It's tough to look past the usual suspects isn't it. France look incredibly strong in my opinion and I can see then going all the way. The strength of their squad is emphasised by the quality of players not selected for the squad. Martial, Payet and Benzema to name just 3. Looking through the players they have taken, they look irresistible.
Argentina always look dangerous on paper. This tournament will be no different. Messi, Higuain, Dybala & Aguero are the selected front 4. Mauro Icardi of Inter Milan misses out as a result which is unthinkable given the season he's just had. It'll take a brave man to be against them going all the way.
Today has been spent trying to calm a colleagues hopes of seeing the Three Lions lift the trophy. We're just not good enough unfortunately. We should be. But we're not. Would we be favourites against Brazil? or France? or Spain? or Germany? or Argentina? or even Belgium in the group stage. I don't think so. Given that we have the best league in the world, we really shouldn't be flagging behind on the International stage but as a result of having such an enticing league to play in, English youth players just don't get much opportunity.
Could one of the underdogs come through the pack and cause an almighty shock? It just doesn't happen at the World Cup. The big guns always turn up and that's shown when looking at the list of winners since the very first tournament. Looking back over recent tournaments, Spain, Germany, France, Brazil & Italy have claimed the big prize. Point proven.
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