World Cup Reference Guide

2014 WORLD CUP
GUIDEBOOK
by Abe Asher
Presented by
CREDITS
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GUIDEBOOK AUTHOR
Abe Asher lives in beautiful Portland, Oregon. He fell in love with the intensity, stakes and spirit of football during the
2006 World Cup, especially during the Netherlands Portugal Round of 16 game, which featured 34 yellow cards,
12 red cards, 129 screams, and 645 dives. Abe loves the Portland Timbers, and mostly tolerates his favorite European
club, Chelsea FC.
His Twitter handle is @abe_asher
GUIDEBOOK DESIGNER
A.G. Hease has been creating content for World Soccer Talk since 2009. His first soccer memories are of reading the
New York Daily News' agate type coverage of the 1990 World Cup. He lives in sunny Santa Monica, CA.
His Twitter handle is @aghease
WO R L D S O C C E R TA L K / WO R L D C U P 2 014
2014 WORLD CUP

GUIDEBOOK
INTRODUCTION
Not All World Cups Are Created Equal. This One Is Special.
The FIFA World Cup is the pinnacle of sports, and one of the joys of our modern world. Its an unparalleled
blend of pageantry, pride, drama, intensity and intrigue. Its the worlds party, and a celebration of the
beautiful game.
However not all World Cups are created equal. They are defined by the moments of brilliance, the fervent
atmosphere of the stadiums, and the idea of 32 nations on the cusp of transcendent glory. The 2014 edition in
Brazil has a chance to be remembered as one of the best ever.
This summer, football returns to its spiritual home, recapturing the soul of the beautiful game. Brazil breathes
football. The nations carnival atmosphere already established, its possibly the premier World Cup host. Of
course, it hasnt all been rosy. Protests in Brazil have been rampant over the cost of hosting while the local
economy suffers, and while the protests are valid, they dont subtract from the country as a host.
We have our strongest field of teams since the field was expanded to 32, rendering three groups of death, and
mouth-watering matchups that will keep the eyes of the world glued in for the duration of the tournament.
For viewers in the United States, the game times could hardly be better. ESPN broadcasts their last World Cup,
with Ian Darke leading the coverage.
From here, its onto Russia and Qatar that is, if those two countries dont get the World Cup stripped from
them.
But for now, for this summer, Brazil is perfection. Not all World Cups are equal. This one is special.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Stadiums
page 4
Group A
pages 5-9
Group B
pages 10-14
Group C
pages 15-19
Group D
pages 20-24
Group E
pages 25-29
Group F
pages 30-34
Group G
pages 35-39
Group H
pages 40-44
Knockout Bracket
page 45
Full Bracket and TV Schedule
page 46
THE STADIUMS
Estadio do Maracan Rio de Janiero This Brazilian temple of football is the crown jewel of the stadiums and is the hub of the
tournament in Rio. The hallowed ground will host its second World Cup Final in July.
Estdio Nacional Man Garrincha Brasilia The second largest stadium came off without much ado. It will host seven games
including the third place match.
Arena Corinthians Sao Paulo The Arena Corinthians is very much the second most important stadium. Located in Brazils biggest city,
and hosting the tournament opener and a semi-final, the stadium is architecturally stunning. But multiple workers have died building the
stadium from the ground up, and there are concerns over its readiness.
Estadio Castalao Fortaleza In the industrial town of Fortazlea, this stadium is notable for its huge roof, and it was the first of the
World Cup stadiums to be ready for action.
Estadio Mineirao Belo Horizante In the city where the USA beat England in 1950, football is king. The majestic Estadio Mineirao will
host Brazils semi-final if the hosts make it that far.
Estadio Baro-Rio Porto Alegre This stadium lights up at night like the Allianz Arena in Munich, and it will host a full slate of games.
One of the most visually arresting stadiums in the tournament.
Arena Fonte Nova Salvador Built from scratch for the World Cup and upcoming Rio Olympics, the Arean Fonte Nova will host a
quarterfinal plus Spain Holland, and Portugal Germany.
Arena Pernambuco Recife Different because of its square shape, this is another stadium built from scratch, and its possibly Brazils
finest effort.
Arena Pantanal Cuiaba Resembling Tottenhams White Hart Lane, the brand new stadium in Cuiaba not one of the big hotbeds of
Brazilian football will host three group games.
Arena de Amazonia Manaus Manaus is in the middle of the Amazon Rainforest, and this is the ground everyone desperately wanted
to avoid because of long travel and poor playing conditions. Both the USA Portugal and England Italy games are here.
Arena das Dunas Natal The Arena das Dunas has a flower-shaped roof, one of the cool features of this new stadium that will host
four group matches.
Arena de Baixada Curitaba FIFA has threatened to pull this stadium from the roster because of its crawlingly slow pace of
renovation, and its still only 85% complete. Its one of the many black eyes from the process of hosting the tournament for Brazil.
Fortaleza
Manaus
Natal
Recife
Salvador
Cuiaba
Brasilia
Belo Horizonte
Sao Paulo
Rio de Janeiro
Curtiba
Porto Alegre
GROUP A
BRAZIL CAMEROON CROATIA MEXICO
FIXTURES
Brazil ___v___ Croatia
Mexico ___v___ Cameroon
6/12 4ET ESPN

6/13 12ET ESPN2
Brazil ___v___ Mexico
6/17 3ET ESPN
Cameroon ___v___ Croatia
6/18 6ET ESPN
Cameroon ___v___ Brazil

Croatia ___v___ Mexico
6/23 4ET ESPN2

6/23 4ET ESPN
GROUP BESTS
Player Neymar BRA / Goalscorer Neymar BRA / Manager Scolari BRA /
Supporters BRA / Defense BRA / Attack BRA / Depth BRA
Teamwork - BRA / Most Likely To See Red Marquez MEX
Passer Modric CRO / Leader T. Silva BRA
BIGGEST MATCHES
Best Match - Brazil v. Croatia - Opening games always pop with occasion and carnival,
and if Brazil can notch a big win in Sao Paulo, it could be the springboard to their title
challenge.
Most Important Match - Mexico v. Croatia - The winner of this game on the last day of
group play goes through with Brazil.
!
GROUP A
BRAZIL CAMEROON
MEXICO CROATIA
CROATIA
CAMEROON
MEXICO
BRAZIL
BRAZIL
"SELACAO"
"Selecao"
PREVIEW
It will never be said enough: For all the bedazzling glories and trophies and great players and plays, losing the World Cup final at the
Maracan to Uruguay in front of 200,000 Brazilians in 1950 left an unmistakable scar in Brazil.
They are at the heart of the game. No one plays, lives or breathes soccer better than Brazil. When the country was selected as host for
the 2014 World Cup, it seemed like a slam-dunk. But a mess of a run-up with stadium delays, worker deaths and mass protests has
marred the party atmosphere.
Still, its football, and Brazil wants to win. The bond between the Selao and the people of Brazil is among the strongest between team
and people in the world. The team stands with the people in their protests, and the people stand with the team to create a stunning
home-field advantage.
With their best team since they last lifted the trophy in 2002 led by national hero Neymar, the scars from 1950 can be erased, and the
World Cup can be returned home.!
SQUAD
Goalkeepers:Julio Cesar (Toronto FC), Jefferson (Botafogo), Victor (Atletico Mineiro)
Defenders:Marcelo (Real Madrid), Daniel Alves (Barcelona), Maicon (AS Roma), Maxwell, Thiago Silva (both Paris St Germain), David
Luiz (Chelsea), Dante (Bayern Munich), Henrique (Napoli)
Midfielders:Paulinho (Tottenham Hotspur), Ramires, Willian, Oscar (all Chelsea), Hernanes (Inter Milan), Luiz Gustavo (VfL Wolfsburg),
Fernandinho (Manchester City)
Forwards: Bernard (Shakhtar Donetsk), Neymar (Barcelona), Fred (Fluminense), Jo (Atletico Mineiro), Hulk (Zenit St Petersburg)
THE KEY 3
Brazil won the Confederations Cup in 2013 because Neymar was awesome. Hell have to be awesome again. Paulinho was the engine
of that 2013 team, and things will run through him again. Julio Cesar fled QPR for the Toronto FC revolution in an attempt to keep his
World Cup dream alive.
PLUS: Oscar didnt light up the Premier League last year, his creativity will be key, and journeyman Fred isnt a household name, but he
might be when its all said and done. Brazils defense is strong.
THE BOSS
LUIZ FELIPE SCOLARI - Felipe Scolari is a managing monster. Big Phil won Brazil the World Cup in 2002, and was brought back for a
second spell to right the Brazilian ship. Hes succeeded again, defining the starting eleven, and installing discipline and an edge that led
to a thundering Confederations Cup triumph in 2013. A perfect hybrid of passion and nous, Scolari has a chance to go down in World
Cup lore.
EXPECTATIONS
CHAMPIONS - There is no other option. On home soil, with nothing less than the dreams and aspirations of an entire nation at stake,
there most certainly is no other option than raising the trophy in the temple of the Maracan
GROUP A
BRAZIL CAMEROON
MEXICO CROATIA
CROATIA
CAMEROON
MEXICO
BRAZIL
CAMEROON
"SELACAO"
"The Indomitable Lions"
PREVIEW
Cameroon are regulars on the world stage who havent taken the next step since Roger Mila inspired them to a quarterfinal run in Italy
90. Since then, theyve only missed one World Cup, but theyve never made it past the group stage. The Lions are back after a
professionally taken care of qualification campaign, but they arent boasting their best team.
In fact, Cameroon didnt even qualify for the last two African Cup of Nations, and fewer of their players play at the top levels of
European football than many of their African counterparts.
But like all good African teams, Cameroon wont be lacking for physical strength. They have a big, tough spine, and as indomitable as
their nickname suggests. Its mental strength that could be lacking in the Brazilian heat.
Leader and top player Samuel Etoo has quit the team multiple times after rows with management, but hes back now, and will have to
score for his team to surprise in Brazil.
SQUAD
Goalkeepers:Charles Itandje (Konyaspor), Sammy Ndjock (Fetihespor), Loic Feudjou (Coton Sport)
Defenders: Allan Nyom (Granada), Dany Nounkeu (Besiktas), Cedric Djeugoue (Coton Sport), Aurelien Chedjou (Galatasaray), Nicolas
Nkoulou (Marseille), Henri Bedimo (Lyon), Benoit Assou-Ekotto (Tottenham Hotspur)
Midfielders: Eyong Enoh (Antalyaspor), Jean Makoun (Rennes), Joel Matip (Schalke), Stephane Mbia (QPR), Landry Nguemo
(Bordeaux), Alex Song (Barcelona), Edgar Salli (Lens)
Forwards: Samuel Eto'o (unattached), Eric Choupo Moting (Mainz), Benjamin Moukandjo (Nancy), Vincent Aboubakar (Lorient), Pierre
Webo (Fenerbahce), Fabrice Olinga (Zulte-Waregem).
THE KEY 3
Mbia often plays in the midfield, but hell be asked to slide into central defense for Cameroon. Jean Makoun has long underachieved
throughout his career, could this tournament be a revival? Its Etoos last bow on the world stage, what impression will he leave us with?
THE BOSS
VOLKER FINKE - A managerial journeyman, the German Finke has held a number of low-profile jobs across Europe for the last 30-odd
years. He was appointed in Spring 2013 after the Cameroon qualifying campaign fizzled, and at 65 in Brazil, hell be stepping onto the
biggest stage of his career.
EXPECTATIONS
Out of the Group - In Group A, everyone thinks they can finish behind Brazil. Its no different for Cameroon, who fancy themselves as
the trailblazers of African football. The bar is set at the knockout round, ever since that groundbreaking quarter-final run in 1990.
GROUP A
BRAZIL CAMEROON
MEXICO CROATIA
CROATIA
CAMEROON
MEXICO
BRAZIL
CROATIA
"SELACAO"
"Vatreni"
PREVIEW
There was nothing smooth about qualification for Croatia, as they never hit the highs that Belgium did in their group. Things came to a
boil after their last game a loss against Scotland when manager Igor Stimac was sacked.
After scraping by fairytale Iceland in a playoff, its fair to say that Croatias glory days and days resembling those glory days are gone.
The country is happy just to be back at the World Cup after missing out in a playoff in 2010, but the strong form theyve shown in recent
European championships may be difficult to reach through the relative turmoil.
But there is plenty of talent on this team. All over the field, there are skillful players who make for an entertaining brand of soccer from
this, possibly the most successfully footballing country to split from the USSR, though the Czech Republic may have something to say
about that.
SQUAD
Goalkeepers: Stipe Pletikosa (Rostov), Danijel Subasic (Monaco), Oliver Zelenika (Dinamo Zagreb).
Defenders: Darijo Srna (Shakhtar Donetsk), Dejan Lovren (Southampton), Vedran Corluka (Lokomotiv Moscow), Gordon Schildenfeld,
Danijel Pranjic (both Panathinaikos), Domagoj Vida (Dynamo Kiev), Sime Vrsaljko (Genoa).
Midfielders: Luka Modric (Real Madrid), Ivan Rakitic (Sevilla), Ognjen Vukojevic (Dynamo Kiev), Ivan Perisic (Wolfsburg), Mateo
Kovacic (Inter Milan), Marcelo Brozovic (Dinamo Zagreb), Sammir (Getafe), Ivan Mocinic (Rijeka).
Forwards: Mario Mandzukic (Bayern Munich), Ivica Olic (Wolfsburg), Eduardo (Shakhtar Donetsk), Nikica Jelavic (Hull City), Ante
Rebic (Fiorentina).
THE KEY 3
Mario Mandzukic was sent off in the final qualifier against Iceland, so hell miss the opener against Brazil. When he gets back, he must
score. Modric is his teams best player, while Lovren may fill in at center-back for Josip Simunic, who was banned 10 games for making
pro-Nazi gestures.
PLUS: The defense is experienced but old, and many old attacking hands from the thrilling Euro 2008 campaign are on the bench.
THE BOSS
NIKO KOVAC - The 42 year old is only six years removed from captaining Croatia; now hes coaching them after being appointed just
before the European playoffs. Despite only having coached a handful of games in his short career, Kovac was given a two-year deal,
and his brother Robert is his assistant. The Croats have certainly taken a flyer on their suave new boss in any case, they miss Slaven
Bilic.
EXPECTATIONS
Out of the Group - No doubt, Croatia is bruised and battered. But theyll fancy their chances in this group, and with some of the best
players in the tournament, that semifinal run in France 98 lingers in the memory.
GROUP A
BRAZIL CAMEROON
MEXICO CROATIA
CROATIA
CAMEROON
MEXICO
BRAZIL
MEXICO
"SELACAO"
"El Tri"
PREVIEW
Ah, Mexico. Where do we begin? How about here: No team in international soccer has such an inflated self worth as the Mexicans.
They have never made it beyond the Round of 16 at a World Cup they havent hosted. In the two tournaments they hosted 1970 and
1986 they made the quarterfinals.
But the road to the middle of the road was one traveled suicidally. The story starts back in 2012, when Mexico won the Gold Medal in
London at the Olympics after dominating the 2011 Gold Cup. The future looked bright. But then the Hexagonal started, and 0-0 draw
after 0-0 draw left Mexico on the brink of World Cup oblivion.
Throughout the disasters, Mexico inexplicably stuck with coach Chico de la Torre. Then, after a 2-1 loss to Honduras at the Azteca broke
the camels back, Mexico riffled through three coaches in four games and only made it to Brazil with two goals from the USAs B-team
against Panama in stoppage time of their match while Mexico was going out in the rain in Costa Rica.
Theyre in the World Cup now, and they should advance. But the scars from qualification are numerous, and recovery is a long way
down that meddling road.
SQUAD
Goalkeepers: Jose de Jesus Corona (Cruz Azul), Guillermo Ochoa (Ajaccio), Alfredo Talavera (Toluca)
Defenders: Miguel Layun (America), Carlos Salcido (Tigres), Paul Aguilar (America), Andres Guardado (Bayer Leverkusen), Hector
Moreno (Espanyol), Francisco Javier Rodriguez (America), Diego Reyes (Porto), Rafael Marquez (Leon).
Midfielders: Miguel Angel Ponce (Toluca), Jose Juan Vazquez (Leon), Javier Aquino (Villarreal), Hector Herrera (Porto), Isaac Brizuela
(Toluca), Marco Fabian (Cruz Azul), Carlos Pena (Leon).
Forwards: Oribe Peralta (Santos), Javier Hernandez (Manchester United), Giovani dos Santos (Villarreal), Raul Jimenez (America),
Alan Pulido (Tigres).
THE KEY 3
Much of the Mexican revival is based around Marquez, the grouchy old man at the heart of the national team. Hes a leader, but hes a
shadow of the player he once was. When Mexico was flailing in qualification, everything was on the shoulders of Hernandez. Can he
score in Brazil? And Guardado is a figurehead for all the European based payers. How will they fit back into the team?
PLUS: The goalkeeping position is a question mark, and the back 3/5 is as well. There is a real weakness in central midfield.
THE BOSS
MIGUEL HERRERA - Hired as Mexicos fourth manager of the qualification campaign, Herrera has a little Maradona in him from his
diminutive stature, brash press conferences and decisions, and crazy goal celebrations. Herrera had the gall to make Mexico Club
America 2.0, and it saved El Tri. Now, how will he navigate the mind-field of national team management over the long run leading up to
the Cup?
EXPECTATIONS
Quarterfinal - El Tri's faithful, at the very least, expect their run of advancement to continue. The realistic ones would be content with a
quarterfinal appearance.
GROUP B
AUSTRALIA CHILE SPAIN NETHERLANDS
FIXTURES
Spain ___v___ Netherlands
Chile ___v___ Australia
6/13 3ET ESPN

6/13 6ET ESPN2
Australia ___v___ Netherlands 6/18 12ET ESPN

Spain ___v___ Chile
Australia ___v___ Spain
Netherlands ___v___ Chile
6/18 3ET ESPN

6/23 12ET ESPN2
6/23 12ET ESPN
GROUP BESTS
Player Iniesta, SPA / Goalscorer Sanchez, CHE / Manager Del Bosque, SPA
Supporters NED / Defense ESP / Attack NED / Depth ESP / Teamwork - ESP
Most Likely To See Red Neil, AUS / Passer Xavi, SPA / Leader Casillias, SPA
BIGGEST MATCHES
MOST IMPORTANT GAME -- Spain v. Chile - If Spain are going to be title contenders,
they must beat a team like Chile if they lose, they might not even advance from the
group.
BEST GAME - Spain v. Netherlands - Nothing speaks to the quality of this years field
than a rematch of the previous final happening on the second day of the tournament.
Whichever 2010 finalist comes up short is immediately on the ropes.
!
GROUP A
B
AUSTRALIA
BRAZIL MEXICO
CHILECROATIA
SPAIN NETHERLANDS
CAMEROON
BRAZIL
AUSTRALIA
"SELACAO"
"Socceroos"
PREVIEW
After years of continuous improvement, it appears Australia have hit a wall.
Starting around 2004, a golden generation comprised of players like Cahill, Viduka, Schwarzer, Kewell and others lifted Australia to
their first World Cup qualification in 2006. Around the same time, they hired Guus Hiddink and joined the Asian Football Confederation.
In Germany, Australia made the last 16 and went out when Italy scored a dubious last-minute penalty.
But since then, the progress has stalled. Australia made it to South Africa, but disappointed. They barely qualified from a weak Asian
region for 2014, and fired their manager when the camp turned sour after consecutive 6-0 friendly defeats to Brazil and France.
Theres very little talent on this team, and to make things worse, look at the rest of Group B. Australia has no chance, and a real look at
how the program back on track get will be required after the tournament.
SQUAD
Goalkeepers:Mat Ryan (Club Bruges), Mitchell Langerak (Borussia Dortmund), Eugene Galekovic (Adelaide United).
Defenders: Jason Davidson (Heracles Almelo), Matthew Spiranovic (Western Sydney Wanderers), Ivan Franjic (Brisbane Roar), Bailey
Wright (Preston North End), Ryan McGowan (Shandong Luneng), Alex Wilkinson (Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors).
Midfielders: Oliver Bozanic (Luzern), Mark Bresciano (Al Gharafa, Qatar), James Holland (Austria Vienna), Mile Jedinak (Crystal
Palace), Mark Milligan (Melbourne Victory), Dario Vidosic (Sion), Matt McKay (Brisbane Roar), James Troisi (Atalanta), Massimo
Luongo (Swindon)
Forwards: Tim Cahill (New York Red Bulls), Matthew Leckie (FSV Frankfurt 1899), Tommy Oar (Utrecht), Ben Halloran (Fortuna
Duesseldorf), Adam Taggart (Newcastle Jets).
THE KEY 3
Longtime Aussie goalkeeper Marc Schwarzer retired from the national team at the beginning of 2014, leaving Langerak to step into his
boots. With the departures of many of the golden generation, Tim Cahill is the leader of this team. Jedinak will have to cover a fragile
backline.
PLUS: Lucas Neill is the standing captain, but he doesnt have a club at the moment.
THE BOSS
ANGE POSTECOGLOU - There are always a few cases where a federation loses faith in the coach that brought them to the World Cup,
and that was the story for Holger Osieck who got the sack after consecutive 6-0 friendly defeats to Brazil and France. Osiecks
replacement was Postecoglou, Australias most successful domestic manager. Postecoglou takes over the side with just a few games to
play before Australias daunting World Cup task begins.
EXPECTATIONS
Anything Is Gravy - The draw was a death knell for the poor Aussies, who werent feeling so good about themselves heading into the
tournament anyway. As long as theyre not completely embarrassed and walk away with no points, Australia will move on intact.
GROUP A
B
AUSTRALIA
BRAZIL MEXICO
CHILECROATIA
SPAIN NETHERLANDS
CAMEROON
BRAZIL
CHILE
"SELACAO"
"La Roja"
PREVIEW
Not since Chile hosted the World Cup and made the semi-final in 1962 have expectations and hopes been higher on the South American
coast.
For all intents and purposes, this is a home World Cup the tournament is next door in Brazil, and few teams will be better equipped to
deal with the heat and atmosphere than the Chileans.
In 2010, Marcelo Bielsas young team took the World Cup by storm until they ran into Brazil in the knockout round. Now, that team has
matured into a beastly mixture of athleticism and talent, especially through the middle. Playing a progressive, attacking, possession
oriented style, Chile routinely pack as many as eight players in the opposition half and play high-scoring games.
Chile have been handed an extremely difficult draw. If they get through a group with Spain and Holland, the 2010 finalists, they very
well could meet Brazil again in the Round of 16. Its a tall order, but for the first time in over 50 years, Chile is equipped to meet it.
SQUAD
Goalkeepers:Claudio Bravo (Real Sociedad), Johnny Herrera (Universidad de Chile), Cristopher Toselli (Universidad Catolica)
Defenders: Gary Medel (Cardiff City), Jose Rojas (Universidad de Chile), Eugenio Mena (Santos), Gonzalo Jara (Nottingham Forest)
Midfielders: Arturo Vidal (Juventus), Mauricio Isla (Juventus), Marcelo Diaz (Basel), Francisco Silva (Osasuna), Felipe Gutierrez (FC
Twente), Jose Pedro Fuenzalida (Colo Colo), Carlos Carmona (Atalanta), Jean Beausejour (Wigan Athletic), Charles Aranguiz
(Internacional), Miiko Albornoz (Malmo)
Forwards: Alexis Sanchez (Barcelona), Eduardo Vargas (Valencia), Jorge Valdivia (Palmeiras), Mauricio Pinilla (Cagliari), Esteban
Paredes (Colo Colo), Fabian Orellana (Celta Vigo)
THE KEY 3
Medel is a midfielder by trade, but Chile slot him back into central defense to anchor that back three. Vidal is one of the best in the
world, and he runs the midfield, whle Barcelonas Alexis Sanchez leads the line up top.
PLUS: Goalkeeper Claudio Bravo is a great leader, while the 3-4-3 formation allows Chile to have more of the ball. There is power all
throughout this team. Vargas is one to watch up top
THE BOSS
JORGE SAMPAOLI - When Sampaoli was appointed Chile manager, he was brought in to return the side to the high-pressing, athletic
style that the beloved Marcelo Bielsa used to much success in the 2010 World Cup. Sampaoli, a Bielsa disciple, has delivered on that
promise, and Chile has never looked stronger. Whether Sampaoli can match wits with the likes of Del Bosque and Van Gaal is another
matter.
EXPECTATIONS
Semifinal - There is real belief that this is Chiles time. Confidence has never been higher. On South American soil, and despite a killer
draw, La Roja can deliver their best ever tournament.
GROUP A
B
AUSTRALIA
BRAZIL MEXICO
CHILECROATIA
SPAIN NETHERLANDS
CAMEROON
BRAZIL
SPAIN
"SELACAO"
"La Furia Roja"
PREVIEW
Spains place in world football lore is already won. This Spanish side, composed of violinists and ballroom dancers like Xavi, Iniesta,
Xabi Alonso and David Villa became the first side to win three consecutive major tournament trophies when they beat Italy 4-0 in the
Euro 2012 final.
Theyre the defending World Cup winners, and they have nothing left to prove. If they wont be looked back on as the greatest
international side ever, it wont be because they didnt win enough.
Now, as the golden generation ages and a new generation that is perhaps just as talented emerges, this tournament marks the end of an
era for Spain. In the 2013 Confederations Cup final, they were smashed 3-0 by Brazil, and its fare to say that the team has lost their
aura and since of invincibility.
In 2008, 2010, and 2012, Spain won as favorites. Defending the World Cup in Brazil as the slightest of underdogs would illuminate their
place in history, and make Spain shine even brighter.
SQUAD
Goalkeepers:Iker Casillas (Real Madrid), Pepe Reina (Liverpool), David De Gea (Manchester United)
Defenders:Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid), Gerard Pique (Barcelona), Raul Albiol (Napoli), Javi Martinez (Bayern Munich), Juanfran
(Atletico Madrid), Jordi Alba (Barcelona), Cesar Azpilicueta (Chelsea)
Midfielders:Xavi (Barcelona), Xabi Alonso (Real Madrid), Andres Iniesta (Barcelona), Koke (Atletico Madrid), Sergio Busquets
(Barcelona), Santi Cazorla (Arsenal), Cesc Fabregas (Barcelona), Juan Mata (Manchester United), David Silva (Manchester City)
Forwards:Pedro (Barcelona), Diego Costa (Atletico Madrid), David Villa (Atletico Madrid), Fernando Torres (Chelsea).
THE KEY 3
No story has gotten more run in Spain than St. Iker Casillas fate at Real Madrid, where he has been benched. Will he be at his best for
Spain? This is Xavis last big tournament, can he run the show like he has in years past, or has age caught up? Somehow, Spain won
Euro 2012 playing a 4-6-0 strikers goals win World Cups. Is Negrado the man to deliver?
PLUS: Spain dearly missed Xabi Alonso at the Confederations Cup, and will the trademark tika-taka be incisive enough against good
defenses to score?
THE BOSS
VICENTE DEL BOSQUE - Eminently respectable, Del Bosque has guided Spain to World Cup and European Championships. While he
often appears calm, almost dour, Del Bosque is an extremely intelligent manager who can craft a team out of individuals like no other
manager in football. Del Bosque is gracious and also extremely loyal something that will be interesting when difficult selection
decisions have to be made.
EXPECTATIONS
Champions - Theyve known nothing else since 2008. This will be the most difficult title for Spain to win in their run of dominance, but if
they can navigate a tricky opening stretch, Spain could be well on their way to entrenching themselves further in the history books.
GROUP A
B
AUSTRALIA
BRAZIL MEXICO
CHILECROATIA
SPAIN NETHERLANDS
CAMEROON
NETHERLANDS
BRAZIL
"SELACAO"
"Oranje"
PREVIEW
Its been quite the roller coaster four years for Holland. The Dutch made a surprising run to the World Cup final in South Africa,
whereupon they disgraced themselves by playing appallingly dirty and losing to Spain. Still, it was a terrific tournament on the whole.
Then, Holland did as Holland does. Infighting was rampant and morale low as the Netherlands crashed out of Euro 2012 by losing all
three of their games. A total revamp of the national program ensued, with a new manager, player turnover, and a higher accountability
and price on aesthetics.
So far, the results have been good. Holland breezed into the World Cup with suave play, and chemistry is much improved. However,
while Total Football may be back, total talent is down.
Does this team really have the metal to advance from a killer group? Will they kill each other? Or will this crazy four year cycle come
full circle with that unmistakable orange glow advancing deep into the knockout round?
SQUAD
Goalkeepers:Jasper Cillessen (Ajax), Tim Krul (Newcastle), Michel Vorm (Swansea)
Defenders:Daley Blind (Ajax), Daryl Janmaat (Feyenoord), Terence Kongolo (Feyenoord), Bruno Martins Indi (Feyenoord), Joel
Veltman (Ajax), Paul Verhaegh (Augsburg), Ron Vlaar (Aston Villa), Stefan de Vrij (Feyenoord)
Midfielders:Jordy Clasie (Feyenoord), Leroy Fer (Norwich), Jonathan De Guzman (Swansea), Nigel de Jong (AC Milan), Wesley
Sneijder (Galatasaray), Georginio Wijnaldum (PSV Eindhoven)
Forwards:Memphis Depay (PSV), Klaas-Jan Huntelaar (Schalke 04), Dirk Kuijt (Fenerbahce), Jeremain Lens (Dynamo Kiev), Robin van
Persie (Manchester United), Arjen Robben (Bayern Munich)
THE KEY 3
Holland goes as Robben and Sneijder go. If the two are getting along and playing well, this team has a shot at slaying dragons. If
theyre slumping or fighting, the Dutch go home after three games. Defense is a major question mark, and Janmaat is totally untested at
this level.
PLUS: Goalkeeper is also a question, there are four possible starters including 2010 #1 Martin Steklenberg. Also, will this team get
eaten alive on the flanks?
THE BOSS
LOUIS VAN GAAL - After trading Total Football for Total Destruction in 2010, some in Holland felt the countries calamitous Euro 2012
was karmic justice. The venerable Van Gaal was brought in for a second spell in charge to right the ship, and hes done so by
reintroducing the flair to Dutch football, while sorting out chemistry issues as well. But Van Gaal has had past issues with infighting
himself, and leaves at the end of the tournament. Guus Hiddink will replace him.
EXPECTATIONS
Semifinal - Hollands ego has sufficiently recovered from the Euro 2012 shellacking, and while they have a young side in Brazil, there is
plenty of talent. If things gel, and the Oranje can get along off the field, an exciting run could be in store.
GROUP C
COLOMBIA GREECE IVORY COAST JAPAN
FIXTURES
Colombia ___v___ Greece
6/14 12ET ABC
Ivor y Coast ___v___ Japan
6/15 9ET ESPN
Colombia ___v___ Ivor y Coast

Japan ___v___ Greece
6/19 6ET ESPN
Greece ___v___ Ivor y Coast

Japan ___v___ Colombia
6/19 12ET ESPN

6/24 4ET ESPN2
6/24 4ET ESPN
GROUP BESTS
Player Falcao, COL / Goalscorer Falcao, COL / Manager Peckerman, COL
Supporters COL / Defense CIV / Attack COL / Depth COL / Teamwork - GRE
Most Likely To See Red K. Toure, CIV / Passer Kagawa, JAP / Leader Drogba, CIV
BIGGEST MATCHES
MOST IMPORTANT GAME -- Ivory Coast v. Japan - Theyre all going to matter in this
tight group, but if either of these teams take three points from this game, they are a
solid bet to progress.
BEST GAME -- Columbia v. Ivory Coast - Two talented teams that are flying somewhat
under the radar, its a chance to see two great strikers in Falcao (it hes fit) and
Drogba, along with two dynamo midfields collide. The winner should take the group.
!
GROUP A
C
COLOMBIA
BRAZIL MEXICO
GREECE
CROATIA
IVORY COAST
CAMEROON
JAPAN
COLOMBIA
BRAZIL
"Los Cafeteros"
"SELACAO"
PREVIEW
You could not pick two countries with less in common than Colombia and Belgium to follow almost identical paths back to the top of
world football. Both countries vanished from the world stage after a decent 30 or so years around the turn of the century, and both have
reemerged as world cup seeds with explosive golden generations.
Colombia has picked a good time to reintroduce itself to the world. Playing an attacking brand of football and storming through
qualifying, the Colombians seemed to have put it all together.
They have a fantastic coach in Jose Pekerman, and a group of players who are young, dynamic, and incredibly talented. And their
talisman, Monaco striker Ramedal Falcao, was all set to lead his country into the World Cup when he went down with an ACL injury.
Originally feared to be out of the World Cup altogether, its looking like hell be able to recover in time to play hobbled.
Falcaos presence may be the difference between making a run at the semifinals and just getting out of the group. Columbias offense
should be okay, its the defense that has people worried. Whatever happens with Falcao, Colombia is back.
SQUAD
Goalkeepers:David Ospina (Nice), Faryd Mondragon (Deportivo Cali), Camilo Vargas (Santa Fe).
Defenders:Mario Yepes (Atalanta), Cristian Zapata (AC Milan), Carlos Valdes (San Lorenzo), Eder Alvarez Balanta (River Plate),
Santiago Arias (PSV Eindhoven), Camilo Zuniga (Napoli), Pablo Armero (West Ham).
Midfielders:Carlos Sanchez (Elche), Fredy Guarin (Inter Milan), Abel Aguilar (Toulouse), Aldo Leao Ramirez (Morelia), Juan Fernando
Quintero (Porto), Vctor Ibarbo (Cagliari), James Rodriguez (Monaco), Juan Guillermo Cuadrado (Fiorentina), Alexander Mejia
(Atletico Nacional).
Forwards:Jackson Martinez (Porto), Carlos Bacca (Sevilla), Adrian Ramos (Hertha Berlin), Teofilo Gutierrez (River Plate).
THE KEY 3
Jackson Martinez must play big without Falcao missing out. James Rodriguez is Falcaos club teammate and a huge wing threat, while
players like Zapata must hold it all together at the back.
PLUS: Individually, Columbia have good defenders, its collectively where they struggle. Freddy Guarin is a player to watch in midfield.
THE BOSS
JOSE PEKERMAN - One of the most respected South American coaches of his generation, Pekerman was so distraught over his native
Argentinas shootout loss to Germany in a 2006 World Cup quarterfinal, he resigned as manager after the match. Now returned to the
international stage, Pekerman has Columbia buzzing towards the top of world football after an absence of almost 20 years.
EXPECTATIONS
Semifinal - The Columbians are flying high. Full of flair and attacking impetus, ranked in the top five in the world, it doesnt matter that
the team are making their first World Cup appearance in over a decade. A reasonably easy draw has brightened the vision of a deep
run.
GROUP A
C
COLOMBIA
BRAZIL MEXICO
GREECE
CROATIA
IVORY COAST
CAMEROON
JAPAN
GREECE
BRAZIL
"SELACAO"
"Ethniki"
PREVIEW
The fumes of Greeces upset for the ages triumph at Euro 2004 in Portugal still fuels the national team. The Greeks who have a knack for
celebrating the past havent progressed much in the last decade.
However, the seeds of change that were planted a decade ago are finally growing. Portuguese manager Fernando Santos has instituted
a gradually more progressive style. Greece are playing more attacking football at this point than they have at any other time in this
century.
Their qualification for this tournament was perhaps their best World Cup qualifying campaign in recent memory, and they easily
dispatched Romania in a playoff to get to Brazil. The Greeks have some good players, especially in attack.
Now the key will be going out and playing football. Second place can be had in Group C, but it will require victories, and not the shocks
that Greece have become accustomed to springing.
SQUAD
Goalkeepers:Orestis Karnezis (Granada), Panagiotis Glykos (PAOK), Stefanos Kapino (Panathinaikos).
Defenders:Kostas Manolas, Giannis Maniatis, Jose Holebas (all Olympiakos), Sokratis Papastathopoulos (Borussia Dortmund), Giorgios
Tzavellas (PAOK), Loukas Vyntra (Levante), Vasilis Torosidis (Roma), Vangelis Moras (Verona).
Midfielders:Alexandros Tziolis (Kayserispor), Andreas Samaris (Olympiakos), Kostas Katsouranis (PAOK), Giorgos Karagounis
(Fulham), Panagiotis Tachtsidis (Torino), Ioannis Fetfatzidis (Genoa), Lazaros Christodoulopoulos (Bologna), Panagiotis Kone (Bologna).
Forwards:Dimitris Salpingidis (PAOK), Giorgios Samaras (Celtic), Konstantinos Mitroglou (Fulham), Theofanis Gekas (Konyaspor).
THE KEY 3
The Sokratis of Borrusia Dortmund anchors a Greece defense which will be heavily relied on. Karagounis is Greeces aging midfield
maestro. He may not start, but hell lead. Mitroglou is Greeces new talent up top.
PLUS: The wide players can poach a goal, while the goalkeeping isnt entirely solid.
THE BOSS
FERNANDO SANTOS - Taking over from Greece legend Otto Rehaggel after the 2010 World Cup, Santos had a big job to do. But the
Portuguese has done well with Greece, taking the side to the Euro 2012 quarterfinals and qualifying for Brazil, while adopting more
progressive tactics than his predecessor. While Greece cant be considered an attacking juggernaut, progress is being made.
EXPECTATIONS
Out of the Group - Greece are the perennial underdogs, who come into major tournaments by putting eleven players behind the ball
and hoping for one opportunity to score a goal. But their quarterfinal run in Euro 2012 and impressive qualification (goals were actually
scored!) have raised the bar.
GROUP A
C
COLOMBIA
BRAZIL MEXICO
GREECE
CROATIA
IVORY COAST
CAMEROON
JAPAN
IVORY COAST
BRAZIL
"SELACAO"
"The Elephants"
PREVIEW
Cote dIvoires golden generation dawned with so much promise, captain Didier Drogbas call for opposing sides in the countrys offand-on 50 year Civil War to lay down their arms for the 2006 World Cup was heeded.
But back-to-back Groups of Death have robbed the Ivory Coast of much of their potential. Now, that generation has one tournament left,
and theyve finally been handed a manageable draw.
Like many African teams, this side has a fantastic attack that goes two-deep. Its defense and goalkeeping that is the major question, and
some have called into question the sides temperament. The manager doesnt inspire much confidence himself.
Yet if this team finally tastes World Cup success, it will be because a veteran group of world-class players take the tournament by its
horns and runs with it.
SQUAD
Goalkeepers:Boubacar Barry (Lokeren), Sylvain Gbohouo (Sewe Sport), Sayouba Sande (Stabaek).
Defenders:Kolo Toure (Liverpool), Sol Bamba (Trabzonspor), Didier Zokora (Trabzonspor), Serge Aurier (Toulouse), Arthur Boka
(Stuttgart), Ousmane Viera Diarrassouba (Caykur Rizespor), Constant Djakpa (Frankfurt), Jean-Daniel Akpa-Akpro (Toulouse).
Midfielders:Yaya Toure (Manchester City), Cheick Tiote (Newcastle), Serey Die (Basel), Max Gradel (Saint Etienne), Diomande Ismael
(Saint Etienne), Didier Ya Konan (Hannover), Mathis Bolly (Dusseldorf).
Forwards:Gervinho (Roma), Didier Drogba (Galatasaray), Salomon Kalou (Lille), Wilfried Bony (Swansea), Giovanni Sio (Basel).
THE KEY 3
Hes one of the foremost leaders of his country; can Didier Drogba give the world stage a final ode to remember? Yaya Toure is one of
the best midfielders in the world, if hes at his best, this team will reach the knockout round. Bamba is a starter for now, but will be be if
Kolo Toure decides to come out of international retirement?
PLUS: Can the defense hold up? How about Gervinho?
THE BOSS
SABRI LAMOUCHI - Ivory Coast is another African side that has appointed a manager with no previous coaching experience. Sabi
Lamouchi had a decent career in France as a player, before finishing his career in the Middle East. He was appointed after the Elephants
lost the 2012 AFCON Final on penalties. Lamouchis team is laden with veteran leadership, but ego and entitlement problems have
cropped up.
EXPECTATIONS
Quarterfinal - Theyve waited and waited and waited in the Ivory Coast for the dreams brought on by a true golden generation to
become a reality. In 2006 and 2010, Groups of Death ended their tournament early. Now, in a last hurrah for players like Drogba and
Toure, the Elephants have to deliver.
GROUP A
C
COLOMBIA
BRAZIL MEXICO
GREECE
CROATIA
IVORY COAST
CAMEROON
JAPAN
JAPAN
BRAZIL
"SELACAO"
"Samurai Blue"
PREVIEW
Japanese football is progressing rapidly. Since the nation got serious in advance of their hosting the 2002 World Cup with South Korea,
the game has grown, but not more so than in the last five or so years.
Talented players making splashes at big European clubs, and a steady stream of skillful attackers have carved out an international
identity for Japan. This is a team that plays good football, likes to keep the ball on the ground, and can score goals. At times, they lack a
bluntness and toughness that is found in all great teams, but that should come with time.
In 2010, Japan lost to Paraguay on penalties in the Round of 16, their best ever World Cup showing. This year, under famous Italian
boss Alberto Zaccheroni, theyll be looking to better that.
Many teams are overlooking Japan, but with a manageable group and an increasingly promising team, their time is approaching
quickly.
SQUAD
Goalkeepers:Eiji Kawashima (Standard Liege), Shusaku Nishikawa (Urawa Reds), Shuichi Gonda (FC Tokyo).
Defenders:Masato Morishige (FC Tokyo), Yasuyuki Konno (Gamba Osaka), Yuto Nagatomo (Inter Milan), Maya Yoshida
(Southampton), Masahiko Inoha (Jubilo Iwata), Atsuto Uchida (Schalke 04), Hiroki Sakai (Hannover 96), Gotoku Sakai (VfB Stuttgart).
Midfielders:Yasuhito Endo (Gamba Osaka), Keisuke Honda (AC Milan), Shinji Kagawa (Manchester United), Makoto Hasebe (FC
Nuremberg), Hiroshi Kiyotake (FC Nuremberg), Hotaru Yamaguchi (Cerezo Osaka), Toshihiro Aoyama (Sanfrecce Hiroshima), Manabu
Saito (Yokohama F Marinos).
Forwards:Shinji Okazaki (Mainz), Yoichiro Kakitani (Cerezo Osaka), Yuya Osako (TSV Munich 1860), Yoshito Okubo (Kawasaki
Frontale).
THE KEY 3
Kagawa has struggled all year for Man. Utd., but Japan need him in Brazil. Honda drove this team in their strong South African
showing, while Maeda plays up top where Japan has a dearth of ability.
PLUS: The defense is experienced, but aging, and the same goes for central midfield. This team will try to play football.
THE BOSS
ALBERTO ZACCHERONI - The Italian Zaccheroni has managed all the big clubs in Serie A, and he seems like an odd man to lead the
Samurai Blue. But Zaccheroni has impressed, guiding Japan to the honor of being the first team to qualify for Brazil 2014. Still, the
venerable coach will be judged on whether he can lead his team to success in the tournament.
EXPECTATIONS
Out of the Group - The Japanese sincerely believe that they are improving, with the J-League and national team becoming stronger each
cycle. While there are plenty of question marks, the Samurai want continued progress from South Africa, where they were a penalty
shootout away from the quarterfinal.
GROUP D
COSTA RICA ENGLAND ITALY URUGUAY
FIXTURES
Uruguay ___v___ Costa Rica
6/14 3ET ABC
England ___v___ Italy
6/14 6ET ESPN
Uruguay ___v___ England
6/19 3ET ESPN
Italy ___v___ Costa Rica
6/20 12ET ESPN
Costa Rica ___v___ England

Italy ___v___ Uruguay
6/24 12ET ESPN2

6/24 12ET ESPN
GROUP BESTS
Player Suarez, URU / Goalscorer Suarez, URU / Manager Prandelli ITA
Supporters ENG / Defense ITA / Attack URU / Depth ENG / Teamwork - ITA
Most Likely To See Red Campbell CRC / Passer Pirlo ITA / Leader Buffon ITA
BIGGEST MATCHES
MOST IMPORTANT GAME - Italy v. England - It gets good quickly in Group D, and this
battle in the sweltering heat of Manaus will be a major test of wills. Italy thoroughly
outplayed England at Euro 2012; the Three Lions must do better here.
BEST GAME -- England v. Uruguay - By the time these two square off, England will
probably have to attack. It should make for an entertaining and intense game and the
added plotline of Luis Suarez against the country that (mostly) hates him is salivating.
GROUP C
COSTA RICA
"Los Ticos"
PREVIEW
Back after a one-tournament absence, Costa Rica have, in recent years, established themselves as CONCACAFs third-wheel always
lagging behind the United States and Mexico.
They qualified quite comfortably for this tournament, capitalizing on Mexicos capitulation to become one of the very first teams to
secure their Brazilian passage. Costa Rica doesnt necessarily play the prettiest game; in fact, theyve often employed a back-five that
has shored up a once leaky defense.
But they dont have much star power, and overall talent and pace in the midfield and defense are huge question marks. Also: Can this
team keep the ball away from the lethal strikers in Group D?
Costa Rica is a country that has only made it out of the World Cup group stage once in Italy 90 and the draw was not kind to the
Ticos, placing them in one of the three Groups of Death. Theyll do well to make a fight of it.
SQUAD
Goalkeepers:Keylor Navas (Levante), Patrick Pemberton (Alajuelense) Daniel Cambronero (Herediano).
Defenders:Johnny Acosta (Alajuelense), Giancarlo Gonzalez (Columbus Crew), Michael Umana (Saprissa), Oscar Duarte (Bruges),
Waylon Francis (Columbus Crew), Heiner Mora (Saprissa), Junior Diaz (Mainz 05), Christian Gamboa (Rosenborg), Roy Miller (New
York Red Bulls).
Midfielders:Celso Borges (AIK), Christian Bolanos (Copenhagen), Esteban Granados (Herediano), Michael Barrantes (Aalesund),
Yeltsin Tejeda (Saprissa), Diego Calvo (Valerenga), Jose Miguel Cubero (Herediano).
Forwards:Bryan Ruiz (PSV Eindhoven, on loan from Fulham), Joel Campbell (Olympiakos, on loan from Arsenal), Randall Brenes
(Cartagines), Marco Urena (FC Kuban Krasnodar).
THE KEY 3
"Boris" Yeltsin Tejada will boss the Costa Rican midfield while Premier League eyes will be on Joel Campbell upfront. Another familiar
Premier League face is captain Bryan Ruiz, who will be counted on to shepard his nascent squad against three intercontinental titans
THE BOSS
JORGE LUIS PINTO - The Columbian is in his second spell coaching Costa Rica after a long career managing in South America. At only
55, Pinto hardly cuts an imposing figure on the sideline, but Costa Rica had their most comfortable World Cup qualification ever under
his watch. Pinto is assisted by one of Costa Ricas finest ever players, Paulo Wonchope.
EXPECTATIONS
Out of the Group - The Japanese sincerely believe that they are improving, with the J-League and national team becoming stronger each
cycle. While there are plenty of question marks, the Samurai want continued progress from South Africa, where they were a penalty
shootout away from the quarterfinal.
GROUP D
ENGLAND
"The Three Lions"
PREVIEW
In truth, England is at a low point. A golden generation that promised much came and went, getting no further than the quarterfinals of a
major tournament, and that generation has been replaced by a decidedly more mediocre one. Even as the Premier League roars, the
Three Lions flounder.
Outside of talisman Wayne Rooney who has never lit up a major tournament England dont have world-class players anymore. They
just have very good players. Their team doesnt play particularly pretty football, and the constant drum of negativity from the tabloid
press is draining.
Englands supporters are usually the most preeminent and numerous at World Cups, but the FA has failed to sellout its ticket allotment for
this years tournament. That speaks volumes about the mindset of the nation. Asked about Englands chances, Denmark coach Martin
Olsen said, I wish them good luck. Theyll need it.
However, low expectations are not necessarily a bad thing. The spotlight on England has been lessened, and there is a chance to
surprise people this summer. Because as pragmatic and dreary as the Brits are, If England win against Italy, that fleeting hope that
maybe, just maybe, this will be the year it all clicks will spring back into life.
SQUAD
Goalkeepers:Fraser Forster (Celtic), Ben Foster (West Bromwich Albion), Joe Hart (Manchester City).
Defenders:Leighton Baines (Everton), Gary Cahill (Chelsea), Phil Jagielka (Everton), Glen Johnson (Liverpool), Phil Jones (Manchester
United), Luke Shaw (Southampton), Chris Smalling (Manchester United).
Midfielders:Ross Barkley (Everton), Steven Gerrard, Jordan Henderson (both Liverpool), Adam Lallana (Southampton), Frank Lampard
(Chelsea), James Milner (Manchester City), Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (Arsenal), Raheem Sterling (Liverpool), Jack Wilshere (Arsenal).
Forwards:Rickie Lambert (Southampton), Wayne Rooney (Manchester United), Daniel Sturridge (Liverpool), Danny Welbeck
(Manchester United).
THE KEY 3
Rooney is Englands best player, and he has to be nothing short of brilliant if they want to progress. Hart is talented but temperamental,
his form is crucial, and this is it for Captain Gerrard. Does he have something special left in him?
PLUS: Sturridge made a huge leap this season; can he continue his hot form? Who will anchor the backline? Also: What role will
Liverpools great season have?
THE BOSS
ROY HODGSON - Not exactly one to inspire the masses, Hodgson guided England into the World Cup in the pragmatic style he has
become known for. Not a flashy manager in any sense, Hodgsons England camps have been devoid of the typical drama, but also of
real belief.
EXPECTATIONS
Quarterfinal - England expects Not very much this time. In fact, expectations havent been lower for the Three Lions in some time. Still,
the 1966 mentality ensures that the country wont be happy with just getting out of the group, a true measure of success for England in
this tournament. This is a decent England team a surprise run is possible, if not probable.
GROUP D
ITALY
"Azzurri"
PREVIEW
You can never really know with the Italians except its a lock that every 12 years, they will win the World Cup. 2018 will be their time,
but for now, who can say?
Cesare Prandelli has led a mini-revolution in Italian football over the last four years, turning the Azzuri into a higher-tempo, more attackoriented side, while fazing out all but a few Lions from the team that won the 2006 World Cup in Germany. Italys young generation
comes up in a time when Serie A is at an all-time low, and the team is almost completely domestically based.
Prandellis hopes lie with four lions and one firework Buffon, Chiellini, Di Rossi, and Pirlo are old battlers, while Mario Balotelli is by
far the brightest young Italian talent, but also a man who blew his house up with illegal fireworks.
Its strange to think that Italy is the second most successful national side ever, because they havent had the jaw-dropping players of the
other great countries over the years. In 2014, anything will be better than the disgrace of 2010, and this is a solid if not spectacular
team.
SQUAD
Goalkeepers:Gianluigi Buffon (Juventus), Salvatore Sirigu (Paris St-Germain), Mattia Perin (Genoa).
Defenders:Andrea Barzagli, Leonardo Bonucci, Giorigo Chiellini (all Juventus), Gabriel Paletta (Parma), Ignazio Abate, Mattia De
Sciglio (both AC Milan), Matteo Darmian (Torino).
Midfielders:Andrea Pirlo, Claudio Marchisio (both Juventus), Thiago Motta, Marco Verratti (both Paris St-Germain), Daniele De Rossi
(AS Roma), Antonio Candreva (Lazio), Marco Parolo (Parma), Alberto Aquilani (Fiorentina).
Forwards:Mario Balotelli (AC Milan), Antonio Cassano (Parma), Alessio Cerci (Torino), Ciro Immobile (Torino), Lorenzo Insigne
(Napoli).
THE KEY 3
There is no wild card in the game quite like Mario Balotelli in his first World Cup, how will he respond? Meanwhile, potential strike
partner, New Jersey born Giuseppe Rossi has had horrible injury luck, but hes having the best season of his career. Pirlo is an aging
magician, the closest thing to Zidane in the game today, but can he still run a major tournament?
PLUS: How good is that vaunted Italian defense? Buffon (the heart of Italy) and Chiellini will be good, but who else?
THE BOSS
CESARE PRANDELLI - Italy were in need of drastic change after their horror show in South Africa, and Prandelli delivered transforming
Italy from a brittle, defensive side to an attacking, possession-oriented one. The Azzuris run to the Euro 2012 final has brought back the
belief, now the thoughtful and the engaging Prandelli has a chance to become a household name.
EXPECTATIONS
Semifinal - Cesare Prandelli has revived the Forza Azzuri spirit in Italy, and while the talent on this team more closely resembles the epic
2010 flop than the 2006 championship run, the semifinal is within reach. If Italy can get through the group (they always start slow), a
fantastic collective spirit and that old defensive mentality could set up a deep run.
GROUP D
URUGUAY
"Los Charruas"
PREVIEW
Uruguay is in an interesting place. Four years ago at this time, they were a relative unknown after spending decades out of the limelight
of major international football. What happened in South Africa? Uruguay were the upset team of the tournament, making a controversial
run to the semi-final.
A year later, Uruguay won their first Copa America title since 1995. But since then, things have fallen off. Le Celeste labored through a
qualifying campaign that resulted in a playoff victory, and similarly labored at last summers Confederations Cup.
Certainly, Uruguay have brilliant individual players especially in attack: Luis Suarez is one of the best in the world, and Edison Cavani
isnt far behind. But there is a big gulf between those players and the teams defense and midfield.
Uruguay could catch fire, or they may weakly go out with a few points after the group stage, but theyll like their chances. After all, the
last time the World Cup was played in Brazil, Uruguay beat the hosts 2-1 in the final at the Maracaa, a loss that still haunts Uruguays
neighbors today.
SQUAD
Goalkeepers:Fernando Muslera (Galatasaray), Martin Silva (Vasco da Gama), Rodrigo Munoz (Libertad).
Defenders:Maximiliano Pereira (Benfica), Diego Lugano (West Bromwich Albion), Diego Godin, Jose Maria Gimenez (both Atletico
Madrid), Sebastian Coates (Liverpool), Martin Caceres (Juventus), Jorge Fucile (Porto).
Midfielders:Alvaro Gonzalez (Lazio), Alvaro Pereira (Sao Paulo), Walter Gargano (Parma), Egidio Arevalo Rios (Morelia), Diego
Perez (Bologna), Cristian Rodriguez (Atletico Madrid), Gaston Ramirez (Southampton), Nicolas Lodeiro (Botafogo).
Forwards:Luis Suarez (Liverpool), Edinson Cavani (Paris St-Germain), Abel Hernandez (Palermo), Diego Forlan (Cerezo Osaka),
Christian Stuani (Espanyol).
THE KEY 3
Suarez is Uruguays biggest hope: If he takes over the tournament, they are contenders. Godin has to anchor a shaky backline in front
of Muslera, who may be a breakout player in this tournament.
PLUS: The central midfield trio is weak. Can 2010s best player Forlan recapture the magic?
THE BOSS
OSCAR TABAREZ - Known as The Teacher, Tabarez is responsible for Uruguays two most successful World Cup campaigns since the
country won the first two tournaments. He has transformed the program since taking over for a second spell in 2006, and there is faith
abound in the 66 year old, who guided Uruguay through a difficult qualification campaign.
EXPECTATIONS
Semifinal - Uruguay always expects great things after all, as theyd tell you, only a handful of other countries have won the trophy
twice. Coming off a semifinal run in 2010, and in a South American World Cup, big things are once again called for, if not entirely
reasonably.
GROUP E
ECUADOR FRANCE HONDURAS SWITZERLAND
FIXTURES
Switzerland ___v___ Ecuador
France ___v___ Honduras
6/15 12ET ABC

6/15 3ET ABC
Switzerland ___v___ France
6/20 3ET ESPN
Honduras ___v___ Ecuador
6/20 6ET ESPN
Ecuador ___v___ France
6/25 4ET ESPN
Honduras ___v___ Switzerland 6/25 4ET ESPN2
GROUP BESTS
Player Ribery, FRA / Goalscorer Benzema, FRA / Manager Hitzfeld, SUI
Supporters FRA / Defense ECU / Attack FRA / Depth FRA / Teamwork - SUI
Most Likely To See Red Bernardez HON / Passer Cabaye / FRA Leader Valencia ECU
BIGGEST MATCHES
MOST IMPORTANT GAME -- France v. Honduras - Frances opening game is important
just see where Les Blues collective head is at. Traditionally slow starters; three quick
French points could kick-start a surprise campaign.
BEST GAME -- Switzerland v. France - On paper, these two teams are clearly the
strongest in Group E. This game will most likely be the best played from the group, and
the loser may just struggle to qualify over spunky Ecuador.
GROUP E
ECUADOR
"La Tri"
PREVIEW
Ecuador dont have the kind of history and talent that many of the fancied South American teams at this tournament have, but La Tri
have a lot to play for. Christian Benitez, an Ecuador striker, checked into a hospital in Doha complaining of pain in July 2013. He died
just hours later. Benitez was 27 years old.
Following the tragedy, Ecuador retired Chuchos #11. Benitez played for the national team 58 times, including at the 2006 World
Cup, Ecuadors best ever performance in the competition.
His memory is the driving force behind this teams World Cup journey, and its a story that has been underreported around the world.
On the field, the spirit of that 2006 run is what Ecuador will be trying to recapture.
Their group is manageable enough. Ecuador should beat Honduras, and then it will be up to this South American team to slay a
European side either France or Switzerland for that last place in the knockout round. Whatever happens, it will be done in Benitezs
name.
SQUAD
Goalkeepers:Maximo Banguera (Barcelona SC), Alexander Dominguez (LDU Quito), Adrian Bone (El Nacional).
Defenders:Frickson Erazo (Flamengo), Jorge Guagua, Oscar Bagui, Gabriel Achilier (all Emelec), Walter Ayovi (Pachuca), Juan Carlos
Paredes (Barcelona SC).
Midfielders:Segundo Castillo (Al-Hilal), Carlos Gruezo (Stuttgart), Renato Ibarra (Vitesse Arnhem), Cristian Noboa (Dynamo Moscow),
Luis Saritama (Barcelona SC), Antonio Valencia (Manchester United), Edison Mendez (Independiente Santa Fe), Fidel Martinez
(Tijuana), Michael Arroyo (Atlante).
Forwards:Felipe Caicedo (Al-Jazira), Jefferson Montero (Morelia), Joao Rojas (Cruz Azul), Jaime Ayovi (Tijuana), Enner Valencia
(Pachuca).
THE KEY 3
Antonio Valencia is Ecuadors most famous player by far, but its Montero who could take the mantle from him after this tournament.
Dominguez will play a key role in net.
PLUS: Ecuador like to play a fast, high-pressure game, so fitness in the Brazilian heat will be huge. Ecuador have one of the most settled
teams in the tournament.
THE BOSS
REINALDO RUEDA - Rueda is another coach who has cycled through international jobs in the Americas, managing Columbia, Honduras,
and now Ecuador. Rueda took Honduras to the 2010 World Cup, but their performance there was very poor. Hes done well to guide
Ecuador back to the World Cup, and beating old side Honduras will be key if his team wants to advance from the group stage.
EXPECTATIONS
Out of the Group - Ecuador certainly arent up to the standards of their South American footballing brethren, and they know that. But
the last time Ecuador went to a World Cup they advanced from the Group Stage, and in South America this time, theyll be hoping to do
the same.
GROUP
GROUP A
E
ECUADOR
SWITZERLAND
BRAZILFRANCE
MEXICOHONDURAS
CROATIA CAMEROON
FRANCE
BRAZIL
"SELACAO"
"Les Bleus"
PREVIEW
They are without a shadow of a doubt, the strangest, most enigmatic, maddening, enlightening, frustrating, entertaining wreck in world
football. France run so hot and so cold, it seems theyll either dazzle and reach the final of the World Cup, or spectacularly get bounced
from the group stage.
But thats just how it goes with France, one of the blue bloods of the game. In qualification, they were listless and went down 2-0 in the
playoff against Ukraine. In a poll taken before the second leg of that playoff, over 80% of the exasperated and disgruntled French
population thought they stood no chance of reaching Brazil.
So it makes sense that France won the second leg at the Stade de France 3-0, and were dropped into the easiest group in the
tournament. Expect the unexpected.
Talent wise, this team is far better than that which disgraced the entire country with a handball, dramatics and a player coup dtat in
2010, and far worse than the Zinedine Zidane inspired side that reached the 2006 final.
With Ballon dOr finalist Franck Ribery and plenty of firepower around the field, the question is which France will show up? We can
guess that they wont fall at the first hurdle, or get to the final this time, but within those parameters, its anyones guess.
SQUAD
Goalkeepers:Hugo Lloris (Tottenham Hotspur), Stephane Ruffier (Marseille), Mickael Landreau (Bastia).
Defenders:Mathieu Debuchy (Newcastle), Lucas Digne (Paris St-Germain) Patrice Evra (Manchester United), Laurent Koscielny, Bacary
Sagna (both Arsenal), Eliaquim Mangala (Porto), Mamadou Sakho (Liverpool), Raphael Varane (Real Madrid).
Midfielders:Yohan Cabaye, Blaise Matuidi (both Paris St-Germain), Clement Grenier (Lyon), Rio Mavuba (Lille), Paul Pogba (Juventus),
Moussa Sissoko (Newcastle), Mathieu Valbuena (Marseille).
Forwards:Karim Benzema (Real Madrid), Olivier Giroud (Arsenal), Antoine Griezmann (Real Sociedad), Loic Remy (Newastle, on loan
from QPR), Franck Ribery (Bayern Munich).
THE KEY 3
Ribery has somewhat quietly become one of the worlds best, if his attitude is right, hell dominate this group. Frances good teams
always have a central midfield beast, is Pogba the new Viera? And by that token, is Varane the new Thuram?
PLUS: Evra is a true leader, but can he still cut it here?
THE BOSS
DIDIER DESCHAMPS - The man who captained Les Blues to their only World Cup championship, Deschamps was a legendary player and
is a solid coach but in qualifying he almost went the way of other recent French managers in embarrassing, quarreling flames. How
Deschamps controls the impossible France dressing room is key. It was Patrice Evra, after all, who gave the decisive team-talk during
qualification.
EXPECTATIONS
Quarterfinal - The schedule sets up nicer for France than any other team in the tournament. Just before the final qualifier, 8 out of 10
people in France thought the team wouldnt even get to Brazil. But after that 3-0 win over Ukraine and the draw, belief is returning. As
always with the French, it could either go spectacularly or horribly, but it will be entertaining.
GROUP E
HONDURAS
"Los Catrachos"
PREVIEW
Its a bit of a golden era for Honduras. Having only made one World Cup in their history before qualifying in 2010, the small Central
American nation is now making their second consecutive appearance at the Finals.
The expansion of the World Cup field and CONCACAFs added qualifying spots mean that the Hondurans are a reasonably established
side these days now the next step is producing on the world stage.
The trip to South Africa four years ago was an unqualified disaster for Honduras, who amassed a measly one point and failed to score a
single goal in their three group games, one of only two teams at the 2010 World Cup to be held scoreless.
While the football-crazy country doesnt expect their national team to advance from the group stage, they are expected to put up a real
fight in 2014. While there are no stars or big guns, Honduras have some capable players on a team that is trying to go further than ever
before.
SQUAD
Goalkeepers:Noel Valladares, Donis Escober (both Olimpia), Luis Lopez (Real Espana).
Defenders:Brayan Beckeles (Olimpia), Emilio Izaguirre (Celtic), Juan Carlos Garcia (Wigan), Maynor Figueroa (Hull), Victor Bernardez
(San Jose Earthquakes), Osman Chavez (Qingdao Janoon), Juan Pablo Montes (Motagua).
Midfielders:Edder Delgado (Real Espana), Luis Garrido (Olimpia), Roger Espinoza (Wigan), Jorge Claros (Motagua), Wilson Palacios
(Stoke), Oscar Garcia (Houston Dynamo), Andy Najar (Anderlecht), Mario Martinez (Real Espana), Marvin Chavez (Chivas USA).
Forwards:Jerry Bengtson (New England Revolution), Jerry Palacios (Alajuelense), Carlo Costly (Real Espana), Rony Martinez (Real
Sociedad).
THE KEY 3
In a squad flush with MLS players, the enforcer Bernardez has to anchor the backline. Palacios career has stalled, but he remains a key
player for the national team, as does Espinoza, the former Kansas City player who won the FA Cup with Wigan.
PLUS: Defense and consistency are a strongpoint; goals may be harder to come by.
THE BOSS
LUIZ FERNANDO SUAREZ - There are all kinds of connections in Group E, as Suarez will face the Ecuadorian team he led to a banner
2006 World Cup. Now in charge of the plucky Hondurans, who qualified comfortably enough Brazil, Suarez will hope to use his World
Cup experience and knowledge of South America to go one better than the man in charge of his old team, Reinaldo Rueda, did in 2010.
EXPECTATIONS
Anything Is Gravy - Honduras has never advanced from the group stage of the World Cup, and they dont have the talent nor the
infrastructure or experience to make a run this time. If this team can win a game in Brazil, the tournament will be a success.
GROUP E
SWITZERLAND
"La Nati"
PREVIEW
When Switzerland were seeded as one of the top eight teams on the planet for the World Cup draw in December, people snickered.
That Switzerland would be seeded just went to show how laughable the FIFA World Rankings were and are.
But the Swiss didnt see the funny side. So often a nice, middling little team, matching their countrywide persona, getting a World Cup
seed was a proud moment for Switzerland, a country that have never made a quarterfinal in a major tournament they didnt host.
Switzerland have some exciting young talent, an outgoing legend of a manager, and real hope to advance from the World Cup group
stage for only the third time since 1954. In all likelihood, its only Honduras and Ecuador in their way, along with France. Thats the top
seed talking.
In soccer, Switzerland doesnt expect much. But in 2014, a little respect would be nice.
SQUAD
Goalkeepers:Diego Benaglio (Wolfsburg), Roman Buerki (Grasshopper), Yann Sommer (Basel).
Defenders:Johan Djourou (Hamburg), Michael Lang (Grasshopper), Stephan Lichtsteiner (Juventus), Ricardo Rodriguez (Wolfsburg),
Fabian Schaer (Basel), Philippe Senderos (Valencia), Steve von Bergen (Young Boys), Reto Ziegler (Sassuolo).
Midfielders:Tranquillo Barnetta (Eintracht Frankfurt), Valon Behrami (Napoli), Blerim Dzemaili (Napoli), Gelson Fernandes (Freiburg),
Gokhan Inler (Napoli), Xherdan Shaqiri (Bayern Munich), Valentin Stocker (Basel).
Forwards:Josip Drmic (Nuremberg), Mario Gavranovic (Zurich), Admir Mehmedi (Freiburg), Haris Seferovic (Real Sociedad), Granit
Xhaka (Borussia Monchengladbach).
THE KEY 3
Switzerlands strength isnt defense: They drew Iceland 4-4 in qualifying. Djourou, an Arsenal also ran, needs to play well. Inler is a star
in the making, as is Shaqiri of Bayern Munich.
PLUS: Goalkeeping could be a problem. The left wing will be a certain strength, but who can finish in front of the net with Alexander Frei
retired?
THE BOSS
OTTMAR HITZFIELD - He won everything with Borussia Dortmund and then Bayern Munich to become one of the most successful coaches
in German history. Hitzfelds time in charge of Switzerland has been more underwhelming, but the team has rebounded from failing to
qualify for Euro 2012 to become a seed at the 2014 World Cup. Hitzfeld will retire after the tournament, and there is incentive to send
the coach out in style.
EXPECTATIONS
Out of the Group - The Swiss havent had much major tournament success recently, and as usual, they have a decent team that doesnt
menace. But it could be now or never a great draw plus a legendary retiring coach means Switzerland has to deliver in 2014.
GROUP F
ARGENTINA BOSNIA IRAN NIGERIA
FIXTURES
Argentina ___v___ Bosnia
6/15 6ET ESPN
Iran ___v___ Nigeria
6/16 3ET ESPN
Argentina ___v___ Iran
6/21 12ET ESPN
Nigeria ___v___ Bosnia
6/21 6ET ESPN
Bosnia ___v___ Iran

Nigeria ___v___ Argentina
6/25 12ET ESPN2

6/25 12ET ESPN
GROUP BESTS
Player Messi ARG / Goalscorer Messi ARG / Manager Keshi NIG
Supporters ARG / Defense ARG / Attack ARG / Depth ARG / Teamwork BIH
Most Likely To See Red Mascherano ARG / Passer Messi ARG / Leader Spahic -BIH
BIGGEST MATCHES
MOST IMPORTANT GAME -- Bosnia & Herzegovina v. Nigeria - This is the battle for
second place, and its between a very likable team in Bosnia, and a very unlikable
team in Nigeria.
BEST GAME -- Argentina v. Bosnia & Herzegovina - Both teams love to attack for 90
minutes. Messi has only scored one World Cup goal he may quadruple his total in
this game.
GROUP F
ARGENTINA
"La Albiceleste"
PREVIEW
While you wouldnt want to raise this question too loudly on the streets of Buenos Aires, its a question that comes to mind more and
more: Is Argentina Brazils little brother?
The two countries have not so much enjoyed as they have battled in one of the greatest rivalries in world football for almost a century,
but the facts tell a grim tale for Argentina: The Albiceleste have reached three World Cup finals, and won two. Brazil have reached
seven finals, and won five.
Now, with the tournament in Brazil, Argentina has a golden chance. Lifting the trophy at the Maracana would cripple Brazil and
reestablish Argentina among the worlds elite.
They certainly have enough firepower to do it: Up top names like Aguero, Higuian, Lavezzi, and Messi mean that Carlos Tevez cant
even get onto the team. Of the four favorites, Argentina have the weakest defense, midfield and coaching, but Messi could win the
tournament by himself if hes healthy and make himself the greatest player of all-time. Just outside the main South American spotlight,
Argentina has a chance to have a summer for the ages.
SQUAD
Goalkeepers:Sergio Romero (Sampdoria), Mariano Andujar (Catania), Agustin Orion (Boca Juniors).
Defenders:Pablo Zabaleta (Manchester City), Federico Fernandez (Napoli), Ezequiel Garay (Benfica), Marcos Rojo (Sporting Lisbon),
Hugo Campagnaro (Inter Milan), Martin Demichelis (Manchester City), Jose Basanta (Monterrey).
Midfielders:Javier Mascherano (Barcelona), Fernando Gago (Boca Juniors), Lucas Biglia (Lazio), Ricardo Alvarez (Inter Milan),
Augusto Fernandez (Celta Vigo), Angel Di Maria (Real Madrid), Maxi Rodriguez (Newell's Old Boys), Enzo Perez (Benfica).
Forwards:Lionel Messi (Barcelona), Gonzalo Higuain (Napoli), Sergio Aguero (Manchester City), Rodrigo Palacio (Inter Milan),
Ezequiel Lavezzi (Paris St-Germain).
THE KEY 3
To become the greatest player in the world, Messi has to win the World Cup. Otherwise, the magician is still behind Maradona.
Mascherano is the defense, a screen between midfield and backline, and Di Maria is a change of pace, Argentinas wide threat.
PLUS: Garay has to be big for a young Argentina backline, Man. Citys Zabaleta is that backlines best player. His City teammate
Aguero is a Golden Boot threat.
THE BOSS
ALEJANDRO SABELLA - Compared to Diego Maradona, anyone would look good. But career assistant Alejandro Sabella is an
interesting boss. Appointed after Argentinas flameout at the 2011 Copa America, Sabella has gotten Argentians attack firing and
restored a sense of order and normalcy in the camp. But he has no tournament experience this is only his second managerial job
and the defense remains a question.
EXPECTATIONS
Champions - Argentinas glory days are drifting further and further away. They havent gotten past the quarterfinal since 1990. But this
Argentina side is so full of attacking talent and energy; its impossible not to dream. Add in Messi who they fully believe will dominate
this tournament and the tantalizing, once-in-a-lifetime prospect of lifting the cup in Brazil, and its victory or bust for Argentina.
GROUP F
BOSNIA
"Zmajevi"
PREVIEW
Before stepping onto the field in Brazil, this Bosnia and Herzegovina team has made history: They are the first Bosnian team to reach the
World Cup finals, and the only first-time participant in the field this summer.
Of course, Bosnia is also the youngest country at these finals. The team only played their first officially sanctioned FIFA match 19 years
ago in the midst of the Bosnian War. Formerly a part of old football power Yugoslavia, Bosnia have a strong tradition its just not their
own.
In the war-torn Balkan country, everything good has come with a price, and in this qualification for the World Cup, that tragic norm has
held. Three young Bosnian fans were killed in a car crash when traveling home from a qualifier against Romania.
This tournament obviously means a lot. In a soccer sense, Bosnia have made great strides in the last few years after losing in playoffs to
Portugal to make the last two major tournaments. They have a skillful, tightly knit team and are often involved in high-scoring matches.
The world will be pulling for them in Brazil.
SQUAD
Goalkeepers:Asmir Begovic (Stoke City), Asmir Avdukic (Borac Banja Luka), Jasmin Fejzic (VFR Aalen).
Defenders:Emir Spahic (Bayer Leverkusen), Toni Sunjic (Zorya Lugansk), Sead Kolasinac (Schalke), Ognjen Vranjes (Elazigspor), Ermin
Bicakcic (Eintracht Braunschweig), Muhamed Besic (Ferencvaros), Mensur Mujdza (Freiburg).
Midfielders:Miralem Pjanic (Roma), Izet Hajrovic (Galatasaray), Haris Medunjanin (Gaziantepspor), Senad Lulic (Lazio), Anel Hadzic
(Sturm), Tino Susic (Hajduk), Sejad Salihovic (Hoffenheim), Zvjezdan Misimovic (Guizhour Renhe), Senijad Ibricic (Erciyesspor), Avdija
Vrsaljevic (Hajduk).
Strikers:Vedad Ibisevic (VfB Stuttgart), Edin Dzeko (Manchester City), Edin Visca (Istanbul BB).
THE KEY 3
Clearly, Dzeko is the face of his team and possibly his country. Pjanic pulls the strings out of the midfield, and Ibisevic should have a ton
of chances playing off Dzeko up top.
PLUS: The is one of the most attack-oriented teams in the tournament, but things will only work if the defense holds up. Theyre confident
in Begovic in goal.
THE BOSS
SAFET SUSIC - Hell forever be regarded as a national hero in Bosnia and Herzegovina for taking the national team to their first major
tournament as an independent country. A native of Bosnia, and widely regarded as one of the best players to ever come out of the old
Yugoslavia, Susic has crafted an attacking force that will look to make more history in Brazil.
EXPECTATIONS
Out of the Group - Normally in a countries first World Cup appearance, just being involved in the party is good enough. For Bosnia, that
will apply to some extent. Going to the World Cup is a huge achievement for a country just years removed from war and independence,
and that is recognized. But this team has a chance: A good attack and a soft group means the knockout stages are in sight.
GROUP F
IRAN
"Team Melli"
PREVIEW
Iran make another appearance at the FIFA World Cup after an eventful few years that including bringing on former Real Madrid and
Manchester United man Carlos Queiroz as manager, a scandal involving election protests, and a gruff if successful qualification
campaign.
In many ways, Iran are a watered-down version of what North Korea was to the 2010 World Cup. After all, its Iran who took Korea
DPRs place, and while Iran is a less extreme country politically and a much stiffer drink on the field, its possible that Iran like North
Korea will be the worst team at the World Cup.
In short, there just isnt enough talent on this team. Their players do not play in major leagues, and there is no star to lead the way. Of
course, Queiroz has added a vision hes brought in dual nationals, shored up the teams defense and gotten the to the World Cup
but advancing beyond the group stage would be a miracle. The likes of Messi and Dzeko are licking their chops.
SQUAD
Goalkeepers:Daniel Davari (Eintracht Braunschweig), Alireza Haghighi (Sporting Covilha, on loan from Rubin Kazan), Rahman Ahmadi
(Sepahan).
Defenders:Hossein Mahini (Persepolis), Steven Beitashour (Vancouver Whitecaps), Pejman Montazeri (Umm Salal), Jalal Hosseini
(Persepolis), Amir-Hossein Sadeghi (Esteghlal), Ahmad Alenemeh (Naft), Hashem Beikzadeh (Esteghlal), Mehrdad Pouladi (Persepolis).
Midfielders:Javad Nekounam (Kuwait SC), Andranik Teymourian (Esteghlal), Reza Haghighi (Persepolis), Ghasem Haddadifar (Zob
Ahan), Bakhtiar Rahmani (Foolad), Ehsan Hajsafi (Sepahan).
Forwards:Ashkan Dejagah (Fulham), Masoud Shojaei (Las Palmas), Alireza Jahanbakhsh (NEC Nijmegen), Reza Ghoochannejhad
(Charlton), Karim Ansarifard (Tractor Saz, on loan from Persepolis), Khosro Heydari (Esteghlal).
THE KEY 3
Its not risky to say that Davari will face a lot of shots in Brazil, he has to stand strong. Beitashour just started playing for the Iranians this
year after switching over from the USA, and its up to Nekounam to slow the game down in the midfield.
PLUS: Wheres the match-winner on this team? Who do you hang your hat on?
THE BOSS
CARLOS QUEIROZ - From Real Madrid to Iran, its been a long fall for Carlos Queiroz, who is still most notable for his work as Sir Alex
Fergusons long-time assistant at Manchester United. As a manager, Queiroz has been in many enviable positions, but he has failed to
capitalize. Now, with Iran, Queiroz has a chance to rectify his muddied reputation, but dour tactics and a prickly attitude may yet again
reign.
EXPECTATIONS
Anything Is Gravy - Not much is expected of Iran. Their talent pool is among the weakest in the tournament, and its very possible that
they go home with no points. If Quiroezs team can avoid that ignominy, the tournament will be a success.
GROUP F
NIGERIA
"The Super Eagles"
PREVIEW
Early in 2013, the Super Eagles won the African Cup of Nations. The Cup of Nations is a huge deal in Africa, a continental tournament
for bragging rights that goes beyond that of qualifying for the World Cup.
The triumph was soccer-mad Nigerias first since 1994, but the country was lucky to take part in the competition at all. Just three years
before, after the Super Eagles disappointed at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, the President of Nigeria, a man named I kid you
not Goodluck Jonathan, banned the team from playing for two years.
After FIFA threatened to wipe Nigeria off the footballing planet for political interference, the ban was withdrawn. But lawsuits flew,
and damage was done. It was comical, and common.
The Nigerian Football Federation has been involved in scandals involving bribery and crime for years, and a day after the Cup of
Nations win, the manager resigned because he wasnt being paid. As for the team that will go to Brazil, its a solid, if unspectacular one.
The best bet for fireworks is again off the field.
SQUAD
Goalkeepers:Vincent Enyeama (Lille), Austin Ejide (Hapoel Be'er Sheva), Chigozie Agbim (Gombe United).
Defenders:Elderson Echiejile (Monaco), Efe Ambrose (Celtic), Godfrey Oboabona (Rizespor), Azubuike Egwuekwe (Warri Wolves),
Kenneth Omeruo (Middlesbrough), Juwon Oshaniwa (Ashdod), Joseph Yobo (Norwich, on loan from Fenerbahce), Kunle Odunlami
(Sunshine Stars).
Midfielders:John Mikel Obi (Chelsea), Ramon Azeez (Almeria), Ogenyi Onazi (Lazio), Reuben Gabriel (Waasland-Beveren), Michael
Babatunde (Volyn Lutsk).
Forwards:Ahmed Musa (CSKA Moscow), Shola Ameobi (Newcastle), Emmanuel Emenike (Fenerbahce), Michael Uchebo (Cercle
Brugge), Peter Odemwingie (Stoke), Victor Moses (Liverpool, on loan from Chelsea), Uche Nwofor (Heerenveen).
THE KEY 3
Enyeama is the long-serving captain, and lets just say leadership will be key for these guys. Mikel missed the 2010 World Cup, and it
hurt, his presence will be key. And every team needs goals, Emenike is Nigerias best bet.
PLUS: The defense is the weakpoint for this team, which needs better attitudes from big players.
THE BOSS
STEPHAN KESHI - Under farcical circumstances with Nigeria, Keshi is breath of fresh air. Hes somehow guided his team and himself
through a period of seven months when he was not paid, a power-struggle after the team won the African Cup of Nations, and incessant
controversy and negativity. Experience in African coaching helps. Keshi, a former Nigeria captain, is sane enough to do this job and do
it well.
EXPECTATIONS
Quarterfinal - Nigeria usually go into World Cups thinking well beyond their means. With all the internal turmoil, its going to be a
victory if they get to Brazil in one piece, but the Super Eagles fans believe their team has the quality to go toe to toe with any in the
world. If Nigeria fails to do that, theyll feel the wrath of their nation.
GROUP G
GERMANY GHANA PORTUGAL USA
FIXTURES
Germany ___v___ Por tugal
6/16 12ET ESPN
Ghana ___v___ USA
6/16 6ET ESPN
Germany ___v___ Ghana
6/21 3ET ESPN
USA ___v___ Por tugal
6/22 6ET ESPN
Por tugal ___v___ Ghana

USA ___v___ Germany
6/26 12ET ESPN2

6/26 12ET ESPN
GROUP BESTS
Player Ronaldo POR / Goalscorer Ronaldo POR / Manager Low, GER
Supporters USA / Defense POR / Attack GER / Depth GER / Teamwork - USA
Most Likely To See Red Pepe POR / Passer Schweinsteiger GER / Leader Lahm GER
BIGGEST MATCHES
MOST IMPORTANT GAME -- Ghana v. USA - Its rare that the first group game is a true
must-win for both teams playing, but thats what Ghana USA in Natal is for sure.
Factor in that Ghana has knocked the US out of the last two World Cups, and a galactic
occasion is on the horizon.
BEST GAME -- Germany v. Portugal - The two European heavyweights in this group will
both be feeling the heat of facing the top teams from Africa and CONCACAF
respectively. Portugal Germany games are always intense, and this has huge
implications.
GROUP G
GERMANY
"Die Mannschaft"
PREVIEW
The reboot of German football started by Jurgen Klinsmann and continued for the last eight years by Jogi Low has transformed the
national team from one of steely, defensive precision to one of swashbuckling attacking football.
Theyre certainly easier on the eye. With a young generation of attacking gems like Mesut Ozil and Thomas Muller, Germany has never
played better football. And since that great reboot, that football has gotten them close to ultimate glory, but thats all.
To be sure, Lows team is a tournament favorite heading in. They breezed through qualifying, and with Spains recent struggles, are
probably the best team in Europe.
Yes, Germany can score with anyone but questions linger about their defense and their big game mentality. The makeup of this team
seems entirely un-German, and so perhaps its fitting that a little clinical, fearless cold-blooded disposition will be needed to get them
over the finish line in Brazil.
SQUAD
Goalkeepers:Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich), Roman Weidenfeller (Borussia Dortmund), Ron-Robert Zieler (Hannover)
Defenders:Jerome Boateng (Bayern Munich), Erik Durm (Borussia Dortmund), Kevin Grosskreutz (Borussia Dortmund), Benedikt
Howedes (Schalke), Mats Hummels (Borussia Dortmund), Philipp Lahm (Bayern Munich), Per Mertesacker (Arsenal).
Midfielders:Julian Draxler (Schalke), Matthias Ginter (Freiburg), Mario Gotze (Bayern Munich), Christoph Kramer (Borussia
Monchengladbach), Sami Khedira (Real Madrid), Toni Kroos (Bayern Munich), Thomas Muller (Bayern Munich), Mesut Ozil (Arsenal),
Marco Reus (Borussia Dortmund), Andre Schurrle (Chelsea), Bastian Schweinsteiger (Bayern Munich).
Forwards:Miroslav Klose (Lazio), Lukas Podolski (Arsenal).
THE KEY 3
Schweinsteiger is a wily veteran at this point the attack runs through him. The vastly underappreciated Klose needs only one goal to
become the World Cups all-time leading goal-scorer, and Mertersacker has been shaky at times for his country.
PLUS: Lahm is terrific, as is Neuer. Weaknesses? The right side of the team is just a little bit vulnerable, and the defense isnt rock solid
either.
THE BOSS
JOACHIM LOW - On the surface, it would appear Low is as untouchable a manager as they come: Boss since 2006, the suave German
has turned the national team into a stylish attacking force and made three consecutive deep tournament runs. Patience, however, is
running out. Low has to deliver the trophy this time around, or questions about poor tactical decisions and big-game failures will become
deafening.
EXPECTATIONS
Champions - Theyve come very close in recent years. Now, the young team that lit up the 2010 tournament has matured, and their time
has come.
GROUP G
GHANA
"Black Stars"
PREVIEW
Ghana is a real success story of international soccer. Unknown on the world stage until 2006, the progressive African country burst onto
the scene in Germany, and came within the hand of Luis Suarez and a crossbar of the semifinal of the 2010 tournament in South Africa.
Of course, along the way in both of those tournaments, Ghana ended the USAs hopes, so it figures that when the death draw was
handed down in December, midfielder Kwado Asamoah said he saw foremost those USA people again. He knows that the third time
may be the charm between these unlikeliest of rivals.
But Ghana believe they can beat anyone in the world. With a fantastic top seven, this is one of the most talented attacking units to ever
come out of Africa. The 2010 team was a young one, it has now matured.
However, defense may be the difference between success and failure. Ghanas defense is beyond weak, and that could be fatal in
Group G. Either way, theyre sure to play more thrilling football matches in Brazil.
SQUAD
Goalkeepers:Fatau Dauda (Orlando Pirates), Adam Kwarasey (Stromsgodset), Stephen Adams (Aduana Stars).
Defenders:Samuel Inkoom (Platanias), Daniel Opare (Standard Liege), Harrison Afful (Esperance), John Boye (Rennes), Jonathan
Mensah (Evian), Rashid Sumalia (Mamelodi Sundowns).
Midfielders:Michael Essien (AC Milan), Sulley Muntari (AC Milan), Rabiu Mohammed (Kuban Krasnodar), Kwadwo Asamoah
(Juventus), Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu (Udinese), Afriyie Acquah (Parma), Christian Atsu (Vitesse), Albert Adomah (Middlesbrough),
Andre Ayew (Marseille), Mubarak Wakaso (Rubin Kazan).
Forwards:Asamoah Gyan (Al Ain), Kevin-Prince Boateng (Schalke 04), Abdul Majeed Waris (Valenciennes), Jordan Ayew (Sochaux).
THE KEY 3
Michael Essien is the best player in Ghanas footballing history, but hes gotten old and isnt the physical specimen he once was.
Akaminko is at the heart of a fragile defense, while Gyan carried Ghana in 2006 and 2010. Does he have more magic?
PLUS: Goalkeeper is a weakness for Ghana, especially in Group G, while this teams attack is one of the best in the tournament.
THE BOSS
AKWASI APPIAH - Upon being appointed Ghana manager in 2012, Appiah described himself as an underdog for the role. This job is
Appiahs first ever, and to say there is little confidence in him is fair after a poor showing at the African Cup of Nations, Ghanas FA
put him through a coaching clinic, and they have even explored replacing him. Its a big ask for Appiah to conquer the Group of Death.
EXPECTATIONS
Quarterfinal - Ghana appear to be Africas best hope to fly the flag. They were just a kick away from the semifinal in 2010, theyve
made it out of the Group Stage in their two World Cup appearances, and they feel they have their best team yet. Ghana dont want to
take a step backwards in 2014.
GROUP G
PORTUGAL
"Selecao"
PREVIEW
Portugal have only ever had two great World Cup teams. They were both semifinalists, in 1966, and 2006. Its only recently that
Portugal has been thought of as a footballing power. Its a team that has only advanced from the group stage of the World Cup three
times ever, less than their Group G opponents USA.
But Portugal were viewed differently the moment Cristiano Ronaldo stepped onto the pitch at Euro 2004, and since then, hes gotten
better and better and better. Now, hes the best in the world, and he dragged a distractible and lackadaisical Portugal team by the chinhair to the World Cup.
Without Ronaldo, Portugal dont beat Sweden in a playoff and get to Brazil. But Ronaldo scored all the goals over two legs, and the
Selacao (they share a nickname with close neighbor Brazil) made it. No one in Portugal will tell you this is a vintage side they are
totally inconsistent and have no forward, a dodgy midfield, and a shaky backline but confidence is high simply because of #7.
In a year when Eusebio, a man many Portuguese consider greater than Ronaldo, passed away, perhaps its now that Cristiano conquers
the World Cup.
SQUAD
Goalkeepers:Beto (Sevilla), Eduardo (Braga), Rui Patricio (Sporting).
Defenders:Andre Almeida (Benfica), Bruno Alves (Fenerbahce), Fabio Coentreo (Real Madrid), Joao Pereira (Valencia), Neto (Zenit),
Pepe (Real Madrid), Ricardo Costa (Valencia).
Midfielders:Joao Moutinho (Monaco), Miguel Veloso (Dinamo Kiev), Raul Meireles (Fenerbahce), Ruben Amorim (Benfica), William
Carvalho (Sporting).
Forwards:Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid), Eder (SC Braga), Helder Postiga (Lazio), Hugo Almeida (Besiktas), Nani (Manchester
United), Rafa (Braga), Varela (FC Porto), Vieirinha (Wolfsburg).
THE KEY 3
Obviously, Cristiano Ronaldo is Portugals great hope. They go as far as he takes them. Pepe has to anchor a backline that has been lax
in concentration at times, while the long standing question of will Portugal ever produce a worthwhile forward remains. Can Postiga
score?
PLUS: How brittle is that midfield outside of Moutinho, and is Nani washed up?
THE BOSS
PAULO BENTO - Shortly removed from a successful playing career as a scrappy defensive midfielder, Bento made his name at Sporting
Lisbon, bringing the capital club to Portugals elite. Known for the kind of defensive, tough tactics that would befit a defensive midfielder,
Bento has gotten the job done with Portugal, if not always easily
EXPECTATIONS
Semifinal - Portugal know that they dont have a great team. But they have Ronaldo, and a recent history of stepping up when it matters.
GROUP G
USA
"The Yanks"
PREVIEW
When the World Cup draw came down, so did the USA. They came crashing down to Earth, bruised and dazed after a historically good
2013 that saw Jurgen Klinsmanns team sweep into the World Cup with guns blazing.
The draw hurt. Ghana, the arch-nemesis that knocked the US out of the last two World Cups, Portugal, Cristiano Ronaldos side, and
Germany, a powerhouse, and Klinsmanns former team. Struggles in 2014 have sapped confidence too.
But soon after that draw, the resolve set in, as did that uniquely American belief that anything is possible. The US dont have an
impossible task in Brazil. They have a damn hard one. But a guileful team full of solid players who work well together and on their day
can beat anyone, they think theyll get through it.
Its a testing point for the US. Never have expectations been higher, and never has there been more eyeballs on the national team. Its
time to shine.
SQUAD
Goalkeepers:Brad Guzan (Aston Villa), Tim Howard (Everton), Nick Rimando (Real Salt Lake).
Defenders:DaMarcus Beasley (Puebla), Matt Besler (Sporting Kansas City), John Brooks (Hertha Berlin), Geoff Cameron (Stoke City),
Timmy Chandler (Nuremberg), Omar Gonzalez (LA Galaxy), Fabian Johnson (Hoffenheim), DeAndre Yedlin (Seattle Sounders).
Midfielders:Kyle Beckerman (Real Salt Lake), Alejandro Bedoya (Nantes), Michael Bradley (Toronto FC), Brad Davis (Houston
Dynamo), Mix Diskerud (Rosenborg), Julian Green (Bayern Munich), Jermaine Jones (Besiktas), Graham Zusi (Sporting Kansas City).
Forwards:Jozy Altidore (Sunderland), Clint Dempsey (Seattle Sounders), Aron Johannsson (AZ Alkmaar), Chris Wondolowski (San Jose
Earthquakes).
THE KEY 3
The young Besler must anchor an inexperienced US defense that will face monster attacks, Dempsey must step up and provide the Yanks
with goals in the absence of Landon Donovan, and Bradley, the heart and sole of the team, must control the midfield.
PLUS: How is morale in this team? Altidore, who has struggled since moving to England, has to score: He didnt in South Africa. Howard
is terrific, but how will the Americans fragile defense hold up?
THE BOSS
JURGEN KLINSMANN - It took a little while to get going, but Klinsmanns USA evolution has taken off. While it has become evolution
rather than revolution, the Americans had their best ever overall year in 2013 and the German legends SoCal cool demeanor and
infectious personality have made him a hit. He certainly has flaws, but with his World Cup nous and unending charisma, the US believes
in this man.
EXPECTATIONS
Out of the Group - For the Americans, the expectation is always the same: Get out of the group. But if the US can reach the knockout
stages this time, the achievement will be more meaningful and magnified than ever before.
GROUP H
ALGERIA BELGIUM RUSSIA SOUTH KOREA
FIXTURES
Belgium ___v___ Algeria
6/17 12ET ESPN
Russia ___v___ South Korea
6/17 6ET ESPN
Belgium ___v___ Russia
6/22 12ET ABC
South Korea ___v___ Algeria

Algeria ___v___ Russia
6/22 3ET ABC

6/26 4ET ESPN2
South Korea ___v___ Belgium
6/26 4ET ESPN
GROUP BESTS
Player Hazard BEL / Goalscorer Lukaku BEL / Manager Capello RUS
Supporters KOR / Defense BEL / Attack BEL / Depth BEL / Teamwork - RUS
Most Likely To See Red Bougherra ALG / Passer Dembele BEL / Leader Kompany BEL
BIGGEST MATCHES
MOST IMPORTANT GAME -- Russia v. South Korea - Russia shouldnt have too many
problems with finishing second in this group, but if there will be a challenger, it could be
the Koreans.
BEST GAME -- Belgium v. Russia - Clearly the two best teams in this group, both teams
are young and can score bags of goals. If Belgium are a serious challenger for the
trophy, they get a statement win here.
GROUP A
H
ALGERIA
BELGIUMCROATIA
RUSSIA SOUTH
KOREA
BRAZIL MEXICO
CAMEROON
ALGERIA
BRAZIL
"SELACAO"
"The Desert Foxes"
PREVIEW
After a couple of decades in the international wilderness, Algeria returned to the World Cup with a petulant whimper in 2010. Their most
important contribution to the South African World Cup was being the team that Landon Donovan scored against to send the United
States through on the stroke of midnight, but that doesnt quite some up how bad Algeria were.
They scored no goals, made a few howling errors, and played some ugly soccer. Theyre back in 2010, wily as ever, after barely ousting
upstart Burkina Faso in an African playoff.
Much of the contingent that represented Algeria in 2010 has retired, leaving a younger generation to carry the mantle in Brazil.
Probably the least talented African team though they wouldnt tell you that the tournament will be a success if the Desert Foxes can
notch a win. A plus youre likely to see a red card in at least one of their matches.
SQUAD
Goalkeepers:Rais Mbolhi (CSKA Sofia), Cedric Si Mohamed (CS Constantine), Mohamed Lamine Zemmamouche (USM Alger).
Defenders:Essaid Belkalem (Watford, on loan from Granada), Madjid Bougherra (Lekhwya Club), Liassine Cadamuro (Mallorca),
Faouzi Ghoualm (Napoli), Rafik Halliche (Academica Coimbra), Aissa Mandi (Stade Reims), Carl Medjani (Valenciennes), Djamel
Mesbah (Livorno), Mehdi Mostefa (AC Ajaccio).
Midfielders:Nabil Bentaleb (Tottenham), Yasine Brahimi (Granada), Medhi Lacen (Getafe), Saphir Taider (Inter Milan), Hassan Yebda
(Udinese)
.
Forwards:Abdelmoumene Djabou (Club Africain), Sofiane Feghouli (Valencia), Nabil Ghilas (Porto), Riyad Mahrez (Leicester City),
Islam Slimani (Sporting Lisbon, Portugal), Hilal Soudani (Dinamo Zagreb).
THE KEY 3
Algeria dont need any telling how important goalkeeping is after the 2010 fiasco. Mbolhi will be big, as will the tempremental captain
Bougherra, who anchors his backline. Slimani is a young up and comer with Sporting Lisbon, and Algeria often struggle for goals.
PLUS: Central midfield is a concern. Will this team have any possession?
THE BOSS
VAHID HALILHODZIC - Unlike the other African countries, Algerias coach is riddled with football management experience from three
decades. Halilhodzic, a native of Bosnia, was set to guide Ivory Coast to the 2010 World Cup until he was fired four months before the
tournament. The wily former PSG boss has guided Algeria back to the promise land, and the Desert Foxes should be much stronger in
the dugout than they were in 2010.
EXPECTATIONS
Anything Is Gravy - Algeria tend to think theyre quite a bit better than they really are. They have some history, dating back to the 60s
and 70s, but in reality, anything better than the 2010 debacle will be just fine.
GROUP A
H
ALGERIA
BELGIUMCROATIA
RUSSIA SOUTH
KOREA
BRAZIL MEXICO
CAMEROON
BELGIUM
BRAZIL
"SELACAO"
"The Red Devils"
PREVIEW
After a 20-year run of making each World Cup from 1982 to 2002, Belgium fell off the world football map for a decade. Until this year,
itd been 12 years since the Red Devils had made a major tournament.
But, my, are they back with a bang. You hear of golden generations often in international football, but what Belgium has now defines
the term. An entire team of brilliant young players who are playing in every position for the biggest clubs in Europe have exploded onto
the national team, giving coach Marc Wilmots one of the most talented sides in the tournament.
But the last time Belgium played at a World Cup, Wilmots was on the team. None of Belgiums 23 have World Cup experience, and
theyve only been together for a few short years.
Will that lack of international knowledge come back to sting Belgium, or, with the aid of a soft group, will they soar to their best World
Cup performance ever setting up a decade of dominance?
SQUAD
Goalkeepers:Thibaut Courtois (Atletico Madrid, on loan from Chelsea), Simon Mignolet (Liverpool), Sammy Bossut (Zulte Waregem).
Defenders:Toby Alderweireld (Atletico Madrid), Laurent Ciman (Standard Liege), Nicolas Lombaerts (Zenit St Petersburg), Vincent
Kompany (Manchester City), Daniel Van Buyten (Bayern Munich), Anthony Vanden Borre (Anderlecht), Thomas Vermaelen (Arsenal),
Jan Vertonghen (Tottenham).
Midfielders:Nacer Chadli, Mousa Dembele (both Tottenham), Steven Defour (Porto), Kevin De Bruyne (Wolfsburg), Marouane Fellaini,
Adnan Januzaj (both Manchester United), Eden Hazard (Chelsea), Kevin Mirallas (Everton), Divock Origi (Lille), Axel Witsel (Zenit St
Petersburg).
Forwards:Romelu Lukaku (Everton, on loan from Chelsea), Dries Mertens (Napoli).
THE KEY 3
Kompany is this teams unquestioned leader and one of the best captains in football. Fullback is Belgiums biggest weakness,
Vertonghens play as a makeshift right-back is huge. Hazard is enjoying a career year, hes Belgiums brightest star.
PLUS: Is this team just a little overrated? Theyre novel and young, but at their best they have quarterfinal talent.
THE BOSS
MARC WILMOTS - One of Belgiums best ever players, Wilmots was at one point a member of the Belgian senate before becoming
disillusioned resigning his position. One of the younger coaches in the tournament, the relatable Wilmots has formed the nucleus of a
formidable and exciting team after being promoted from an assistant position in 2012. But Wilmots is not universally popular, and
questions remain about his inexperience and tactical nous.
EXPECTATIONS
Semifinal - Belgium have been so heavily tipped for so long to make a deep run at this World Cup, any idea of being outsiders is gone.
This team has too much talent not to threaten in Brazil, and Belgium has been starved for real success for so long, only a semifinal run
will suffice.
GROUP A
H
ALGERIA
BELGIUMCROATIA
RUSSIA SOUTH
KOREA
BRAZIL MEXICO
CAMEROON
RUSSIA
BRAZIL
"SELACAO"
"Sbornaya"
PREVIEW
Despite the measly World Cup record, Russian football is improving rapidly. The national team has done most of their damage in the
European Championships, but an entirely domestic-based 23 man squad and Fabio Capello to head it says that this country could be a
force by the time their turn in the sun comes in 2018 when they host the World Cup.
Still, there are typical Russian problems. While Capello has crafted a workmanlike squad and gotten rid of much not all of the
mercurial temperament that plagued the inconsistent team under previous regimes, there isnt as much flair or ability in this Russian outfit
than the sides that took the field at Euro 2008 and 2012.
Of course, its not really 2014 that matters for Russia in 2014, its 2018 that matters, even right now. Russia arent exactly eager to
disappoint on home soil. Thats why Capello has been signed to a contract extension before a ball has been kicked a clear sign that
Russias performance this summer doesnt matter very much in the grand scheme of things.
Russia have a very capable team that should easily advance into the teeth of whoever can scratch their way through Group G for the
Round of 16. Then its onwards and upwards to 2018.
SQUAD
Goalkeepers:Igor Akinfeev (CSKA Moscow), Yury Lodygin (Zenit St Petersburg), Sergey Ryzhikov (Rubin Kazan).
Defenders:Vasili Berezutskiy (CSKA Moscow), Vladimir Granat (Dynamo Moscow), Andrey Eshchenko (Anzhi Makhachkala), Sergey
Ignashevich (CSKA Moscow), Alexey Kozlov (Dynamo Moscow), Dmitry Kombarov (Spartak Moscow), Andrey Semenov (Terek
Grozny), Georgi Schennikov (CSKA Moscow).
Midfielders:Denis Glushakov (Spartak Moscow), Igor Denisov (Dynamo Moscow), Alan Dzagoev (CSKA Moscow), Yury Zhirkov
(Dynamo Moscow), Alexey Ionov (Dynamo Moscow), Alexander Samedov (Lokomotiv Moscow), Victor Faizulin (Zenit St Petersburg),
Oleg Shatov (Zenit St Petersburg), Roman Shirokov (Krasnodar).
Forwards:Maxim Kanunnikov (Amkar Perm), Alexander Kerzhakov (Zenit St Petersburg), Alexander Kokorin (Dynamo Moscow).
THE KEY 3
Dzagoev burst onto the scene at Euro 2012 and has taken the mantle from axed former captain Andrei Arshavin as Russias inspiration.
Kerzakhov may resemble the stereotype of a guy who sits on his couch drinking beer and eating Cheetos, but he can score. Akinfeev is a
long servant of the national team already at age 27, and his play could be key.
THE BOSS
FABIO CAPELLO - Ah, Don Fabio. This steely, iron-willed Italian disciplinarian this hard-liner who has conquered Europe time and again
with the biggest clubs only has one dent in his resume, and its World Cup failure in 2010 with England. Perhaps that, and a very large
paycheck, drove Capello to accept the Russia job in 2012. He now has a chance to erase his demons in another crack at the worlds
greatest competition.
EXPECTATIONS
Out of the Group - Historically, Russia have done better in the European Championships that the World Cup. But a manageable group,
and the feeling that we havent ever seen Russia play up to their full potential means that Capello is expected to deliver in Brazil.
GROUP A
H
ALGERIA
BELGIUMCROATIA
RUSSIA SOUTH
KOREA
BRAZIL MEXICO
CAMEROON
SOUTH
BRAZIL KOREA
"SELACAO"
"Taegeuk Warriors"
PREVIEW
Along with the USA and Mexico, they are the worlds automatic qualifier from outside the power continents where World Cup winners
come from South America and Europe. You can expect to see South Korea pop up every four years.
This time around, the Koreans' passage was treacherous luckily secured on the last day of qualification in Asia, a region this team used
to dominate. But Korea Republic have fallen on hard times, with a general lack of ability and poor management harming a team that still
looking back on the fading memories of its home World Cup in 2002.
In those days, Guus Hiddink coached the team. South Korea would kill for a man like Guus now, while inexperienced Hong Myung-Bo
gets a shot at the helm of the team. South Korea pride themselves on cohesiveness and industry, but there has to be some backbone to
that hard work that the Koreans seem to be missing going into the tournament.
It would be unwise to rule South Korea out they have a decent group. But its fair to say that not many are expecting South Korea to
advance. The teams recent trend of getting out of the group stage in one tournament and failing to do the same the next appears to be
safe.
SQUAD
Goalkeepers:Jung Sung-ryeong (Suwon Bluewings), Kim Seung-gyu (Ulsan Horang-i), Lee Bum-young (Busan I'Park)
Defenders:Yun Suk-young (QPR), Kim Young-kwon (Guangzhou Evergrande), Hwang Seok-ho (Sanfrecce Hiroshima), Hong Jeong-ho
(Augsburg), Kwak Tae-hwi (Al Hilal), Lee Yong (Ulsan Horang-i), Kim Chang-soo (Kashiwa Reysol), Park Joo-ho (Mainz)
Midfielders:Ki Seung-yueng (Sunderland, on loan from Swansea), Ha Dae-sung (Beijing Guoan), Han Kook-young (Kashiwa Reysol),
Park Jung-woo (Guangzhou R&F), Son Heung-min (Bayer Leverkusen), Kim Bo-kyung (Cardiff City), Lee Chung-yong (Bolton Wanderers),
Ji Dong-won (Augsburg).
Forwards:Koo Ja-cheol (Mainz), Lee Keun-ho (Sangju Sangmu), Park Chu-young (Arsenal), Kim Shin-wook (Ulsan Horang-i).
THE KEY 3
South Korea may struggle for goals, so its vital that KS Wook take his chances. SH Min of Bayer Leverkusen is the star, while wily
veteran captain LC Yong must be solid at the back.
PLUS: Overall talent is way down for this team.
THE BOSS
HONG MYUNG-BO - When Choi Kang-Hee resigned after completing his stated mission of qualifying South Korea for their eighth
straight World Cup, he wanted a foreign coach to replace him for the Finals. Instead, Korea Republic have another native, the
charismatic Hong, a South Korean who represented the country in four of those eight World Cup. Working his way up through the South
Korean system, this is Hongs first top job.
EXPECTATIONS
Out of the Group - South Korea have never been able to replicate the magic from 2002, but theyve been able to establish themselves
as a respectable team. Advancement from the group stage is the baseline upon which each World Cup is judged.
Rou nd of 16
Round of 16
Group A Winner
Group B Winner
Group B Runner-Up
6/28 12 ET
Belo Horizonte
Rou nd of 16
Group A Runner-Up
Qua rter nal
Quarternal
Campeao do
Mundo
7/4 4 ET
Fortaleza
7/5 4 ET
Salvador
Group D Runner-Up
6/28 4 ET
Rio
Rou nd of 16
Sem i nal
Final
Semi nal
7/8 4 ET
Belo Horizonte
7/13 3 ET
Rio
7/9 4 ET
Sao Paulo
Group C Runner-Up
6/29 4 ET
Recife
Round of 16
Group E Winner
Group F Winner
Qua rter nal
6/30 12 ET
Brasilia
Rou nd of 16
Group G Winner
Group H Runner-Up
6/30 4 ET
Porto Alegre
Round of 16
Group D Winner
Group C Winner
Group F Runner-Up
6/29 12 ET
Fortaleza
Quarternal
7/1 12 ET
Sao Paulo
3rd Place
Winner
7/4 12 ET
Rio
7/12 4 ET
Brasilia
World Cup 2014

K n o c ko ut b rac k et
Visit www.worldsoccertalk.com - Bracket Design by @aghease
Group E Runner-Up
7/5 12 ET
Brasilia
Round of 16
Group H Winner
Group G Runner-Up
7/1 4 ET
Salvador
GROUP A
GROUP E
Brazil ___v___ Croatia 6/12 4ET ESPN
Switzerland ___v___ Ecuador 6/15 12ET ABC
W O R L D C U P 2 0 14
Mexico ___v___ Cameroon 6/13 12ET ESPN2

Brazil ___v___ Mexico 6/17 3ET ESPN
Cameroon ___v___ Croatia 6/18 6ET ESPN
A1
France ___v___ Honduras 6/15 3ET ABC

Switzerland ___v___ France 6/20 3ET ESPN
B1
Cameroon ___v___ Brazil 6/23 4ET ESPN2

Croatia ___v___ Mexico 6/23 4ET ESPN
GROUP B
Ecuador ___v___ France 6/25 4ET ESPN

Round of 16
ABC
6/28 12ET
Belo Horizonte
Round of 16
ESPN
6/29 12ET
Fortaleza
B2
A2
WORLD CUP CHAMPION

Quarterfinal
ESPN
7/4 4ET
Fortaleza
Spain ___v___ Netherlands 6/13 3ET ESPN

Chile ___v___ Australia 6/13 6ET ESPN2
Australia ___v___ Netherlands 6/18 12ET ESPN
C1
Spain ___v___ Chile 6/18 3ET ESPN
Quarterfinal
ESPN
7/5 4ET
Salvador
Round of 16
ABC
6/28 4ET
Rio
Australia ___v___ Spain 6/23 12ET ESPN2

Netherlands ___v___ Chile 6/23 12ET ESPN
Iran ___v___ Nigeria 6/16 3ET ESPN

D1
Final
ABC
7/13 3ET
Rio
Semifinal
ESPN
7/9 4ET
Sao Paulo
E1
F1
Round of 16
ESPN
6/30 12ET
Brasilia
Japan ___v___ Greece 6/19 6ET ESPN

Greece ___v___ Ivory Coast 6/24 4ET ESPN2
Italy ___v___ Costa Rica 6/20 12ET ESPN
Round of 16
ESPN
7/1 12ET
Sao Paulo
F2
E2
G1
Uruguay ___v___ Costa Rica 6/14 3ET ABC
Uruguay ___v___ England 6/19 3ET ESPN
Nigeria ___v___ Bosnia 6/21 6ET ESPN

Bosnia ___v___ Iran 6/25 12ET ESPN2
Nigeria ___v___ Argentina 6/25 12ET ESPN
Germany ___v___ Portugal 6/16 12ET ESPN

Ghana ___v___ USA 6/16 6ET ESPN
Colombia ___v___ Ivory Coast 6/19 12ET ESPN
England ___v___ Italy 6/14 6ET ESPN
Argentina ___v___ Iran 6/21 12ET ESPN
GROUP G
Ivory Coast ___v___ Japan 6/15 9ET ESPN
GROUP D
GROUP f
C2
Semifinal
ESPN
7/8 4ET
Belo Horizonte
GROUP c
Japan ___v___ Colombia 6/24 4ET ESPN
Honduras ___v___ Switzerland 6/25 4ET ESPN2
Argentina ___v___ Bosnia 6/15 6ET ESPN
Round of 16
ESPN
6/29 4ET
Recife
D2
Colombia ___v___ Greece 6/14 12ET ABC
Honduras ___v___ Ecuador 6/20 6ET ESPN
Round of 16
ESPN
6/30 4ET
Porto Alegre
Quarterfinal
ESPN2
7/4 12ET
Rio
Quarterfinal
ABC
7/5 12ET
Brasilia
3rd Place Winner
ESPN
7/12 4ET
Brasilia
H2
H1
Germany ___v___ Ghana 6/21 3ET ESPN

USA ___v___ Portugal 6/22 6ET ESPN
Portugal ___v___ Ghana 6/26 12ET ESPN2
USA ___v___ Germany 6/26 12ET ESPN
GROUP H
Belgium ___v___ Algeria 6/17 12ET ESPN
Round of 16
ESPN
7/1 4ET
Salvador
G2
Russia ___v___ South Korea 6/17 6ET ESPN

Belgium ___v___ Russia 6/22 12ET ABC
South Korea ___v___ Algeria 6/22 3ET ABC
Algeria ___v___ Russia 6/26 4ET ESPN2
Costa Rica ___v___ England 6/24 12ET ESPN2

Italy ___v___ Uruguay 6/24 12ET ESPN
South Korea ___v___ Belgium 6/26 4ET ESPN
Visit www.worldsoccertalk.com
Bracket Design by @aghease

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2014 WORLD CUP

2014 WORLD CUP

Full Bracket and TV Schedule

6/12 4ET ESPN

Brazil ___v___ Mexico

6/17 3ET ESPN

Cameroon ___v___ Croatia

6/18 6ET ESPN

Cameroon ___v___ Brazil

6/23 4ET ESPN2

6/13 3ET ESPN

Australia ___v___ Netherlands 6/18 12ET ESPN

6/18 3ET ESPN

6/14 12ET ABC

Ivor y Coast ___v___ Japan

6/15 9ET ESPN

Colombia ___v___ Ivor y Coast

6/19 6ET ESPN

Greece ___v___ Ivor y Coast

6/19 12ET ESPN

6/14 3ET ABC

England ___v___ Italy

6/14 6ET ESPN

Uruguay ___v___ England

6/19 3ET ESPN

Italy ___v___ Costa Rica

6/20 12ET ESPN

Costa Rica ___v___ England

6/24 12ET ESPN2

COSTA RICA ENGLAND ITALY URUGUAY

COSTA RICA ENGLAND ITALY URUGUAY

COSTA RICA ENGLAND ITALY URUGUAY

COSTA RICA ENGLAND ITALY URUGUAY

6/15 12ET ABC

Switzerland ___v___ France

6/20 3ET ESPN

Honduras ___v___ Ecuador

6/20 6ET ESPN

Ecuador ___v___ France

6/25 4ET ESPN

Honduras ___v___ Switzerland 6/25 4ET ESPN2

ECUADOR FRANCE HONDURAS SWITZERLAND

ECUADOR FRANCE HONDURAS SWITZERLAND

ECUADOR FRANCE HONDURAS SWITZERLAND

6/15 6ET ESPN

Iran ___v___ Nigeria

6/16 3ET ESPN

Argentina ___v___ Iran

6/21 12ET ESPN

Nigeria ___v___ Bosnia

6/21 6ET ESPN

Bosnia ___v___ Iran

6/25 12ET ESPN2

ARGENTINA BOSNIA IRAN NIGERIA

ARGENTINA BOSNIA IRAN NIGERIA

ARGENTINA BOSNIA IRAN NIGERIA

6/16 12ET ESPN

Ghana ___v___ USA

6/16 6ET ESPN

Germany ___v___ Ghana

6/21 3ET ESPN

USA ___v___ Por tugal

6/22 6ET ESPN

Por tugal ___v___ Ghana

Brazil _v_ Mexico

Cameroon _v_ Croatia

Cameroon _v_ Brazil

Australia _v_ Netherlands 6/18 12ET ESPN

Ivor y Coast _v_ Japan

Colombia _v_ Ivor y Coast

Greece _v_ Ivor y Coast

England _v_ Italy

Uruguay _v_ England

Italy _v_ Costa Rica

Costa Rica _v_ England

Switzerland _v_ France

Honduras _v_ Ecuador

Ecuador _v_ France

Honduras _v_ Switzerland 6/25 4ET ESPN2

Iran _v_ Nigeria

Argentina _v_ Iran

Nigeria _v_ Bosnia

Bosnia _v_ Iran

Ghana _v_ USA

Germany _v_ Ghana

USA _v_ Por tugal

Por tugal _v_ Ghana

Russia _v_ South Korea

Belgium _v_ Russia

South Korea _v_ Algeria

South Korea _v_ Belgium

Brazil _v_ Croatia 6/12 4ET ESPN

Switzerland _v_ Ecuador 6/15 12ET ABC

Mexico _v_ Cameroon 6/13 12ET ESPN2

France _v_ Honduras 6/15 3ET ABC

Cameroon _v_ Brazil 6/23 4ET ESPN2

Ecuador _v_ France 6/25 4ET ESPN

Spain _v_ Netherlands 6/13 3ET ESPN

Spain _v_ Chile 6/18 3ET ESPN

Australia _v_ Spain 6/23 12ET ESPN2

Iran _v_ Nigeria 6/16 3ET ESPN

Japan _v_ Greece 6/19 6ET ESPN

Italy _v_ Costa Rica 6/20 12ET ESPN

Uruguay _v_ Costa Rica 6/14 3ET ABC

Uruguay _v_ England 6/19 3ET ESPN

Nigeria _v_ Bosnia 6/21 6ET ESPN

Germany _v_ Portugal 6/16 12ET ESPN

Colombia _v_ Ivory Coast 6/19 12ET ESPN

England _v_ Italy 6/14 6ET ESPN

Argentina _v_ Iran 6/21 12ET ESPN

Ivory Coast _v_ Japan 6/15 9ET ESPN

Japan _v_ Colombia 6/24 4ET ESPN

Honduras _v_ Switzerland 6/25 4ET ESPN2

Argentina _v_ Bosnia 6/15 6ET ESPN

Colombia _v_ Greece 6/14 12ET ABC

Honduras _v_ Ecuador 6/20 6ET ESPN

Germany _v_ Ghana 6/21 3ET ESPN

Russia _v_ South Korea 6/17 6ET ESPN

Costa Rica _v_ England 6/24 12ET ESPN2

South Korea _v_ Belgium 6/26 4ET ESPN