Now that most of the squads have been announced, let's discuss who we all think have the best chance to win the tournament. I'll start. The usual contenders, Brazil, Argentina, France, Spain, Portugal, Germany will obviously be favored. I intentionally left off Belgium. They're not going to be the same team from the last 2 WCs and I have serious questions with their backline.
PICK: Portugal. I'm biased of course but in looking at their 26, they may have the best defensive corps in the tournament when you talk about Dalot, Cancelo, Antonio Silva, Nuno Mendes, and Ruben Dias and then you add Guerreiro and Pepe. They'll be strong in the Forwards as well led by Ronaldo, but add in Joao Felix and Ramos. And they've got a strong MF, Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Vitinha, and Joao Mario.
It's an upset pick I know but I feel like no one gives them a real chance because they're so focused on Brazil, Argentina, and France (best team on paper). I think Brazil flames out again in the round of 16. I think they have real problems in the MF despite all the star names. I mean Fred is there and he's a human turnover whenever he gets near the ball. Yes, they've got dynamic forwards but watching them play for their domestic clubs and they only seem to be interested in taking dives and trying to earn PKs. Argentina has a shot but again I think everyone gives too much credit to them for having Messi on the team.
I don't think Germany has enough this time around. I wouldn't sleep on Spain...they have some talent but I think this is more of a rebuild year for Spain and the transition from the old to the new for them. England is not in the mix despite everyone wanting to talk about them like they are. Serious issues in their backline IMO, especially against teams with a lot of speed. I expect the US to make the knockout round and perhaps win a game in that round but the real goal is 2026 for that team.
Out of Asia, watch for Japan to make the knockout round. Really good side. South Korea has a chance but they'd have to have an upset in the group stage. Solid with a do all striker in Son.
Africa....I have no idea. Ghana and Cameroon are back and Senegal had a chance to make noise before Mane went down with an injury (still expect them to move on as they are playing in the weakest group).
Group of Death IMO is Group H: Portugal, Ghana, Uruguay, and So. Korea followed closely by Group E: Germany, Japan, Spain, and Costa Rica (although this version of the Ticos is not nearly the 2014/2018 version.
Mexico will likely get out of their group as it is pretty weak although Poland will be a tough result as any team that can run Lewandowski out at the 9 is going to be trouble, especially when your back line always seems to be in disarray (i.e. Mexico).
What's everyone else got.
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