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

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The Top Ten
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, amongst 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.

Brazil has always been one of the most successful teams over the years. The Brazilian team looks stronger than in their last appearance in the World Cup. It is only a matter of time now before the young lads from Brazil take back the pride of their nation. The Brazilian team is a young side with lots of potential. The home support is going to help them a lot this time.

However, strong competitors like Spain, Germany, Argentina, Italy, Portugal, and Uruguay may have some big names and talent, but the players of Brazil will be difficult to beat in their nation. This team has improved much more in the last couple of months than they did for the 2010 World Cup. Brazilian players will probably make a good impact in the group stages and win the World Cup this time.

The combination of players like Dani Alves, David Luiz, Thiago Silva, and Marcelo gives them a solid defense, and of course, rising stars Neymar, Oscar, Hulk will provide strong attacking forward. The fans are keen to see Brazil win the World Cup 2014 and bring the pride back home.

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.

Spain is currently the best team in the world. They have experience on their side and are accustomed to the pressure of the finals.

Unlike Germany, who is extremely talented, they haven't been able to pass the semi-final mark for the last eight years. I believe Spain is stronger, mainly due to their greater experience. Players like Xavi, Iniesta, and Ramos are all used to the pressure and expectations from their fans.

Brazil is obviously a huge favorite, but they won the Confederations Cup. No team in the history of the World Cup has won the Confederations Cup and the World Cup the following year, so I trust the stats. Also, the immense pressure from the fans could make Brazilian players nervous.

Argentina is strong in attack but incredibly weak in defense. For Spain's strikers and midfielders, it won't be extremely hard to break their defense. Very often, Spain only needs one chance to score.

So, Spain all the way!

6 Portugal

Portugal seems to have one of the more complete teams in the world. Facing the world champions, Spain, four years ago proved that they were on the verge of a spectacular finish. One goal was the difference, and the winner of that game went on to win everything. It could have gone either way. Four years ago, it could have gone either way, but this is 2014. Portugal has the right chemistry now. All they need is for the greatest in the world to show up! If Ronaldo scores, Portugal advances. This could be the last World Cup for the great one as a starter, so I believe the team wants to make it a great finish.

I spoke with a wise man who "will answer any question" about Portugal. The man was sitting on a chair along a busy street, with a sign stating "The Great Zamboni Will Answer Any Question." I asked him how the US would do this year, and who would win the World Cup. He paused, reflected, looked down, looked up, and told me Portugal would win. He said the US will win their first two games (game 2 is vs. Portugal, I think!), and they will advance out of Group G, but that Portugal will win it all. So, there's your answer. Adios, Germany!

7 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.

Italy has already defeated England 2-1, and now that Uruguay has been defeated as well, there is no team who can stand a chance against them in their group. Italy boasts the best goalkeeper in the world, Buffon, and excellent players like Pirlo, Balotelli, and De Rossi, not to mention their truly impressive defense. Italy has won the World Cup four times (only Brazil has won more times). Statistics also show how much stronger Italy is compared to other major teams, having beaten Germany 15 times in 32 games (10 draws and 7 defeats). Spain could have been a threat, but their 5-1 defeat against the Netherlands was humiliating.

8 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 is an exciting country with so much talent. There's not one position on their team you could say was an area to exploit when playing against them. They're all top professionals and could be real challengers for the trophy in Brazil. The likes of Hazard, Lukaku, and Kompany show just how good they are in all areas of the pitch. Belgium is definitely the one to watch out for.

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.

9 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!

It's redemption time for France after the debacle in 2010. France is ready to move on, look ahead, and forget about the dark past. They will show they have what it takes to contend again with those amazing teams. And remember, the last time France won, they were not the favorite at all...

10 Mexico

I believe that Mexico will win because they are doing their best to win. I don't care if they lose because they will still be my favorite team. If you think they won't win, then you are just crazy. You might disagree, but I won't. I bet they will outperform any other team, and if they don't, well, they will still be the best for me.

Mexico will have a new coach and a new local popular team that has the heart to win, unlike the most popular Mexican stars who are unable to play as a team. Hopefully, Miguel Herrera will remain as the new coach with their new local squad. This young new team has the heart and ability to play together in the World Cup in Brazil.

The way a team plays as a whole determines its success. You may have the greatest bunch of individual stars in the world, but if they don't play together, the club won't be worth a dime. Be proud of being Mexican! I love Mexico! Buena suerte, Mexicans! Hope you make it to the finals and hold the cup with your bare hands!

The Contenders
11 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.

12 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.

Uruguay will most likely reach the semi-finals if they can finish first in their tough group. Once there, with luck and their top players still intact without yellow or red cards, they can beat anyone, especially Brazil. They are the ultimate dark horse and underdog. Everyone always seems to forget that. They've been proving the world wrong for almost 100 years now.

13 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.

People love to underestimate the USA, but what the world needs to realize is that the USA creates the most innovative and impressive people. I am not speaking of Average Joe. I am speaking of those Americans who are truly free and know it. How are they truly free? Because Americans hold an unwavering belief that they are better than the rest of the world. They even have a name for it. It is called ethnocentrism, which means to believe your nation is better than all others.

Many view this as a bad thing, but the fact is that it makes them extremely determined to prove exactly that point. And what better way to prove that you are better than by working like a crazy man and to actually be the best. I know the USA will win simply on their unwavering determination to be the greatest in the world at everything. On that note, I am French and I do not much like the USA, but I respect them, so please keep in mind this is a non-biased perspective.

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 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!

Costa Rica is a very good team! Many people underestimate Costa Rica's abilities. People started believing in the team when they won against Italy. It's totally going to win the World Cup!

16 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.

Smart coach, good players, performance going up and up! They almost defeated Spain (the game ended in a draw just by Spain's luck), drew with Brazil in Brazil while Chile was still testing the team, and defeated England in Wembley. Watch out!

17 Greece

I am from Greece, and I love my country, but come on, we all saw how Colombia beat them hard. And come on, 3/4 and even more people were cheering for Colombia. I wish them luck because they need it BADLY.

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.

18 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.

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 yeah, 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 Algeria

Algeria will definitely win the World Cup 2014... simply because it is team number one in the whole world.

Underdog... You never know what they have up their sleeve.

If they get through the knockout stage, they can be a surprise.

21 Switzerland

If you win your group in Europe, you can win the cup. But they will be satisfied with reaching the semifinals.

The best defense I have seen so far. Argentina got lucky with that one goal defeating Switzerland, but to me, Switzerland won!

Number 6 in the world and they are at 38! What?!

22 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.

23 Iran

'Best' is in the eye of the beholder! As much as we like to be realistic and know that magic only happens in the movies, we still dream of impossibilities. I know Iran is ranked 44th in the World Cup, but Iran's 11 gladiators are the best, and they will magically win the World Cup.

Iran plays like Atletico Madrid. And it has the best forwards in the world, for example, Jahanbakhsh. But they have a mistake, and it's the lack of confidence.

Is Pakistan seriously better than Iran? Iran has some pretty good players that aren't being taken into consideration.

24 Ghana

Even though chances are they won't win, they managed to tie 2-2 with Germany, who is one of the stronger teams. I believe that they have a very strong team this year and should definitely not be overlooked.

They have a very strong team this year. They went to the quarterfinals last year and this year they are going further! They should definitely be higher up on the list.

Are you serious? 96? It seems kind of racist how the all-black teams are in the nineties. Ghana scored a draw with Germany 2-2, so yes, Ghana is a very strong team.

25 South Korea

South Korea has great potential. They were hiding their true potential, and it was proven after the match against Russia.

South Korea may be bad at defense, but we learned from Algeria and will definitely rise to be a formidable team, like in 2002.

I think South Korea's players are good at soccer, but moreover, soccer isn't South Korea's main sport. We own y'all in Ice Skating and Archery!

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