Top 10 Teams Most Likely to Win the 2014 FIFA World Cup

1. Germany

   

   Germany has the most complete team. They could create two different teams, and both would have a more than decent chance to win the World Cup. They have Neuer, one of the best goalkeepers of today, and an outstanding defense with players such as Hummels, Mertesacker, Boateng, Badstuber, and the captain Lahm, among others.

   They boast an unbelievably powerful midfield, with players like Khedira, Ozil, the genius Schweinsteiger, Muller, and the incredibly fast Gotze and Reus. They will just dominate their opposition. And with Klose about to break Ronaldo's record, Gomez, and a Podolski with an unbelievably powerful shot, they have more than a complete team.

   Brazil may be the favorites, but Germany is the most complete. Most teams have already figured out Spain's way of playing. Portugal is a good team if you think that a two-person team is good. If anything happens to Ronaldo or Pepe, they will suffer badly.

   With most of Germany's players playing in the Bundesliga, mainly for Dortmund and Bayern, they will be able to communicate more easily than teams whose players play in totally different leagues. The Netherlands and Italy have decent teams, but they don't possess Germany's deadly counterattack.

   I predict the Final will be won by Germany against either the Netherlands, Argentina, or even Host Brazil, which will be a pity for the Brazilians due to those terrible memories from the 1950 'Maracanazo'.

2. Brazil

   

   If it's the will of God, Brazil will surely win this time. The 1950 World Cup loss to Uruguay on their home soil is still fresh in their minds. We know there are lots of other strong teams like Germany, Italy, Spain, Argentina, France, and even Uruguay again.

   But since the team knows that their country expects nothing less than winning the World Cup 2014 at home, the Brazilian team is going to play like anything, no matter whatever pains they are going to face. They also know that apart from the group games, they are going to face all the strong and mighty teams on their way to the finals. So, they will surely not allow the game to go away from their hand.

3. Argentina

   

   The fantastic four (Leo, Kun, Dim, Higz) is the undisputed strongest attack in the world. The current coach does not believe in the old Argentine way of playing possession. He created some beasts in counter-attacks in the team, which can down any team in the world.

   Plus, the biggest point is they are not weak in defense anymore. Whoever thinks they are weak will definitely be in for a surprise or shock in WC2014. Sabella created a twin tower in the name of Garay and Federico.

   No one can beat Argentina! Argentina has the best defender in the world. If the best players of Argentina like Messi, Tevez, Di Maria, and Higuain try their best, then of course Argentina will win! Argentina is not the weaker team. Not many national squads can say they bolster such a formidable attack.

   So, chill guys. Argentina will be in the final, I believe. One thing to note: Argentina has beaten Brazil and Germany in their last 2010 match! So, Argentina has a good chance to win this World Cup. This time will surprise you. Wait and see, and if you don't like this team, then don't read this comment. You don't deserve it!

4. Netherlands

   

   The Netherlands did surprisingly well last time around. They tend to control the game and the pace every time they play. Their only issue was a lack of good strikers. You can never rule them out as contenders. Much of the old guard has retired, being replaced by new, young talent that can keep up with anyone on the field. They are well organized and work well as a team overall. The management of old is gone, and the new managers are stepping up their game, filling in the gaps where there was a lack of support and talent.

   I have watched many games where they dominated the pitch but couldn't score a goal. That is changing now, and they are playing a much more open game while still retaining control of the ball. Spain was their downfall last time around, and I don't think they will let that happen again. Their first game is against Spain... That will be their ultimate chance to see if they have what it takes this time around.

5. Spain

   

   There are great teams in this World Cup. Germany has a great squad, Brazil as well, but Spain is above being a "great" team. They are pure football, the approach every team targets.

   Someone posted above talking about how professionally Germany played compared to Brazil, which, in his opinion, played more for fun, and the distress factor was their bet for the win. I'm sorry for the person posting this because I'd be ashamed if I hadn't considered Spain as a combination of ambition and fun. Brazil might host it, and Germany might be the favorite, but remember that they've been the favorite over the last years and Spain has kept breaking the stats. Don't underestimate a country just because they've won everything. Ambition is endless.

6. Italy

   

   Everyone always underestimates Italy, but then the Italians find a way to surprise and triumph. They certainly did in 2006, and in 2012, when they made it to the finals of the Euros. I can't believe that England is ranked higher than a country that held Spain to a nil-nil draw and was the first to have more possession than them when they played in the Confederations Cup in quite some time.

   I tip the Italians to make it out of the group stage and to at least the round of eight. Maybe they'll even make it to the final. Either way, don't rule them out or underestimate them.

   Except for the embarrassment of 2010, Italy always turn up to big tournaments, and their development since Prandelli took over is outstanding.

   Being Italian, I like that most people underestimate the Italian national team. It keeps the odds high! There is no doubt I'll be putting a few pounds down on Italy to win. Sure, Brazil, Argentina, Germany, and Spain may be a step ahead, but Italy are right behind them, as demonstrated recently against Spain in the Confederations Cup and Germany in the Euros.

7. Portugal

   

   Portugal is actually a very strong team. To me, they are second most likely to win after Germany. Their goalkeeper is very strong, has fast reflexes, and is able to save each ball from passing the goal line.

   The biggest advantage for Portugal is Cristiano Ronaldo. With his one-of-a-kind skills, he is able to play strong offense. It has been proven by scientists that Ronaldo is able to jump higher than an average NBA player. Plus, he has one of the strongest and most impressive kicks during free kicks, corner kicks, and naturally while playing.

   Also, Cristiano has a lot of experience because of the many clubs he has participated in. He is currently playing for Real Madrid and for the national Portugal team. This is why Portugal might be the winner of the 2014 World Cup, but no one knows what will happen.

   Clearly, I'm a Portugal fan, but I know that both Germany and Brazil are great teams. Still, Portugal might be able to win with skill and luck. This is why I think Portugal might be the 2014 FIFA champion.

8. France

   

   France has a good chance of winning the whole thing because they have a world-class offense paired with some of the best defenders in the world. They have a lot of young talent like Pogba and Varane, but these youngsters are used to playing for some of the best teams in the world and against the best opponents.

   They're guaranteed to go on to the semi-finals and I wouldn't be surprised if they win the whole competition.

   France won a qualification in a unique way. The team is the only one which succeeded in qualifying after being 0-2 down in the first two matches, turning it around with a 3-0 victory, a feat very famous in France since the 1998 final.

   France won the 1998 and 2000 World Cup and Euro, was in the final in 2006, and is the only country that has beaten Brazil three times in a World Cup. Being in Brazil, I feel that France will win!

9. England

   

   Personally, I think that if England chooses the right players and puts them in the right position, they can go very far and could even win the World Cup! I also think that Rooney should not be a member of the England team, main or substitute, as he makes too many mistakes and is too overrated.

   The perfect team would be:

   - Joe Hart as Goalkeeper

   - Steven Gerrard, Raheem Sterling, Ross Barkley, and Adam Lallana in Midfield

   - Daniel Welbeck, Daniel Sturridge, and Glen Johnson playing Forward

   - Phil Jagielka, Glen Johnson, Gary Cahill, and Jack Wilshere in Defense

   From the recent matches I have watched and from what I have seen from each of these players, I think if these people are put to play in these positions, England will go far. England cannot afford to make mistakes in this World Cup. I believe England has very talented footballers this year, and if they try their hardest, they can do anything.

10. Belgium

    

    Belgium has got a very talented midfield and very good strikers (e.g., Romelu Lukaku, Kevin De Bruyne) in its team! Their ball possession is often higher than the possession of their opponents.

    This young generation is especially strong both physically and mentally. Marc Wilmots, the manager, sees the small things, but he is very confidential and is like a father for his team. The social connection is extremely high, which doubtless is an advantage!

    Natural talents!

    Belgium possesses a complete first team with plenty of high-quality substitutes. The midfield is especially strong, with tactically, physically, and intelligently skilled players. A significant part of the squad plays for the best teams in the Premier League. Their youth will give them the ambition and motivation needed to win the World Cup.

The Newcomers
11. ?

    Dominican Republic

    

    They will win the World Cup, they have the best team and best players at the World Cup 2014

    Dominican can get into the World Cup game one day

12. ?

    Vietnam

    

    Vietnam can get into the World Cup

The Contenders

13. Mexico

    

    Vámonos, Mexico! Even though Mexico is going to play probably the most dangerous team in the World Cup so far, Holland, I believe Mexico can stop their attack. Five defenders versus three forwards is a strong setup.

    Mexico has shown that even against the toughest opponents, and with the odds heavily against them, like the draw against Brazil and win over Croatia, they can still put up a great fight. They have strong spirit and some incredible players.

    Even though Holland is definitely not a team you want to mess with, they are still beatable. Australia showed that, even though the Socceroos lost. Miguel Herrera is an amazing coach. I am sure he will know what to do. It feels like the tougher the opposition, the better Mexico plays.

14. Colombia

    

    Colombia has more quality players than Mexico, Uruguay, England, or Belgium. It also has a much better defense than Argentina and plays much better collectively than Brazil. It is amazing to see so many comments from people that until recently didn't know anything about football.

    Watch the games, people. Football is a totally different beast these days. Don't just base your comments on what some reporter says on the news. Quality football comes from quality players and a quality coaching staff, and that's what Colombia has right now.

    Colombia knows how to play fair and doesn't need to play dirty to win a game. We saw this when they won against Uruguay on Saturday.

    Even though this is only their second time entering the World Cup, they know how to play and have fun with it. Every time they have a game, you can expect the stadium to be filled with yellow. Colombia hasn't lost a single game, and we can say the next challenger will be going home as well.

15. Uruguay

    

    Uruguay made it to the semi-finals in the last World Cup, won the first World Cup ever played, and beat Brazil to take the World Cup in 1950. That means we will come first place, especially since we've got Cavani, Forlan, and Suarez. Now, Forlan may not be starting in the big games against Italy and England, but even though he's 35, I believe he's still got it.

    When they put him in the field, he'll do work. So, let's go Uruguay!

    Uruguay has excellent players like Suarez, Cavani, and others. This time, they're playing close to home, being a neighboring country and a former state of Brazil. Many Brazilians would love to see a Brazil-Uruguay final in Maracana Stadium. Also, in June and July, the weather is not too hot, which is more similar to the River Plate area. So, the final shall be Brazil-Uruguay, fifty-fifty.

16. United States

    

    Firstly, let me get something straight: the US has Clint Dempsey, the next generation captain of the U.S. According to FIFA, because they pulled off a win against Ghana (which is a team far better than the U.S.), they have a huge chance to win against Portugal. A few reasons why Portugal might lose to the U.S. are because Ronaldo has a leg injury, and he doesn't play that much anymore, staying mute during the game between Portugal and Germany. Also, Pepe is out of the game, and he was one of the best defenders on their team.

    I have patriotism for my country. I don't really know about you guys, but the coach of the U.S. has motivation. The U.S. has skills. All it needs is some motivation, which the German coach is successfully delivering to the U.S. This year, the U.S. has a strong start and will, no doubt, make it into the next round.

17. Costa Rica

    

    Costa Rica has been underestimated! I think we have a fair chance of winning because we have faced some pretty aggressive and great teams, and we won.

    So far in the 2014 games, we haven't lost to a single country, so why not continue to aspire to win and succeed? I know we will! Costa Rica for the World Cup!

    Underrated by far. This list is clearly outdated and should be remade, given that many of the "top" countries are already knocked out. Costa Rica deserves to be much higher up on this list. They are a passionate and motivated team! Excellent performance so far in this World Cup!

18. Chile

    

    They almost defeated Spain, ending in a 3-3 draw with a Spanish last-minute goal. They have grown outstandingly as a team. They also have defeated France and, as I'm writing this, are about to defeat England.

    They have Sanchez in Barcelona and Vidal as a key player in Juventus. They have also shown their skill against teams from South America during the qualifications.

    I'm voting for Chile for two reasons. 1) I'm Chilean, so I kind of need to vote for Chile. 2) According to this chart, it says that the United States will get in a higher position, even though they are in the group of death with Germany, Portugal, and Ghana. Chile has a higher chance than the US of winning.

19. Japan

    

    This year, the Asian teams have a tactic that is sure to work. They form a circle that is hard to break and then pass to each other, and the last person in the circle scores. Japan is the best Asian team, as far as I know, so yes, they have a chance.

    Japan is strong and has won many matches. They have been practicing very hard to win the World Cup. They also have strong players such as Honda, Kagawa, Yuto, and many more!

    It's not impossible for them to reach the top slot. They are smart. All they need is more tactics and practice. Good luck, Japan!

20. Canada

    

    A league called OPDL (Ontario Provincial Development League) will help Canada in the World Cup by 2022. Same for the females.

    We believe the impossible can happen.

    I have two friends from Canada. Go, Canada!

21. Australia

    

    Australia, definitely! They haven't won yet, but that will stop now. They have a way better coach and awesome players! They're bound to win. Go Aussie!

    They have three new coaches, so being as good as the 2006 team will not be achievable. As for getting in the World Cup with Brazil, they might just make it.

    Australia all the way! Although they haven't won before, they can now because they have the best coach and great players.

22. Croatia

    

    Croatia has the heart to win it all. They do have more heart than skill, but their skill is not lacking anything. I look forward to an underdog (or someone new) taking it - Colombia, Croatia, USA, Uruguay, Mexico, or even Holland!

    Maybe because I'm Croatian, but as you see, Luka Modric (maestro), with Rakitic (sensation), and most importantly, Mateo Kovacic growing to be the best midfielder in the world, I think that is an awesome midfield creation.

    Croatia, unlike other teams, doesn't have a star player, which upper teams do, but they have a great all-around team.

23. Russia

    

    With Fabio Capello as manager, and taking first place during qualifying, with Portugal barely qualifying against Sweden, Russia has some hidden gems. They have lost only once so far in this race and have a standard group with Belgium, Algeria, and South Korea. They have a high chance of progressing with Belgium to the knockout stages. And who knows, they may finally reach the semi-finals and surprise us!

    Russia is a young country full of young players, but they still have some players with experience, like Kerzhakov. Furthermore, no country is really taking Russia seriously, and yet they only conceded 2 goals during qualifying. As well as that, Russia is the champion of beach football and mini football, both times beating Brazil in the finals!

24. North Korea

    

    Kim Jong Un's master plan will unfold, sabotaging the World Cup and therefore enabling his team to win. You just wait, it may happen.

25. Pakistan

    

    Pakistan is rapidly improving and is expected to be in the 2022 World Cup. The youngsters are really good, making it to the semis in the Street Child World Cup. Pakistan also made the ball, so they are now excited by soccer, not only cricket.

    Pakistan is going to make it to the semis before the 2034 World Cup, no doubt.

    Pakistan lacks basic infrastructure, but they are brimming with talent, and if given proper attention, they can form a very good team. As the official ball makers for the 2014 World Cup, we expect them to produce quality players who can strike that ball too.

26. Cameroon

    

    Please win. It would really be awesome. Everybody is saying they won't, so they should really try because it only comes every 4 years.

27. Greece

    

    Strong defense, top-of-the-art counterattacks, deadly free kicks, and corner kicks. Great spirit and defending a country in crisis. All you need to make it to the quarter- or semifinals.

    They need their defense to start the counter-attack and their two strikers to push and take chances. More importantly, they need luck, lots of luck. They're not going to win the cup, but they can be a big surprise, like in 2004.

    Greece has a really big chance to surprise the world, because that's what they are famous for. I think they can make the quarterfinal or semifinals!