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Looking ahead to World Cup 2018


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The 21st edition of the World Cup, taking place in Russia, from June 14th to July 15.





The World Cup is finally here. Well, not yet, only some 5 months left before the ball first kicks off in the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, but we can feel it closer than ever. 4 years since Germany lifted the trophy in El Maracana in Brazil, they look once again as favorites to win this year as well. They could be the first country to repeat as world champions since Brazil did so in 1958 and 1962. Germany comes in with arguably the deepest and most talented pool of players to choose from, ensuring Germany to make it far within the tournament.
Not to mention Germany comes off of just winning the 2017 Confederations Cup, in which they played their "B" team. And they still won. They're just that good really. They're pretty much set for present and long-term success for the next 3-4 World Cups. Germany has the chance to bring back crucial members of 2014's roster and add in younger talent to replace older players who are no longer available (aka Podolski, Schweinsteiger, and Mario Gomez). This gives Germany the chance for a unique team consisting of present and future talent. 
While Germany is looking strong, we also have plenty of other teams who can face them and possibly upset them. Teams such as Brazil, Argentina, Portugal, and France all have enough talent to compete against Germany and win the Cup as well.


Argentina has the best player ever on their team surrounded with enough talent and coaching to beat Germany. Any team with Lionel Messi will always have a shot to win it all, whether club or country. Maybe the defeat in 2014's final will motivate them enough for another run in the tournament and final get him the intl trophy he deserves. 

Portugal, the European Champions, are a strong threat against Germany, they have Cristiano Ronaldo and other young talents who complement him well. This is probably his final shot at a World Cup, and winning it could enhance his legacy and put him well ahead in the Messi v Ronaldo debate. Though looking sluggish in La Liga for Real Madrid, you can bet Ronaldo will be on his game by the time June comes around.

Brazil is home to a surge of beautiful football once again after their collapse in 2014. Its clear to say they're back on their game and playing with style that produces joy to watch. They have Neymar, the greatest *human* player on this Earth, behind Messi and Ronaldo who are clearly from another planet (no lie, a DNA test would be necessary at this point to make sure they're human). Brazil shined in the CONMEBOL qualifiers, essentially running away with the competition, losing just one game in total and producing convincing wins against Argentina, Colombia and Chile.









Last but not least, France is the last rival in which could pose a threat to the defending champions Germany. France has the most talented squad behind Germany, and their depth and youth is stronger than any of the other 3 teams. Talented players such as Griezmann, Martial, Pogba, Mbappe, Kante, Dembele, etc., make up this promising French team. As most of these players are just entering their prime, this large collection of young talent could push France to become world champions this summer in Russia. The heartbreak of losing the Euro Cup Final in the hands of Portugal at home could have served as plenty motivation for this young team to develop and mature before our own eyes. 


With that being said, this is being written currently in January, with plenty of time for change between now and June 14, which could improve or lessen a country's chance of coming out on top this summer. 


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