2014 WORLD CUP GUIDEBOOK - World Soccer Talkworldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/world-cup...WORLD SOCCER TALK / WORLD CUP 2014 Estadio do Maracanã – Rio de Janiero –

by Abe Asher

2014 WORLD CUP GUIDEBOOK

Presented by

W O R L D S O C C E R T A L K / W O R L D C U P 2 0 1 4

CREDITST H E S I T E

Since 2005, World Soccer Talk has been the independent voice for soccer fans - featuring daily news and analysis on all of the top soccer leagues and competitions around the world. More than 668,000 unique visitors a month trust World Soccer Talk for their daily fix of soccer news, analysis, video features and interviews as well as exclusive stories found only on WorldSoccerTalk.com. Plus, the site features the World Soccer Talk Podcast, the longest running soccer show in the world (launched in 2006) as well as original video shows including This Week In Soccer and Voices Of Soccer. World Soccer Talk writers and analysts have appeared on talkSPORT, BBC Radio Five, NPR, BBC World, ESPN Radio, beIN SPORT, CBC and BBC World Service, as well as in print and online in The New York Times, The Guardian, BBC News, International Herald Tribune and CNN. In 2011, the site was named one of the top 100 soccer blogs to follow by The Guardian newspaper.

T H E F O U N D E RChristopher Harris, Founder, Editor and Publisher of World Soccer Talk, has been following football/soccer for more than 30 years. Born in Wales, he is a former journalist who now lives in Florida and spends his time analyzing the influence of world soccer worldwide. His writing credentials include The Palm Beach Post, Palm Beach Illustrated, South Florida Sun-Sentinel and the now defunct Matchday Magazine. In addition to the Premier League, Harris is an expert on the soccer TV industry and has written extensively about the growth of soccer coverage on television and the Internet in the past decade. Since launching EPL Talk in 2005, Harris has broken several major soccer stories that were later picked up by mainstream media such as the Associated Press, talkSPORT, The Guardian and The Telegraph. His Twitter handle is @worldsoccertalk

G U I D E B O O K A U T H O RAbe 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

G U I D E B O O K D E S I G N E RA.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


2014 WORLD CUP GUIDEBOOK

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. It’s an unparalleled blend of pageantry, pride, drama, intensity and intrigue. It’s the world’s 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 nation’s carnival atmosphere already established, it’s possibly the premier World Cup host. Of course, it hasn’t 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 don’t 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, it’s onto Russia and Qatar – that is, if those two countries don’t 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.

I N T R O D U C T I O N

Stadiums

Group A

Group B

Group C

Group D

Group E

Group F

Group G

Group H

Knockout Bracket

Full Bracket and TV Schedule

T A B L E O F C O N T E N T Spage 4

pages 5-9

pages 10-14

pages 15-19

pages 20-24

pages 25-29

pages 30-34

pages 35-39

pages 40-44

page 45

page 46

W O R L D S O C C E R T A L K / W O R L D C U P 2 0 1 4 W O R L D S O C C E R T A L K / W O R L D C U P 2 0 1 4

Estadio do Maracanã – 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. Estádio Nacional Mané 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 Brazil’s 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 Brazil’s 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 it’s possibly Brazil’s finest effort. Arena Pantanal – Cuiaba – Resembling Tottenham’s 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 it’s crawlingly slow pace of renovation, and it’s still only 85% complete. It’s one of the many black eyes from the process of hosting the tournament for Brazil.

THE STADIUMS

Porto Alegre

Curtiba

Sao Paulo Rio de Janeiro

Belo Horizonte

BrasiliaCuiaba

Salvador

Recife

Natal

FortalezaManaus

GROUP ABRAZIL CAMEROON CROATIA MEXICO

Brazil ___v___ Croatia

Mexico ___v___ Cameroon

Brazil ___v___ Mexico

Cameroon ___v___ Croatia

Cameroon ___v___ Brazil

Croatia ___v___ Mexico

F I X T U R E S 6/12 4ET ESPN

6/13 12ET ESPN2

6/17 3ET ESPN

6/18 6ET ESPN

6/23 4ET ESPN2

6/23 4ET ESPN

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

G R O U P B E S T S

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.

!

B I G G E S T M A T C H E S


GROUP ABRAZIL MEXICO CROATIA CAMEROON

BRAZIL"SELACAO"GROUP A

BRAZIL CAMEROON CROATIA MEXICO

BRAZIL"Selecao"


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 Maracanã 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, it’s football, and Brazil wants to win. The bond between the Selação 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.!

P R E V I E W

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)

S Q U A D

Brazil won the Confederations Cup in 2013 because Neymar was awesome. He’ll 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 didn’t light up the Premier League last year, his creativity will be key, and journeyman Fred isn’t a household name, but he might be when it’s all said and done. Brazil’s defense is strong.

T H E K E Y 3

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. He’s 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.

T H E B O S S

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 Maracanã

E X P E C T A T I O N S




CAMEROON"The Indomitable Lions"


Cameroon are regulars on the world stage who haven’t taken the next step since Roger Mila inspired them to a quarterfinal run in Italy ’90. Since then, they’ve only missed one World Cup, but they’ve never made it past the group stage. The Lions are back after a professionally taken care of qualification campaign, but they aren’t boasting their best team. In fact, Cameroon didn’t 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 won’t be lacking for physical strength. They have a big, tough spine, and as indomitable as their nickname suggests. It’s mental strength that could be lacking in the Brazilian heat. Leader and top player Samuel Eto’o has quit the team multiple times after rows with management, but he’s back now, and will have to score for his team to surprise in Brazil.

P R E V I E W

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).

S Q U A D

Mbia often plays in the midfield, but he’ll be asked to slide into central defense for Cameroon. Jean Makoun has long underachieved throughout his career, could this tournament be a revival? It’s Eto’o’s last bow on the world stage, what impression will he leave us with?

T H E K E Y 3

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, he’ll be stepping onto the biggest stage of his career.

T H E B O S S

Out of the Group - In Group A, everyone thinks they can finish behind Brazil. It’s 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.





CROATIA"Vatreni"


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, it’s fair to say that Croatia’s 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 they’ve 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. !

P R E V I E W

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).

S Q U A D

Mario Mandzukic was sent off in the final qualifier against Iceland, so he’ll miss the opener against Brazil. When he gets back, he must score. Modric is his team’s 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.

T H E K E Y 3

NIKO KOVAC - The 42 year old is only six years removed from captaining Croatia; now he’s 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.

T H E B O S S

Out of the Group - No doubt, Croatia is bruised and battered. But they’ll 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.





MEXICO"El Tri"


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 haven’t 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 camel’s back, Mexico riffled through three coaches in four games and only made it to Brazil with two goals from the USA’s B-team against Panama in stoppage time of their match while Mexico was going out in the rain in Costa Rica. They’re 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.

P R E V I E W

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).

S Q U A D

Much of the Mexican revival is based around Marquez, the grouchy old man at the heart of the national team. He’s a leader, but he’s 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.

T H E K E Y 3

MIGUEL HERRERA - Hired as Mexico’s 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?

T H E B O S S

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 BAUSTRALIA CHILE SPAIN NETHERLANDS

Spain ___v___ Netherlands

Chile ___v___ Australia

Australia ___v___ Netherlands

Spain ___v___ Chile

Australia ___v___ Spain

Netherlands ___v___ Chile


6/13 6ET ESPN2

6/18 12ET ESPN

6/18 3ET ESPN

6/23 12ET ESPN2

6/23 12ET ESPN

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

G R O U P B E S T S

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 year’s 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.

!




BRAZIL"SELACAO"GROUP B

AUSTRALIA CHILE SPAIN NETHERLANDS

AUSTRALIA"Socceroos"


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. There’s 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.

P R E V I E W

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).

S Q U A D

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 doesn’t have a club at the moment.

T H E K E Y 3

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. Osieck’s replacement was Postecoglou, Australia’s most successful domestic manager. Postecoglou takes over the side with just a few games to play before Australia’s daunting World Cup task begins.

T H E B O S S

Anything Is Gravy - The draw was a death knell for the poor Aussies, who weren’t feeling so good about themselves heading into the tournament anyway. As long as they’re not completely embarrassed and walk away with no points, Australia will move on intact.





CHILE"La Roja"


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 Bielsa’s 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. It’s a tall order, but for the first time in over 50 years, Chile is equipped to meet it.

P R E V I E W

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)

S Q U A D

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 Barcelona’s 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

T H E K E Y 3

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.

T H E B O S S

Semifinal - There is real belief that this is Chile’s time. Confidence has never been higher. On South American soil, and despite a killer draw, La Roja can deliver their best ever tournament.





SPAIN"La Furia Roja"


Spain’s 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. They’re the defending World Cup winners, and they have nothing left to prove. If they won’t be looked back on as the greatest international side ever, it won’t be because they didn’t 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 it’s 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.

P R E V I E W

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).

S Q U A D

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 Xavi’s 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 – striker’s 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?

T H E K E Y 3

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.

T H E B O S S

Champions - They’ve 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.





NETHERLANDS"Oranje"


It’s 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?

P R E V I E W

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)

S Q U A D

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 they’re 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?

T H E K E Y 3

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 he’s 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.

T H E B O S S

Semifinal - Holland’s 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 CCOLOMBIA GREECE IVORY COAST JAPAN

Colombia ___v___ Greece

Ivory Coast ___v___ Japan

Colombia ___v___ Ivory Coast

Japan ___v___ Greece

Greece ___v___ Ivory Coast

Japan ___v___ Colombia

F I X T U R E S 6/14 12ET ABC

6/15 9ET ESPN

6/19 12ET ESPN

6/19 6ET ESPN

6/24 4ET ESPN2

6/24 4ET ESPN

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

G R O U P B E S T S

MOST IMPORTANT GAME -- Ivory Coast v. Japan - They’re 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, it’s a chance to see two great strikers in Falcao (it he’s fit) and Drogba, along with two dynamo midfields collide. The winner should take the group.

!




BRAZIL"SELACAO"GROUP C

COLOMBIA GREECE IVORY COAST JAPAN

COLOMBIA"Los Cafeteros"


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, it’s looking like he’ll be able to recover in time to play hobbled. Falcao’s presence may be the difference between making a run at the semifinals and just getting out of the group. Columbia’s offense should be okay, it’s the defense that has people worried. Whatever happens with Falcao, Colombia is back.

P R E V I E W

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), Víctor 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).

S Q U A D

Jackson Martinez must play big without Falcao missing out. James Rodriguez is Falcao’s 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, it’s collectively where they struggle. Freddy Guarin is a player to watch in midfield.

T H E K E Y 3

JOSE PEKERMAN - One of the most respected South American coaches of his generation, Pekerman was so distraught over his native Argentina’s 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.

T H E B O S S

Semifinal - The Columbians are flying high. Full of flair and attacking impetus, ranked in the top five in the world, it doesn’t 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.





GREECE"Ethniki"


The fumes of Greece’s 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 haven’t 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.

P R E V I E W

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).

S Q U A D

The Sokratis of Borrusia Dortmund anchors a Greece defense which will be heavily relied on. Karagounis is Greece’s aging midfield maestro. He may not start, but he’ll lead. Mitroglou is Greece’s new talent up top. PLUS: The wide players can poach a goal, while the goalkeeping isn’t entirely solid.

T H E K E Y 3

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 can’t be considered an attacking juggernaut, progress is being made.

T H E B O S S

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.





IVORY COAST"The Elephants"


Cote d’Ivoire’s golden generation dawned with so much promise, captain Didier Drogba’s call for opposing sides in the country’s off-and-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 they’ve finally been handed a manageable draw. Like many African teams, this side has a fantastic attack that goes two-deep. It’s defense and goalkeeping that is the major question, and some have called into question the side’s temperament. The manager doesn’t 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.

P R E V I E W

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).

S Q U A D

He’s 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 he’s 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?

T H E K E Y 3

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. Lamouchi’s team is laden with veteran leadership, but ego and entitlement problems have cropped up.

T H E B O S S

Quarterfinal - They’ve 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.





JAPAN"Samurai Blue"


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, they’ll 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.

P R E V I E W

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).

S Q U A D

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.

T H E K E Y 3

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.

T H E B O S S

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 DCOSTA RICA ENGLAND ITALY URUGUAY

Uruguay ___v___ Costa Rica

England ___v___ Italy

Uruguay ___v___ England

Italy ___v___ Costa Rica

Costa Rica ___v___ England

Italy ___v___ Uruguay


6/14 6ET ESPN

6/19 3ET ESPN

6/20 12ET ESPN

6/24 12ET ESPN2

6/24 12ET ESPN

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

G R O U P B E S T S

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 CCOSTA RICA ENGLAND ITALY URUGUAY

COSTA RICA"Los Ticos"


Back after a one-tournament absence, Costa Rica have, in recent years, established themselves as CONCACAF’s third-wheel – always lagging behind the United States and Mexico. They qualified quite comfortably for this tournament, capitalizing on Mexico’s capitulation to become one of the very first teams to secure their Brazilian passage. Costa Rica doesn’t necessarily play the prettiest game; in fact, they’ve often employed a back-five that has shored up a once leaky defense. But they don’t 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. They’ll do well to make a fight of it.

P R E V I E W

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).

S Q U A D

"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

T H E K E Y 3

JORGE LUIS PINTO - The Columbian is in his second spell coaching Costa Rica after a long career managing in South America. At only 5’5, 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 Rica’s finest ever players, Paulo Wonchope.

T H E B O S S

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.



ENGLAND"The Three Lions"


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 don’t have world-class players anymore. They just have very good players. Their team doesn’t play particularly pretty football, and the constant drum of negativity from the tabloid press is draining. England’s 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 England’s chances, Denmark coach Martin Olsen said, “I wish them good luck. They’ll 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.

P R E V I E W

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).

S Q U A D

Rooney is England’s 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 Liverpool’s great season have?

T H E K E Y 3

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, Hodgson’s England camps have been devoid of the typical drama, but also of real belief.

T H E B O S S

Quarterfinal - England expects… Not very much this time. In fact, expectations haven’t been lower for the Three Lions in some time. Still, the 1966 mentality ensures that the country won’t 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.



ITALY"Azzurri"


You can never really know with the Italians – except it’s 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 attack-oriented side, while fazing out all but a few Lions from the team that won the 2006 World Cup in Germany. Italy’s young generation comes up in a time when Serie A is at an all-time low, and the team is almost completely domestically based. Prandelli’s 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. It’s strange to think that Italy is the second most successful national side ever, because they haven’t 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.

P R E V I E W

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).

S Q U A D

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 he’s 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?

T H E K E Y 3

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 Azzuri’s 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.

T H E B O S S

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.



URUGUAY"Los Charruas"


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 isn’t far behind. But there is a big gulf between those players and the team’s defense and midfield. Uruguay could catch fire, or they may weakly go out with a few points after the group stage, but they’ll 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 Maracaña, a loss that still haunts Uruguay’s neighbors today.

P R E V I E W

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).

S Q U A D

Suarez is Uruguay’s 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 2010’s best player Forlan recapture the magic?

T H E K E Y 3

OSCAR TABAREZ - Known as “The Teacher”, Tabarez is responsible for Uruguay’s 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.

T H E B O S S

Semifinal - Uruguay always expects great things – after all, as they’d 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 EECUADOR FRANCE HONDURAS SWITZERLAND

Switzerland ___v___ Ecuador

France ___v___ Honduras

Switzerland ___v___ France

Honduras ___v___ Ecuador

Ecuador ___v___ France

Honduras ___v___ Switzerland


6/15 3ET ABC

6/20 3ET ESPN

6/20 6ET ESPN

6/25 4ET ESPN

6/25 4ET ESPN2

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

G R O U P B E S T S

MOST IMPORTANT GAME -- France v. Honduras - France’s 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.

!




ECUADOR"La Tri"


Ecuador don’t 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 “Chucho’s” #11. Benitez played for the national team 58 times, including at the 2006 World Cup, Ecuador’s best ever performance in the competition. His memory is the driving force behind this team’s World Cup journey, and it’s 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 Benitez’s name.

P R E V I E W

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).

S Q U A D

Antonio Valencia is Ecuador’s most famous player by far, but it’s 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.

T H E K E Y 3

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. He’s 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.

T H E B O S S

Out of the Group - Ecuador certainly aren’t 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, they’ll be hoping to do the same.



BRAZIL"SELACAO"GROUP E

ECUADOR FRANCE HONDURAS SWITZERLAND

FRANCE"Les Bleus"


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 they’ll either dazzle and reach the final of the World Cup, or spectacularly get bounced from the group stage. But that’s 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 d’état in 2010, and far worse than the Zinedine Zidane inspired side that reached the 2006 final. With Ballon d’Or finalist Franck Ribery and plenty of firepower around the field, the question is which France will show up? We can guess that they won’t fall at the first hurdle, or get to the final this time, but within those parameters, it’s anyone’s guess.

P R E V I E W

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).

S Q U A D

Ribery has somewhat quietly become one of the world’s best, if his attitude is right, he’ll dominate this group. France’s 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?

T H E K E Y 3

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.

T H E B O S S

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 wouldn’t 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.



HONDURAS"Los Catrachos"


It’s 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 CONCACAF’s 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 doesn’t 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.

P R E V I E W

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).

S Q U A D

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.

T H E K E Y 3

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.

T H E B O S S

Anything Is Gravy - Honduras has never advanced from the group stage of the World Cup, and they don’t 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.



SWITZERLAND"La Nati"


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 didn’t 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 didn’t 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, it’s only Honduras and Ecuador in their way, along with France. That’s the top seed talking. In soccer, Switzerland doesn’t expect much. But in 2014, a little respect would be nice.

P R E V I E W

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).

S Q U A D

Switzerland’s strength isn’t 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?

T H E K E Y 3

OTTMAR HITZFIELD - He won everything with Borussia Dortmund and then Bayern Munich to become one of the most successful coaches in German history. Hitzfeld’s 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.

T H E B O S S

Out of the Group - The Swiss haven’t had much major tournament success recently, and as usual, they have a decent team that doesn’t menace. But it could be now or never – a great draw plus a legendary retiring coach means Switzerland has to deliver in 2014.


GROUP FARGENTINA BOSNIA IRAN NIGERIA

Argentina ___v___ Bosnia

Iran ___v___ Nigeria

Argentina ___v___ Iran

Nigeria ___v___ Bosnia

Bosnia ___v___ Iran

Nigeria ___v___ Argentina


6/16 3ET ESPN

6/21 12ET ESPN

6/21 6ET ESPN

6/25 12ET ESPN2

6/25 12ET ESPN

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

G R O U P B E S T S

MOST IMPORTANT GAME -- Bosnia & Herzegovina v. Nigeria - This is the battle for second place, and it’s 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.

!




ARGENTINA"La Albiceleste"


While you wouldn’t want to raise this question too loudly on the streets of Buenos Aires, it’s a question that comes to mind more and more: Is Argentina Brazil’s 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 world’s elite. They certainly have enough firepower to do it: Up top names like Aguero, Higuian, Lavezzi, and Messi mean that Carlos Tevez can’t 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 he’s 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.

P R E V I E W

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).

S Q U A D

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, Argentina’s wide threat. PLUS: Garay has to be big for a young Argentina backline, Man. City’s Zabaleta is that backline’s best player. His City teammate Aguero is a Golden Boot threat.

T H E K E Y 3

ALEJANDRO SABELLA - Compared to Diego Maradona, anyone would look good. But career assistant Alejandro Sabella is an interesting boss. Appointed after Argentina’s flameout at the 2011 Copa America, Sabella has gotten Argentian’s 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.

T H E B O S S

Champions - Argentina’s glory days are drifting further and further away. They haven’t gotten past the quarterfinal since 1990. But this Argentina side is so full of attacking talent and energy; it’s 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 it’s victory or bust for Argentina.



BOSNIA"Zmajevi"


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 – it’s 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.

P R E V I E W

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).

S Q U A D

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. They’re confident in Begovic in goal.

T H E K E Y 3

SAFET SUSIC - He’ll 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.

T H E B O S S

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.



IRAN"Team Melli"


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, it’s Iran who took Korea DPR’s place, and while Iran is a less extreme country politically and a much stiffer drink on the field, it’s possible that Iran – like North Korea – will be the worst team at the World Cup. In short, there just isn’t 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 – he’s brought in dual nationals, shored up the team’s 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.

P R E V I E W

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).

S Q U A D

It’s 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 it’s up to Nekounam to slow the game down in the midfield. PLUS: Where’s the match-winner on this team? Who do you hang your hat on?

T H E K E Y 3

CARLOS QUEIROZ - From Real Madrid to Iran, it’s been a long fall for Carlos Queiroz, who is still most notable for his work as Sir Alex Ferguson’s 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.

T H E B O S S

Anything Is Gravy - Not much is expected of Iran. Their talent pool is among the weakest in the tournament, and it’s very possible that they go home with no points. If Quiroez’s team can avoid that ignominy, the tournament will be a success.



NIGERIA"The Super Eagles"


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 Nigeria’s 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 wasn’t being paid. As for the team that will go to Brazil, it’s a solid, if unspectacular one. The best bet for fireworks is again off the field.

P R E V I E W

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).

S Q U A D

Enyeama is the long-serving captain, and let’s 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 Nigeria’s best bet. PLUS: The defense is the weakpoint for this team, which needs better attitudes from big players.

T H E K E Y 3

STEPHAN KESHI - Under farcical circumstances with Nigeria, Keshi is breath of fresh air. He’s 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.

T H E B O S S

Quarterfinal - Nigeria usually go into World Cups thinking well beyond their means. With all the internal turmoil, it’s 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, they’ll feel the wrath of their nation.


GROUP GGERMANY GHANA PORTUGAL USA

Germany ___v___ Portugal

Ghana ___v___ USA

Germany ___v___ Ghana

USA ___v___ Portugal

Portugal ___v___ Ghana

USA ___v___ Germany


6/16 6ET ESPN

6/21 3ET ESPN

6/22 6ET ESPN

6/26 12ET ESPN2

6/26 12ET ESPN

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

G R O U P B E S T S

MOST IMPORTANT GAME -- Ghana v. USA - It’s rare that the first group game is a true must-win for both teams playing, but that’s 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.

!




GERMANY"Die Mannschaft"


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. They’re 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 that’s all. To be sure, Low’s team is a tournament favorite heading in. They breezed through qualifying, and with Spain’s 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 it’s fitting that a little clinical, fearless cold-blooded disposition will be needed to get them over the finish line in Brazil.

P R E V I E W

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).

S Q U A D

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 Cup’s 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 isn’t rock solid either.

T H E K E Y 3

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.

T H E B O S S

Champions - They’ve come very close in recent years. Now, the young team that lit up the 2010 tournament has matured, and their time has come.



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 USA’s 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. Ghana’s defense is beyond weak, and that could be fatal in Group G. Either way, they’re sure to play more thrilling football matches in Brazil.

P R E V I E W

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).

S Q U A D

Michael Essien is the best player in Ghana’s footballing history, but he’s gotten old and isn’t 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 team’s attack is one of the best in the tournament.

T H E K E Y 3

AKWASI APPIAH - Upon being appointed Ghana manager in 2012, Appiah described himself as an “underdog” for the role. This job is Appiah’s first ever, and to say there is little confidence in him is fair – after a poor showing at the African Cup of Nations, Ghana’s FA put him through a coaching clinic, and they have even explored replacing him. It’s a big ask for Appiah to conquer the Group of Death.

T H E B O S S

Quarterfinal - Ghana appear to be Africa’s best hope to fly the flag. They were just a kick away from the semifinal in 2010, they’ve made it out of the Group Stage in their two World Cup appearances, and they feel they have their best team yet. Ghana don’t want to take a step backwards in 2014.



GHANA"Black Stars"


Portugal have only ever had two great World Cup teams. They were both semifinalists, in 1966, and 2006. It’s only recently that Portugal has been thought of as a footballing power. It’s 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, he’s gotten better and better and better. Now, he’s the best in the world, and he dragged a distractible and lackadaisical Portugal team by the chin-hair to the World Cup. Without Ronaldo, Portugal don’t 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.

P R E V I E W

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).

S Q U A D

Obviously, Cristiano Ronaldo is Portugal’s 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?

T H E K E Y 3

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 Portugal’s 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

T H E B O S S

Semifinal - Portugal know that they don’t have a great team. But they have Ronaldo, and a recent history of stepping up when it matters.



PORTUGAL"Selecao"


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 Klinsmann’s 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 Ronaldo’s side, and Germany, a powerhouse, and Klinsmann’s 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 don’t 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 they’ll get through it. It’s a testing point for the US. Never have expectations been higher, and never has there been more eyeballs on the national team. It’s time to shine.

P R E V I E W

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).

S Q U A D

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 didn’t in South Africa. Howard is terrific, but how will the American’s fragile defense hold up?

T H E K E Y 3

JURGEN KLINSMANN - It took a little while to get going, but Klinsmann’s 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 legend’s 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.

T H E B O S S

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.



USA"The Yanks"

Belgium ___v___ Algeria

Russia ___v___ South Korea

Belgium ___v___ Russia

South Korea ___v___ Algeria

Algeria ___v___ Russia

South Korea ___v___ Belgium


6/17 6ET ESPN

6/22 12ET ABC

6/22 3ET ABC

6/26 4ET ESPN2

6/26 4ET ESPN

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

G R O U P B E S T S

MOST IMPORTANT GAME -- Russia v. South Korea - Russia shouldn’t 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 HALGERIA BELGIUM RUSSIA SOUTH KOREA


BRAZIL"SELACAO"


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 doesn’t quite some up how bad Algeria were. They scored no goals, made a few howling errors, and played some ugly soccer. They’re 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 wouldn’t tell you that – the tournament will be a success if the Desert Foxes can notch a win. A plus – you’re likely to see a red card in at least one of their matches.

P R E V I E W

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).

S Q U A D

Algeria don’t need any telling how important goalkeeping is after the 2010 fiasco. M’bolhi 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?

T H E K E Y 3

VAHID HALILHODZIC - Unlike the other African countries, Algeria’s 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.

T H E B O S S

Anything Is Gravy - Algeria tend to think they’re quite a bit better than they really are. They have some history, dating back to the 60’s and 70’s, but in reality, anything better than the 2010 debacle will be just fine.



ALGERIA"The Desert Foxes"


BRAZIL"SELACAO"


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, it’d 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 Belgium’s 23 have World Cup experience, and they’ve 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?

P R E V I E W

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).

S Q U A D

Kompany is this team’s unquestioned leader and one of the best captains in football. Fullback is Belgium’s biggest weakness, Vertonghen’s play as a makeshift right-back is huge. Hazard is enjoying a career year, he’s Belgium’s brightest star. PLUS: Is this team just a little overrated? They’re novel and young, but at their best they have quarterfinal talent.

T H E K E Y 3

MARC WILMOTS - One of Belgium’s 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.

T H E B O S S

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.



BELGIUM"The Red Devils"


BRAZIL"SELACAO"


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 isn’t as much flair or ability in this Russian outfit than the sides that took the field at Euro 2008 and 2012. Of course, it’s not really 2014 that matters for Russia in 2014, it’s 2018 that matters, even right now. Russia aren’t exactly eager to disappoint on home soil. That’s why Capello has been signed to a contract extension before a ball has been kicked – a clear sign that Russia’s performance this summer doesn’t 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 it’s onwards and upwards to 2018.

P R E V I E W

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).

S Q U A D

Dzagoev burst onto the scene at Euro 2012 and has taken the mantle from axed former captain Andrei Arshavin as Russia’s 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.

T H E K E Y 3

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 it’s 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 world’s greatest competition.

T H E B O S S

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 haven’t ever seen Russia play up to their full potential means that Capello is expected to deliver in Brazil.



RUSSIA"Sbornaya"


BRAZIL"SELACAO"


Along with the USA and Mexico, they are the world’s 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 it’s 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 it’s fair to say that not many are expecting South Korea to advance. The team’s recent trend of getting out of the group stage in one tournament and failing to do the same the next appears to be safe.

P R E V I E W

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).

S Q U A D

South Korea may struggle for goals, so it’s 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.

T H E K E Y 3

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 Hong’s first top job.

T H E B O S S

Out of the Group - South Korea have never been able to replicate the magic from 2002, but they’ve been able to establish themselves as a respectable team. Advancement from the group stage is the baseline upon which each World Cup is judged.



SOUTH KOREA"Taegeuk Warriors"

7/13 3 ET Rio

6/28 12 ET Belo Horizonte

6/28 4 ET Rio

6/30 12 ET Brasilia

6/30 4 ET Porto Alegre

7/4 12 ET Rio

7/4 4 ET Fortaleza

7/8 4 ET Belo Horizonte

7/9 4 ET Sao Paulo

7/5 12 ET Brasilia

7/5 4 ET Salvador

6/29 12 ET Fortaleza

6/29 4 ET Recife

7/1 12 ET Sao Paulo

7/1 4 ET Salvador

7/12 4 ET Brasilia

Round of 16

Round of 16

Round of 16

Round of 16 Round of 16

Round of 16

Round of 16

Round of 16

Quarterfinal

Quarterfinal Quarterfinal

Quarterfinal

Semifinal SemifinalFinal

3 r d P l a c e W i n n e r

World Cup 2014K n o c k o u t b r a c k e t

C a m p e a o d o M u n d o

Group A Winner

Group B Runner-Up

Group D Runner-Up

Group F Runner-Up

Group G Winner

Group H Runner-Up

Group A Runner-Up

Group C Runner-Up

Group E Runner-Up

Group G Runner-Up

Group B Winner

Group D Winner

Group F Winner

Group H Winner

Group E Winner

Group C Winner

Visit www.worldsoccertalk.com - Bracket Design by @aghease

GROUP ABrazil ___v___ Croatia 6/12 4ET ESPN

Mexico ___v___ Cameroon 6/13 12ET ESPN2

Brazil ___v___ Mexico 6/17 3ET ESPN

Cameroon ___v___ Croatia 6/18 6ET ESPN

Cameroon ___v___ Brazil 6/23 4ET ESPN2

Croatia ___v___ Mexico 6/23 4ET ESPN

GROUP B

Chile ___v___ Australia 6/13 6ET ESPN2

Australia ___v___ Netherlands 6/18 12ET ESPN

Spain ___v___ Chile 6/18 3ET ESPN

Australia ___v___ Spain 6/23 12ET ESPN2

Netherlands ___v___ Chile 6/23 12ET ESPN

Spain ___v___ Netherlands 6/13 3ET ESPN

GROUP c

Ivory Coast ___v___ Japan 6/15 9ET ESPN

Colombia ___v___ Ivory Coast 6/19 12ET ESPN

Japan ___v___ Greece 6/19 6ET ESPN

Greece ___v___ Ivory Coast 6/24 4ET ESPN2

Japan ___v___ Colombia 6/24 4ET ESPN

Colombia ___v___ Greece 6/14 12ET ABC

GROUP D

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

Italy ___v___ Uruguay 6/24 12ET ESPN

Uruguay ___v___ Costa Rica 6/14 3ET ABC

GROUP E

France ___v___ Honduras 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

Switzerland ___v___ Ecuador 6/15 12ET ABC

GROUP f

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

Nigeria ___v___ Argentina 6/25 12ET ESPN

Argentina ___v___ Bosnia 6/15 6ET ESPN

GROUP G

Ghana ___v___ USA 6/16 6ET ESPN

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

Germany ___v___ Portugal 6/16 12ET ESPN

GROUP H

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

South Korea ___v___ Belgium 6/26 4ET ESPN

Belgium ___v___ Algeria 6/17 12ET ESPN3rd Place Winner ESPN

7/12 4ET Brasilia

WORLD CUP CHAMPION

Visit www.worldsoccertalk.com Bracket Design by @aghease

W O R L D C U P 2 014A1

B2

C1

D2

E1

F2

G1

H2

B1

A2

D1

C2

F1

E2

H1

G2

Round of 16 ABC

6/28 12ET Belo Horizonte

Round of 16 ABC

6/28 4ET Rio

Round of 16 ESPN

6/30 12ET Brasilia

Round of 16 ESPN

6/30 4ET Porto Alegre

Quarterfinal ESPN

7/4 4ET Fortaleza

Quarterfinal ESPN2

7/4 12ET Rio

Semifinal ESPN

7/8 4ET Belo Horizonte

Semifinal ESPN

7/9 4ET Sao Paulo

Quarterfinal ESPN

7/5 4ET Salvador

Quarterfinal ABC

7/5 12ET Brasilia

Round of 16 ESPN

6/29 12ET Fortaleza

Round of 16 ESPN

6/29 4ET Recife

Round of 16 ESPN

7/1 12ET Sao Paulo

Round of 16 ESPN

7/1 4ET Salvador

Final ABC

7/13 3ET Rio

Documents

2014 WORLD CUP GUIDEBOOK - World Soccer Talkworldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/world-cup...WORLD SOCCER TALK / WORLD CUP 2014 Estadio do Maracanã – Rio de Janiero –