments. This heckle and jekyll side could get blitzed or make a run to the final. Based on their abysmal showing in the 2012 EURO and seemingly “quieter” expectations there seems to be some value here.
Portugal: Much like France, the Portuguese seem to struggle during qualification, but I have a feeling Ronaldo could take over this tournament and take Portugal further than their roster would suggest. He is the best player in the world and will likely have an incredible showing on this stage IMO.
Russia: This is another side on my fade list. Hosts in 2018, but I’m expecting little from the Russians in Brazil. I’d add them with Croatia and Greece as sides I wouldn’t mind being drawn with.
Spain: Dominant over the years and defending champions. I don’t see it continuing and expect the Spanish to go out much earlier than expected. They are a depreciating asset IMO, which could be a very costly stance to take.
Switzerland: A travesty this side is “seeded”. Everyone is hoping to land in that group. They have some young talent and grit, but play too conservative and without passion IMO. They won’t be advancing out of their group and will likely be inferior to the other European side they are drawn with.
