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Maglia Rosa Contenders
Nairo Quintana Movistar 10/11
he
Movistar have made it clear that they expect their lack of Grant tour titles to end this year. To this end, they have sent the big guns to the Giro. Nairo Quintana is a massive favourite for this. He’s an explosive climber that in this field all but maybe Rodriguez will struggle to live with. He has a very strong team behind him and following his second in the Tour de France last year behind Froome in his second (!) Grand Tour, he can win his first of many hear. He’s short at 10/11, who knows what the pressure of Grand Tour favouritism will do, and of course anything can happen in a three week stage race but should win barring accidents and illness.
Purito Rodriguez Katusha 3/1
Even at 35, Purito is surely the only man in the race that can live with the climbing of Quintana. Rodriguez was in 3rd in the 2013 Tour de France, only 40 seconds behind Quintana, and by the third week they were both climbing supremely well. Purito has been incredibly consistent in Grand Tours, with 8 top 4 finishes since the 2009 Vuelta. Desperately unlucky not to have already won a Grand Tour title, the Spanish nearly man was second to Hesjedal in 2012 and should probably have won the Vuelta the same year. He has his usual support team of Moreno, Paolini and Caruso with him. He has to prove he is over the Amstel Gold crash that caused him to have off days in Fleche Wallone and Liege-Bastonge-Liege but he will have plenty of time to ride himself into this race before the serious climbing starts in stages 8 and 9. I rate him the only serious danger to Quintana.
Cadel Evans BMC 12/1
The 2011 Tour de France winner is now 37 and he seemed to be on the downgrade when comfortably beaten by Wiggins and then Froome in the last two Tours but a podium in last year’s Giro shows there is life in the old dog yet, and this year he has looked strong Down Under and then when winning Trentino. The 2011 Tour de France champion has 5 Grand Tour podiums to his name in all, and although he might not be able to cope with the explosive climbing of Quintana, he’s probably the canniest of the main contenders and could well podium again.
Rigoberto Uran Uran Omega Pharma Quickstep 18/1
Uran was second last year for Sky after originally coming to support Wiggins and moved to Omega Pharma Quickstep to be a Grand tour team leader. I felt his form was somewhat underwhelming so far this year, but his time trial at Romandie was somewhat impressive. He often seems to go under the radar and it would be no surprise to see him underestimated again. He has a strong looking team supporting him and I can see him being a podium contender at least, and he’s one of the ones that could feasibly win outright given a race going in his favour.
Domenico Pozzovivo AG2R La Mondiale 28/1
Pozzovivo’s best Grand tour finish was 6th in La Vuelta last year, which included an incredible time trial, but he has 4 top 10s overall. His form has been solid this year, but his 5th in Liege-Bastogne-Liege shows what he is capable of when there’s a lot of climbing, and he and Moreno had the chasers worried for a long way in the final stages when they were off the front. I would be surprised to see him win here, or even podium but a top 6 finish is not unfeasible, despite the fact his team looks weaker than other contenders.
Michele Scarponi Astana 25/1
No. 1 as the GC man for Astana this year following Nibali’s win last year. Scarponi was given the 2011 Giro when Contador was banned for a positive clenbuterol test. Scarponi also has two Giro 4th placed finishes to his name. On all-known form he can’t beat the best climbers in this race, but a top 6 finish certainly isn’t beyond the realms of possibility, and he has some strong climbers in support such as Aru and Landa.
Daniel Martin Garmin 33/1
Turning into a real leader for Garmin, and looked like he could repeat his 2013 Liege-Bastogne-Liege win when falling on the final corner after coming 2nd in Fleche-Wallone. Has won stages in Tour de France and La Vuelta but his 13th in the 2011 Vuelta remains his best finish so far. Whether he has the consistency to go through a 3-week Grand Tour remains to be seen but his recent forms looks as strong as anyone’s and the Giro has long been the target for this year.
Rafal Majka Tinkoff Saxo 50/1
A virtual unknown when he was announced as Saxo’s GC man for last year’s Giro, but the young Polish climber outperformed all expectations to finish 7th in only his 3rd Grand Tour. It’s unclear whether he or Roche are team leaders but he could improve again and it’s not hard to see him improving on last year, even if his form this season is unspectacular.
Przemyslaw Niemiec Lampre 50/1
Another of the surprise packages of 2013 back again to see whether he can make further progress, this young Polish climber could give another good account. He looked in good form in Trentino when he finished 3rd overall behind Evans and Pozzovivo, and finished 21st in Liege-Bastogne-Liege but was actually the first to attack from the front group on the final climb so must be in good shape. Niemiec has Ulissi and Cunego with him and so Lampre have options but Niemiec looks like he’s their best GC hope.
Ivan Basso Cannondale 50/1
Twice a winner in 2006 and 2010, it remains to be seen whether Basso can perform at anywhere near the level needed to threaten the best climbers in this race. Now 36 and he hasn’t shown anything this year that suggests he is capable of winning, personally I would find it a big shock if Basso podiumed, but he knows his way round a Grand tour having ridden in 17 and if Chris Horner can win a Vuelta then who knows? Should be a contender for a top 10.
Ryder Hesjedal Garmin 66/1
It isn't clear whether Hesjedal or Martin will be the team leader of Garmin, but Hesjedal is someone that knows what it takes to win this race, doing so in thrilling fashion two years ago. That win probably came as a bit of a surprise, but he did finish 6th in the 2010 Tour de France. Hesjedal has only really hinted at returning to the sort of form that could see him repeat that win, but he is one that would certainly be taken seriously by the main protagonists if he was near the top of the standings going into the third week.
Nicholas Roche Tinkoff 125/1
Roche might be going slightly under the radar here. Moved to Saxo last year, primarily as a super-domestique for Contador, and whilst he didn’t seem in great form in the Tour de France Roche proved he can compete with the mountain goats in the Vuelta. He won a stage, and only a bad day in shocking conditions stopped him being in contention for a podium. Only Horner, Nibali, Valverde and Rodriguez finished ahead of him, so that form stacks up well. Like Martin, he should be boosted by competing in his “home” Grand Tour, and if he rather than Majka is team leader, and he’s in the same form he showed last autumn, he could get a top 10 finish or better.
Dario Cataldo Sky 125/1
Cataldo won a stage of the 2012 Vuelta, winning from a breakaway and beating Thomas de Gendt to the win. Was snapped up by Sky as a stage race domestique and potential future GC contender. His time has come sooner than the hierarchy at Sky may have expected, Porte’s illness and Henao’s biological passport irregularities have ruled them out of this race and as such Cataldo is their only viable option to compete for maglia rosa.
Pierre Rolland Europcar 150/1
Rolland came to prominence when he won on Alpe d’Huez in the 2011 Tour de France, and he won another mountain stage the following year. Finished 10th and 8th in those two editions but hasn’t developed into the sort of GC contender many thought he might do yet, seemingly lacking both 3-week consistency and time trialling skills. This edition of the Giro might suit his style though, he has plenty of miles in the legs this year. I thought he looked strong at Liege-Bastonge-Liege, but he eventually finished 24th. He could outride his massive price here as sole leader of a Europcar team desperate to accumulate victories and points.
Julian Arredondo 200/1 and Robert Kiserlovski 250/1 both Trek
Kiserlovski is an interesting outsider. He was absolutely superb riding for Chris Horner in the 2012 Vuelta, on each mountain stage he was the last domestique to leave the wheel of his leader. He comes to this year's Giro as nominated team leader for Trek, and if he climbs like that he could outride his price. He's had 4 top 20 finishes in Grand Tours, with his best finish 10th in the 2010 Giro. He's done the miles this year, with 6th in Tirrenico-Adriatico, 10th in Catalunya and 16th in Basque Country. He's an outsider I feel could go well, but if it doesn't happen Trek also have the Colombian climber Julian Arredondo who has looked in excellent form in the mountains. He won last year in Langkawi and was 2nd in the Tour of Japan whilst riding for the Japanese Team Nippo. This form secured a move to Trek, and the 25 year old has quickly found his feet with a 4th in San Luis, 5th in Tirrenico-Adriatico and also impressing in Fleche Wallone and Liege-Bastogne-Liege. It's interesting that while they are similar prices for the outright, with Arredondo slightly shorter; Kiserlovski is only 5/4 for a top 10 finish and Arredondo is 7/1.
http://www.oddschecker.com/cycling/giro-ditalia/winner
Maglia Rosa Contenders
Nairo Quintana Movistar 10/11
he Movistar have made it clear that they expect their lack of Grant tour titles to end this year. To this end, they have sent the big guns to the Giro. Nairo Quintana is a massive favourite for this. He’s an explosive climber that in this field all but maybe Rodriguez will struggle to live with. He has a very strong team behind him and following his second in the Tour de France last year behind Froome in his second (!) Grand Tour, he can win his first of many hear. He’s short at 10/11, who knows what the pressure of Grand Tour favouritism will do, and of course anything can happen in a three week stage race but should win barring accidents and illness.
Purito Rodriguez Katusha 3/1
Even at 35, Purito is surely the only man in the race that can live with the climbing of Quintana. Rodriguez was in 3rd in the 2013 Tour de France, only 40 seconds behind Quintana, and by the third week they were both climbing supremely well. Purito has been incredibly consistent in Grand Tours, with 8 top 4 finishes since the 2009 Vuelta. Desperately unlucky not to have already won a Grand Tour title, the Spanish nearly man was second to Hesjedal in 2012 and should probably have won the Vuelta the same year. He has his usual support team of Moreno, Paolini and Caruso with him. He has to prove he is over the Amstel Gold crash that caused him to have off days in Fleche Wallone and Liege-Bastonge-Liege but he will have plenty of time to ride himself into this race before the serious climbing starts in stages 8 and 9. I rate him the only serious danger to Quintana.
Cadel Evans BMC 12/1
The 2011 Tour de France winner is now 37 and he seemed to be on the downgrade when comfortably beaten by Wiggins and then Froome in the last two Tours but a podium in last year’s Giro shows there is life in the old dog yet, and this year he has looked strong Down Under and then when winning Trentino. The 2011 Tour de France champion has 5 Grand Tour podiums to his name in all, and although he might not be able to cope with the explosive climbing of Quintana, he’s probably the canniest of the main contenders and could well podium again.Rigoberto Uran Uran Omega Pharma Quickstep 18/1
Uran was second last year for Sky after originally coming to support Wiggins and moved to Omega Pharma Quickstep to be a Grand tour team leader. I felt his form was somewhat underwhelming so far this year, but his time trial at Romandie was somewhat impressive. He often seems to go under the radar and it would be no surprise to see him underestimated again. He has a strong looking team supporting him and I can see him being a podium contender at least, and he’s one of the ones that could feasibly win outright given a race going in his favour.
Domenico Pozzovivo AG2R La Mondiale 28/1
Pozzovivo’s best Grand tour finish was 6th in La Vuelta last year, which included an incredible time trial, but he has 4 top 10s overall. His form has been solid this year, but his 5th in Liege-Bastogne-Liege shows what he is capable of when there’s a lot of climbing, and he and Moreno had the chasers worried for a long way in the final stages when they were off the front. I would be surprised to see him win here, or even podium but a top 6 finish is not unfeasible, despite the fact his team looks weaker than other contenders.
Michele Scarponi Astana 25/1
No. 1 as the GC man for Astana this year following Nibali’s win last year. Scarponi was given the 2011 Giro when Contador was banned for a positive clenbuterol test. Scarponi also has two Giro 4th placed finishes to his name. On all-known form he can’t beat the best climbers in this race, but a top 6 finish certainly isn’t beyond the realms of possibility, and he has some strong climbers in support such as Aru and Landa.
Daniel Martin Garmin 33/1
Turning into a real leader for Garmin, and looked like he could repeat his 2013 Liege-Bastogne-Liege win when falling on the final corner after coming 2nd in Fleche-Wallone. Has won stages in Tour de France and La Vuelta but his 13th in the 2011 Vuelta remains his best finish so far. Whether he has the consistency to go through a 3-week Grand Tour remains to be seen but his recent forms looks as strong as anyone’s and the Giro has long been the target for this year.
Rafal Majka Tinkoff Saxo 50/1
A virtual unknown when he was announced as Saxo’s GC man for last year’s Giro, but the young Polish climber outperformed all expectations to finish 7th in only his 3rd Grand Tour. It’s unclear whether he or Roche are team leaders but he could improve again and it’s not hard to see him improving on last year, even if his form this season is unspectacular.
Przemyslaw Niemiec Lampre 50/1
Another of the surprise packages of 2013 back again to see whether he can make further progress, this young Polish climber could give another good account. He looked in good form in Trentino when he finished 3rd overall behind Evans and Pozzovivo, and finished 21st in Liege-Bastogne-Liege but was actually the first to attack from the front group on the final climb so must be in good shape. Niemiec has Ulissi and Cunego with him and so Lampre have options but Niemiec looks like he’s their best GC hope.
Ivan Basso Cannondale 50/1
Twice a winner in 2006 and 2010, it remains to be seen whether Basso can perform at anywhere near the level needed to threaten the best climbers in this race. Now 36 and he hasn’t shown anything this year that suggests he is capable of winning, personally I would find it a big shock if Basso podiumed, but he knows his way round a Grand tour having ridden in 17 and if Chris Horner can win a Vuelta then who knows? Should be a contender for a top 10.
Ryder Hesjedal Garmin 66/1
It isn't clear whether Hesjedal or Martin will be the team leader of Garmin, but Hesjedal is someone that knows what it takes to win this race, doing so in thrilling fashion two years ago. That win probably came as a bit of a surprise, but he did finish 6th in the 2010 Tour de France. Hesjedal has only really hinted at returning to the sort of form that could see him repeat that win, but he is one that would certainly be taken seriously by the main protagonists if he was near the top of the standings going into the third week.
Nicholas Roche Tinkoff 125/1
Roche might be going slightly under the radar here. Moved to Saxo last year, primarily as a super-domestique for Contador, and whilst he didn’t seem in great form in the Tour de France Roche proved he can compete with the mountain goats in the Vuelta. He won a stage, and only a bad day in shocking conditions stopped him being in contention for a podium. Only Horner, Nibali, Valverde and Rodriguez finished ahead of him, so that form stacks up well. Like Martin, he should be boosted by competing in his “home” Grand Tour, and if he rather than Majka is team leader, and he’s in the same form he showed last autumn, he could get a top 10 finish or better.
Dario Cataldo Sky 125/1
Cataldo won a stage of the 2012 Vuelta, winning from a breakaway and beating Thomas de Gendt to the win. Was snapped up by Sky as a stage race domestique and potential future GC contender. His time has come sooner than the hierarchy at Sky may have expected, Porte’s illness and Henao’s biological passport irregularities have ruled them out of this race and as such Cataldo is their only viable option to compete for maglia rosa.
Pierre Rolland Europcar 150/1
Rolland came to prominence when he won on Alpe d’Huez in the 2011 Tour de France, and he won another mountain stage the following year. Finished 10th and 8th in those two editions but hasn’t developed into the sort of GC contender many thought he might do yet, seemingly lacking both 3-week consistency and time trialling skills. This edition of the Giro might suit his style though, he has plenty of miles in the legs this year. I thought he looked strong at Liege-Bastonge-Liege, but he eventually finished 24th. He could outride his massive price here as sole leader of a Europcar team desperate to accumulate victories and points.
Julian Arredondo 200/1 and Robert Kiserlovski 250/1 both Trek
Kiserlovski is an interesting outsider. He was absolutely superb riding for Chris Horner in the 2012 Vuelta, on each mountain stage he was the last domestique to leave the wheel of his leader. He comes to this year's Giro as nominated team leader for Trek, and if he climbs like that he could outride his price. He's had 4 top 20 finishes in Grand Tours, with his best finish 10th in the 2010 Giro. He's done the miles this year, with 6th in Tirrenico-Adriatico, 10th in Catalunya and 16th in Basque Country. He's an outsider I feel could go well, but if it doesn't happen Trek also have the Colombian climber Julian Arredondo who has looked in excellent form in the mountains. He won last year in Langkawi and was 2nd in the Tour of Japan whilst riding for the Japanese Team Nippo. This form secured a move to Trek, and the 25 year old has quickly found his feet with a 4th in San Luis, 5th in Tirrenico-Adriatico and also impressing in Fleche Wallone and Liege-Bastogne-Liege. It's interesting that while they are similar prices for the outright, with Arredondo slightly shorter; Kiserlovski is only 5/4 for a top 10 finish and Arredondo is 7/1.
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Best Prices
http://www.oddschecker.com/cycling/giro-ditalia/winner
Maglia Rosa Contenders
Nairo Quintana Movistar 10/11
he
Movistar have made it clear that they expect their lack of Grand tour titles to end this year. To this end, they have sent the big guns to the Giro. Nairo Quintana is a massive favourite for this. He’s an explosive climber that in this field all but maybe Rodriguez will struggle to live with. He has a very strong team behind him and following his second in the Tour de France last year behind Froome in his second (!) Grand Tour, he can win his first of many here. He’s short at 10/11, who knows what the pressure of Grand Tour favouritism will do? Of course anything can happen in a three week stage race but Quintana should win barring accidents and illness and I expect him to.
Purito Rodriguez Katusha 3/1
Even at 35, Purito is surely the only man in the race that can live with the climbing of Quintana. Rodriguez was in 3rd in the 2013 Tour de France, only 40 seconds behind Quintana, and by the third week they were both climbing supremely well. Purito has been incredibly consistent in Grand Tours, with 8 top 4 finishes since the 2009 Vuelta. Desperately unlucky not to have already won a Grand Tour title, the Spanish nearly man was second to Hesjedal in 2012 and should probably have won the Vuelta the same year. He has his usual support team of Moreno, Paolini and Caruso with him. He has to prove he is over the Amstel Gold crash that caused him to have off days in Fleche Wallone and Liege-Bastonge-Liege but he will have plenty of time to ride himself into this race before the serious climbing starts in stages 8 and 9. I rate him the only serious danger to Quintana.
Cadel Evans BMC 12/1
The 2011 Tour de France winner is now 37 and he seemed to be on the downgrade when comfortably beaten by Wiggins and then Froome in the last two Tours but a podium in last year’s Giro shows there is life in the old dog yet, and this year he has looked strong Down Under and then when winning Trentino. The 2011 Tour de France champion has 5 Grand Tour podiums to his name in all, and although he might not be able to cope with the explosive climbing of Quintana, he’s probably the canniest of the main contenders and could well podium again.
Rigoberto Uran Uran Omega Pharma Quickstep 18/1
Uran was second last year for Sky after originally coming to support Wiggins and moved to Omega Pharma Quickstep to be a Grand tour team leader. I felt his form was somewhat underwhelming so far this year, but his time trial at Romandie was impressive, and shows the form he is in. He often seems to go under the radar and it would be no surprise to see him underestimated again. He has a strong looking team supporting him and I can see him being a podium contender at least, and he’s one of the ones that could feasibly win outright given a race going in his favour. I make him a small back at 18/1 and a bigger podium bet given a decent price.
Domenico Pozzovivo AG2R La Mondiale 28/1
Pozzovivo’s best Grand tour finish was 6th in La Vuelta last year, which included an incredible time trial, but he has 4 top 10s overall. His form has been solid this year, but his 5th in Liege-Bastogne-Liege shows what he is capable of when there’s a lot of climbing, and he and Moreno had the chasers worried for a long way in the final stages when they were off the front. I would be surprised to see him win here, or even podium but a top 6 finish is not unfeasible, despite the fact his team looks weaker than other contenders.
Michele Scarponi Astana 25/1
No. 1 as the GC man for Astana this year following Nibali’s win last year. Scarponi was given the 2011 Giro when Contador was banned for a positive clenbuterol test. Scarponi also has two Giro 4th placed finishes to his name. On all-known form he can’t beat the best climbers in this race, but a top 6 finish certainly isn’t beyond the realms of possibility, and he has some strong climbers in support such as Aru and Landa.
Daniel Martin Garmin 33/1
Turning into a real leader for Garmin, and looked like he could repeat his 2013 Liege-Bastogne-Liege win when falling on the final corner after coming 2nd in Fleche-Wallone. Has won stages in Tour de France and La Vuelta but his 13th in the 2011 Vuelta remains his best Grand Tour finish so far. Whether he has the consistency to go through a 3-week Grand Tour remains to be seen but his recent forms looks as strong as anyone’s and the Giro has long been the target for this year.
Rafal Majka Tinkoff Saxo 50/1
A virtual unknown when he was announced as Saxo’s GC man for last year’s Giro, but the young Polish climber outperformed all expectations to finish 7th in only his 3rd Grand Tour. It’s unclear whether he or Roche are team leaders but he could go well again and it’s not hard to see him improving on last year, even if his form this season is unspectacular.
Przemyslaw Niemiec Lampre 50/1
Another of the surprise packages of 2013 back again to see whether he can make further progress, this young Polish climber could give another good account. He looked in good form in Trentino when he finished 3rd overall behind Evans and Pozzovivo, and finished 21st in Liege-Bastogne-Liege but was actually the first to attack from the front group on the final climb so must be in good shape. Niemiec has Ulissi and Cunego with him and so Lampre have options but Niemiec looks like he’s their best GC hope.
Ivan Basso Cannondale 50/1
Twice a winner in 2006 and 2010, it remains to be seen whether Basso can perform at anywhere near the level needed to threaten the best climbers in this race. Now 36 and he hasn’t shown anything this year that suggests he is capable of winning, personally I would find it a big shock if Basso podiumed, but he knows his way round a Grand tour having ridden in 17 and if Chris Horner can win a Vuelta then who knows? Should be a contender for a top 10.
Ryder Hesjedal Garmin 66/1
It isn't clear whether Hesjedal or Martin will be the team leader of Garmin, but Hesjedal is someone that knows what it takes to win this race, doing so in thrilling fashion two years ago. That win probably came as a bit of a surprise, but he did finish 6th in the 2010 Tour de France. Hesjedal has only really hinted at returning to the sort of form that could see him repeat that win, but he is one that would certainly be taken seriously by the main protagonists if he was near the top of the standings going into the third week.
Nicholas Roche Tinkoff 125/1
Roche might be going slightly under the radar here. Moved to Saxo last year, primarily as a super-domestique for Contador, and whilst he didn’t seem in great form in the Tour de France Roche proved he can compete with the mountain goats in the Vuelta. He won a stage, and only a bad day in shocking conditions stopped him being in contention for a podium. Only Horner, Nibali, Valverde and Rodriguez finished ahead of him, so that form stacks up well. Like Martin, he should be boosted by competing in his “home” Grand Tour, and if he rather than Majka is team leader, and he’s in the same form he showed last autumn, he could get a top 10 finish or better.
Dario Cataldo Sky 125/1
Cataldo won a stage of the 2012 Vuelta, winning from a breakaway and beating Thomas de Gendt to the win. Was snapped up by Sky as a stage race domestique and potential future GC contender. His time has come sooner than the hierarchy at Sky may have expected, Porte’s illness and Henao’s biological passport irregularities have ruled them out of this race and as such Cataldo is their only viable option to compete for maglia rosa.
Pierre Rolland Europcar 150/1
Rolland came to prominence when he won on Alpe d’Huez in the 2011 Tour de France, and he won another mountain stage the following year. Finished 10th and 8th in those two editions but hasn’t developed into the sort of GC contender many thought he might do yet, seemingly lacking both 3-week consistency and time trialling skills. This edition of the Giro might suit his style though, he has plenty of miles in the legs this year. I thought he looked strong at Liege-Bastonge-Liege, but he eventually finished 24th. He could outride his massive price here as sole leader of a Europcar team desperate to accumulate victories and points.
Julian Arredondo 200/1 and Robert Kiserlovski 250/1 both Trek
Kiserlovski is an interesting outsider. He was absolutely superb riding for Chris Horner in the 2012 Vuelta, on each mountain stage he was the last domestique to leave the wheel of his leader. He comes to this year's Giro as nominated team leader for Trek, and if he climbs like that he could outride his price. He's had 4 top 20 finishes in Grand Tours, with his best finish 10th in the 2010 Giro. He's done the miles this year, with 6th in Tirrenico-Adriatico, 10th in Catalunya and 16th in Basque Country. He's an outsider I feel could go well, but if it doesn't happen Trek also have the Colombian climber Julian Arredondo who has looked in excellent form in the mountains. He won last year in Langkawi and was 2nd in the Tour of Japan whilst riding for the Japanese Team Nippo. This form secured a move to Trek, and the 25 year old has quickly found his feet with a 4th in San Luis, 5th in Tirrenico-Adriatico and also impressing in Fleche Wallone and Liege-Bastogne-Liege. It's interesting that while they are similar prices for the outright, with Arredondo slightly shorter; Kiserlovski is only 5/4 for a top 10 finish and Arredondo is 7/1.
Summary
I’m convinced Quintana is head and shoulders above this field and was tempted to have an extremely large bet on him at just above evens on the Exchange. As it is I will probably back him to cover my other outright bets and no more. I think Roche and Kiserlovski could be the ‘surprise’ packages. The books have been very slow to price up anything other than the outright market, but this is what I’ve gone for. With regard to the sprinters’ jersey, I’m not sure the books have taken into account the changes in the points system this year, and Rodriguez and Quintana are only a bit bigger than Kittel and Bouhanni, despite 6 pan-flat stages in the first 13. Flat stages are worth 50 points to the winner, with mountain stages only worth 15 points to the first over the line. Intermediate sprint points are equally skewed to favour sprinters so in my eyes the climbers have no chance at unless they are also contesting bunch and immediate sprints, which the GC men will not be. Of course, Kittel and Bouhanni may decide to abandon before the serious climbing starts, or they may not make the cutoff on some stages, but I think the chance to win in Trieste wearing the points jersey may be too hard to resist.
My bets
Outright winner
2pts each way Rigoberto Uran 18/1
.25pts each way Przemyslaw Niemiec 50/1
.25pts each way Robert Kiserlovski 250/1
Top 10 finish
3pts Nicholas Roche 7/4
1pt Pierre Rolland 3/1
.5pts Alexander Geniez 8/1
.5pts Jose Herrara 50/1
Points Classification
.5pt Marcel Kittel 15/1
.5pt Nacer Bouhanni 15/1
http://www.oddschecker.com/cycling/giro-ditalia/winner
Maglia Rosa Contenders
Nairo Quintana Movistar 10/11
he Movistar have made it clear that they expect their lack of Grand tour titles to end this year. To this end, they have sent the big guns to the Giro. Nairo Quintana is a massive favourite for this. He’s an explosive climber that in this field all but maybe Rodriguez will struggle to live with. He has a very strong team behind him and following his second in the Tour de France last year behind Froome in his second (!) Grand Tour, he can win his first of many here. He’s short at 10/11, who knows what the pressure of Grand Tour favouritism will do? Of course anything can happen in a three week stage race but Quintana should win barring accidents and illness and I expect him to.
Purito Rodriguez Katusha 3/1
Even at 35, Purito is surely the only man in the race that can live with the climbing of Quintana. Rodriguez was in 3rd in the 2013 Tour de France, only 40 seconds behind Quintana, and by the third week they were both climbing supremely well. Purito has been incredibly consistent in Grand Tours, with 8 top 4 finishes since the 2009 Vuelta. Desperately unlucky not to have already won a Grand Tour title, the Spanish nearly man was second to Hesjedal in 2012 and should probably have won the Vuelta the same year. He has his usual support team of Moreno, Paolini and Caruso with him. He has to prove he is over the Amstel Gold crash that caused him to have off days in Fleche Wallone and Liege-Bastonge-Liege but he will have plenty of time to ride himself into this race before the serious climbing starts in stages 8 and 9. I rate him the only serious danger to Quintana.
Cadel Evans BMC 12/1
The 2011 Tour de France winner is now 37 and he seemed to be on the downgrade when comfortably beaten by Wiggins and then Froome in the last two Tours but a podium in last year’s Giro shows there is life in the old dog yet, and this year he has looked strong Down Under and then when winning Trentino. The 2011 Tour de France champion has 5 Grand Tour podiums to his name in all, and although he might not be able to cope with the explosive climbing of Quintana, he’s probably the canniest of the main contenders and could well podium again.
Rigoberto Uran Uran Omega Pharma Quickstep 18/1
Uran was second last year for Sky after originally coming to support Wiggins and moved to Omega Pharma Quickstep to be a Grand tour team leader. I felt his form was somewhat underwhelming so far this year, but his time trial at Romandie was impressive, and shows the form he is in. He often seems to go under the radar and it would be no surprise to see him underestimated again. He has a strong looking team supporting him and I can see him being a podium contender at least, and he’s one of the ones that could feasibly win outright given a race going in his favour. I make him a small back at 18/1 and a bigger podium bet given a decent price.
Domenico Pozzovivo AG2R La Mondiale 28/1
Pozzovivo’s best Grand tour finish was 6th in La Vuelta last year, which included an incredible time trial, but he has 4 top 10s overall. His form has been solid this year, but his 5th in Liege-Bastogne-Liege shows what he is capable of when there’s a lot of climbing, and he and Moreno had the chasers worried for a long way in the final stages when they were off the front. I would be surprised to see him win here, or even podium but a top 6 finish is not unfeasible, despite the fact his team looks weaker than other contenders.
Michele Scarponi Astana 25/1
No. 1 as the GC man for Astana this year following Nibali’s win last year. Scarponi was given the 2011 Giro when Contador was banned for a positive clenbuterol test. Scarponi also has two Giro 4th placed finishes to his name. On all-known form he can’t beat the best climbers in this race, but a top 6 finish certainly isn’t beyond the realms of possibility, and he has some strong climbers in support such as Aru and Landa.
Daniel Martin Garmin 33/1
Turning into a real leader for Garmin, and looked like he could repeat his 2013 Liege-Bastogne-Liege win when falling on the final corner after coming 2nd in Fleche-Wallone. Has won stages in Tour de France and La Vuelta but his 13th in the 2011 Vuelta remains his best Grand Tour finish so far. Whether he has the consistency to go through a 3-week Grand Tour remains to be seen but his recent forms looks as strong as anyone’s and the Giro has long been the target for this year.
Rafal Majka Tinkoff Saxo 50/1
A virtual unknown when he was announced as Saxo’s GC man for last year’s Giro, but the young Polish climber outperformed all expectations to finish 7th in only his 3rd Grand Tour. It’s unclear whether he or Roche are team leaders but he could go well again and it’s not hard to see him improving on last year, even if his form this season is unspectacular.
Przemyslaw Niemiec Lampre 50/1
Another of the surprise packages of 2013 back again to see whether he can make further progress, this young Polish climber could give another good account. He looked in good form in Trentino when he finished 3rd overall behind Evans and Pozzovivo, and finished 21st in Liege-Bastogne-Liege but was actually the first to attack from the front group on the final climb so must be in good shape. Niemiec has Ulissi and Cunego with him and so Lampre have options but Niemiec looks like he’s their best GC hope.
Ivan Basso Cannondale 50/1
Twice a winner in 2006 and 2010, it remains to be seen whether Basso can perform at anywhere near the level needed to threaten the best climbers in this race. Now 36 and he hasn’t shown anything this year that suggests he is capable of winning, personally I would find it a big shock if Basso podiumed, but he knows his way round a Grand tour having ridden in 17 and if Chris Horner can win a Vuelta then who knows? Should be a contender for a top 10.
Ryder Hesjedal Garmin 66/1
It isn't clear whether Hesjedal or Martin will be the team leader of Garmin, but Hesjedal is someone that knows what it takes to win this race, doing so in thrilling fashion two years ago. That win probably came as a bit of a surprise, but he did finish 6th in the 2010 Tour de France. Hesjedal has only really hinted at returning to the sort of form that could see him repeat that win, but he is one that would certainly be taken seriously by the main protagonists if he was near the top of the standings going into the third week.
Nicholas Roche Tinkoff 125/1
Roche might be going slightly under the radar here. Moved to Saxo last year, primarily as a super-domestique for Contador, and whilst he didn’t seem in great form in the Tour de France Roche proved he can compete with the mountain goats in the Vuelta. He won a stage, and only a bad day in shocking conditions stopped him being in contention for a podium. Only Horner, Nibali, Valverde and Rodriguez finished ahead of him, so that form stacks up well. Like Martin, he should be boosted by competing in his “home” Grand Tour, and if he rather than Majka is team leader, and he’s in the same form he showed last autumn, he could get a top 10 finish or better.
Dario Cataldo Sky 125/1
Cataldo won a stage of the 2012 Vuelta, winning from a breakaway and beating Thomas de Gendt to the win. Was snapped up by Sky as a stage race domestique and potential future GC contender. His time has come sooner than the hierarchy at Sky may have expected, Porte’s illness and Henao’s biological passport irregularities have ruled them out of this race and as such Cataldo is their only viable option to compete for maglia rosa.
Pierre Rolland Europcar 150/1
Rolland came to prominence when he won on Alpe d’Huez in the 2011 Tour de France, and he won another mountain stage the following year. Finished 10th and 8th in those two editions but hasn’t developed into the sort of GC contender many thought he might do yet, seemingly lacking both 3-week consistency and time trialling skills. This edition of the Giro might suit his style though, he has plenty of miles in the legs this year. I thought he looked strong at Liege-Bastonge-Liege, but he eventually finished 24th. He could outride his massive price here as sole leader of a Europcar team desperate to accumulate victories and points.
Julian Arredondo 200/1 and Robert Kiserlovski 250/1 both Trek
Kiserlovski is an interesting outsider. He was absolutely superb riding for Chris Horner in the 2012 Vuelta, on each mountain stage he was the last domestique to leave the wheel of his leader. He comes to this year's Giro as nominated team leader for Trek, and if he climbs like that he could outride his price. He's had 4 top 20 finishes in Grand Tours, with his best finish 10th in the 2010 Giro. He's done the miles this year, with 6th in Tirrenico-Adriatico, 10th in Catalunya and 16th in Basque Country. He's an outsider I feel could go well, but if it doesn't happen Trek also have the Colombian climber Julian Arredondo who has looked in excellent form in the mountains. He won last year in Langkawi and was 2nd in the Tour of Japan whilst riding for the Japanese Team Nippo. This form secured a move to Trek, and the 25 year old has quickly found his feet with a 4th in San Luis, 5th in Tirrenico-Adriatico and also impressing in Fleche Wallone and Liege-Bastogne-Liege. It's interesting that while they are similar prices for the outright, with Arredondo slightly shorter; Kiserlovski is only 5/4 for a top 10 finish and Arredondo is 7/1.
Summary
I’m convinced Quintana is head and shoulders above this field and was tempted to have an extremely large bet on him at just above evens on the Exchange. As it is I will probably back him to cover my other outright bets and no more. I think Roche and Kiserlovski could be the ‘surprise’ packages. The books have been very slow to price up anything other than the outright market, but this is what I’ve gone for. With regard to the sprinters’ jersey, I’m not sure the books have taken into account the changes in the points system this year, and Rodriguez and Quintana are only a bit bigger than Kittel and Bouhanni, despite 6 pan-flat stages in the first 13. Flat stages are worth 50 points to the winner, with mountain stages only worth 15 points to the first over the line. Intermediate sprint points are equally skewed to favour sprinters so in my eyes the climbers have no chance at unless they are also contesting bunch and immediate sprints, which the GC men will not be. Of course, Kittel and Bouhanni may decide to abandon before the serious climbing starts, or they may not make the cutoff on some stages, but I think the chance to win in Trieste wearing the points jersey may be too hard to resist.
My bets
Outright winner
2pts each way Rigoberto Uran 18/1
.25pts each way Przemyslaw Niemiec 50/1
.25pts each way Robert Kiserlovski 250/1
Top 10 finish
3pts Nicholas Roche 7/4
1pt Pierre Rolland 3/1
.5pts Alexander Geniez 8/1
.5pts Jose Herrara 50/1
Points Classification
.5pt Marcel Kittel 15/1
.5pt Nacer Bouhanni 15/1
Weather Conditions & Venues
The World Cup takes place in Brazil’s winter but that does not mean that the conditions will necessarily be favourable for European teams. The biggest issue will be humidity in some areas of the country. It is a factor that can make a temperature of 30 degrees seem more unbearable than a dry heat of over 40 degrees, and if playing a high-intensity football match, it will have a significant bearing on a team's performance levels.
When Italy laboured to a 4-3 victory over Japan at the Confederations Cup in June, head coach Cesare Prandelli was quick to complain: "We struggled like crazy tonight. The humidity is something we have to deal with, as it really is difficult." (Football-Italia)
At the World Cup these complaints could be even louder, with the European nations in particular set to find conditions particularly tough. They will not be alone in suffering. For some of the East Asian, West African and South American sides familiarity with the conditions could be a great advantage. The place where humidity will be worst throughout the course of the tournament is Manaus, in Northwest Brazil, where levels will typically range between 57-99 percent for the time of year, per WeatherSpark.
Dew Point analysis, which gives a better indication of how conditions will feel on a personal level, as it relates to the evaporation of sweat from the skin, suggests conditions will vary from muggy to oppressive. The one saving grace, however, is that temperatures should not rise above low-to-mid 30s Celsius—a temperature most sides will be accustomed to.
The North and North-East of Brazil will all offer similarly difficult conditions, as Italy discovered at the Confederations Cup. Recife is described as being "muggy to very muggy", per WeatherSpark, while Fortaleza, Natal and Salvador will offer similar conditions.
The South East of the country should be a much more pleasant environment, with temperatures in Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, Curitiba and Belo Horizonte all set to be mid-20s for much of the tournament.
While it can get humid, the lower temperatures will help considerably, with dew point analysis suggesting that, for the most part, conditions will be comfortable for those taking part.
The places that sides most affected by humidity will be queuing up to play, however, are Brasilia, Porto Alegre and Cuiaba. The furthest west of the cities in the South of Brazil, Cuiaba will be hot but will also barely register in terms of humidity. Brasilia, which also remains fairly dry in winter, will be similarly refreshing.
However, it is Porto Alegre that will feel most at home to sides suffering in the sticky conditions of the North. The furthest South of all the cities to be used in the tournament, the average daily temperature for the summer months is just 19 degrees. With the dew point reading low as a result, even the area's mild humidity seldom become an issue. For Northern European sides, it is the city they will most hope to visit en-route to a potential final.
Summary of conditions of venues
“Difficult” venues for European sides (temperature around 28-33C and very humid)
Manaus
Recife
Fortaleza
Natal
Salvador
“Normal” venues ok for European sides (may be hot or humid but should avoid the horrible combination of both at once)
Rio de Janeiro
Sao Paolo
Belo Horizonte
Curitiba
“Perfect” venues for European sides (cool in temperature and/or no humidity)
Brasilia
Cuiaba
Porto Alegre
Estadio de Maracana
RIO DE JANEIRO
Rio was capital of Brazil from 1764 until 1960 when Brasilia became administrative capital. It will also be host to the 2016 Olympics.
Weather summary status for Euro sides = normal
76,804
Built =1950 (Remodelled 2013)
Group Games
Argentina v Bosnia June 16
Spain v Chile June 18
Belgium v Russia June22
Ecuador v France June 25
2nd Round
Winners C v R/U D June 28
QF
53 v 54 July 4
Final July 13
Arena de Sao Paolo
SAO PAOLO
Sao Paolo is the biggest city in Brazil and all South America with over 11 million inhabitants
65,807
Weather summary status for Euro sides = normal
Built =2014
Group Games
Brazil v Croatia June 12
Uruguay v England June 19
Netherlands v Chile June 23
South Korea v Belgium June 26
2nd Round
Winner F v R/U E July 1
QF
53 v 54 July 4
SF
59 v 60 July 9
Estadio Nacional
BRASILIA
Brasilia was inaugurated in 1960 as a new capital for a modern country, designed from the ground up by architects and city planners. Brasilia does not have a first division side, but has the second biggest stadium in the country nonetheless.
68,009
Weather summary status for Euro sides = perfect
Built 2012
Group Games
Switzerland v Ecuador June 15
Colombia v Ivory Coast June 19
Cameroon v Brazil June 23
Portugal v Ghana June 26
2nd Round
Winner E v R/U F June 30
QF
55 v 56 July 5
3rd place July 12
Estadio Mineirao
BELO HORIZONTE
The Estadio Mineario is home to first division sides Gremio and Atletico Mineario. Belo Horizonte is the bar capital of Brazil, with over 12,000 boozers.
62,547
Weather summary status for Euro sides = normal
Built 1965 (remodelled 2013)
Group games
Colombia v Greece June 14
Belgium v Algeria June 17
Argentina v Iran June 21
Costa Rica v England June 24
2nd Round
Winner A v R/U B June 28
Semi Finals
57 v 58 July 8
Arena Pantanal
CUIABA
Cuiaba is the exact midpoint of the South American continent, and is in the state of Matto Grosso, which is home to two of the world’s largest ecosystems; The Amazon Rainforest to the North and the Pantanal Rainforest to the South.
42,968
Weather summary status for Euro sides = perfect
Built 2014
Group Games
Chile v Australia June 13
Russia v South Korea June 17
Nigeria v Bosnia June 21
Japan v Colombia June 24
Arena da Baixada
CURITIBA
Curitiba is another “new” city, a model of urban planning that has been much copied. It has 26 city parks and city forests.
41,456
Weather summary status for Euro sides = normal
Built 1914 (Remodelled 2014)
Group Games
Iran v Nigeria June 16
Honduras v Ecuador June 20
Australia v Spain June 23
Algeria v Russia June 26
Estadio Castelao
FORTELEZA
Fortaleza is on the East Coast of Brazil and many people believe this is where the first Europeans landed on the continent.
64,846
Weather summary status for Euro sides = difficult
Built 1973 (Remodelled 2013)
Group Games
Uruguay v Costa Rica June 14
Brazil v Mexico June 17
Ghana v Germany June 21
Greece v Ivory Coast June 24
2nd Round
Winner B v R/U A June 29
QF
49 v 50 July 4
Arena Amazonia
MANAUS
Amazonas is Brazil’s largest state, and is bigger than France, Spain, Sweden and Greece combined. Manaus is the most Northerly venue of the World Cup. Fans should make sure they behave here, as since Manaus does not have a major soccer team, some have suggested the stadium could be turned into a prison after the World Cup.
42,374
Weather summary status for Euro sides = difficult
Built 2014
Group Games
Italy v England June 14
Cameroon v Croatia June 18
USA v Portugal June 22
Honduras v Switzerland June 25
Estadio Das Dunas
NATAL
42,086
Weather summary status for Euro sides = difficult
Built 2014
Group Games
Mexico v Cameroon June 13
Ghana v USA June 16
Japan v Greece June 19
Italy v Uruguay June 24
Estadio Beira Rio
PORTO ALEGRE
Estadio Beira Rio is the home of Internacional, and as the Southernmost venue, will be the coolest host city in terms of temperature.
48,849
Weather summary status for Euro sides = perfect
Built 1969 (Remodelled 2013)
Group Games
France v Honduras June 15
Australia v Netherlands June 18
South Korea v Algeria June 23
Nigeria v Argentina June 25
2nd Round
Winner G v R/U H June 30
Arena Pernambuco
RECIFE
Recife is famous for its beaches, but if you’re planning a dip be careful because it is also famous for its shark attacks.
44,248
Weather summary status for Euro sides = difficult
Built 2013
Group games
Ivory Coast v Japan June 14
Italy v Costa Rica June 20
Croatia v Mexico June 23
USA v Germany June 26
2nd Round
First D v R/U C June 29
Arena Fonta Nova
SALVADOR
Salvador was one of the main entry points for African slaves, and to this day has one of the highest numbers of African descendants anywhere outside of Africa. The Arena Fonta Nova is home to Bahia and Victoria football clubs.
48,747
Weather summary status for Euro sides = difficult
Built 1951 (Remodelled 2012)
Group Games
Spain v Netherlands June 13
Germany v Portugal June 16
Switzerland v France June 20
Bosnia v Iran June 25
2nd Round
Winner H R/U G July 1
QF
51 v 52 July 5
The World Cup takes place in Brazil’s winter but that does not mean that the conditions will necessarily be favourable for European teams. The biggest issue will be humidity in some areas of the country. It is a factor that can make a temperature of 30 degrees seem more unbearable than a dry heat of over 40 degrees, and if playing a high-intensity football match, it will have a significant bearing on a team's performance levels.
When Italy laboured to a 4-3 victory over Japan at the Confederations Cup in June, head coach Cesare Prandelli was quick to complain: "We struggled like crazy tonight. The humidity is something we have to deal with, as it really is difficult." (Football-Italia)
At the World Cup these complaints could be even louder, with the European nations in particular set to find conditions particularly tough. They will not be alone in suffering. For some of the East Asian, West African and South American sides familiarity with the conditions could be a great advantage. The place where humidity will be worst throughout the course of the tournament is Manaus, in Northwest Brazil, where levels will typically range between 57-99 percent for the time of year, per WeatherSpark.
Dew Point analysis, which gives a better indication of how conditions will feel on a personal level, as it relates to the evaporation of sweat from the skin, suggests conditions will vary from muggy to oppressive. The one saving grace, however, is that temperatures should not rise above low-to-mid 30s Celsius—a temperature most sides will be accustomed to.
The North and North-East of Brazil will all offer similarly difficult conditions, as Italy discovered at the Confederations Cup. Recife is described as being "muggy to very muggy", per WeatherSpark, while Fortaleza, Natal and Salvador will offer similar conditions.
The South East of the country should be a much more pleasant environment, with temperatures in Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, Curitiba and Belo Horizonte all set to be mid-20s for much of the tournament.
While it can get humid, the lower temperatures will help considerably, with dew point analysis suggesting that, for the most part, conditions will be comfortable for those taking part.
The places that sides most affected by humidity will be queuing up to play, however, are Brasilia, Porto Alegre and Cuiaba. The furthest west of the cities in the South of Brazil, Cuiaba will be hot but will also barely register in terms of humidity. Brasilia, which also remains fairly dry in winter, will be similarly refreshing.
However, it is Porto Alegre that will feel most at home to sides suffering in the sticky conditions of the North. The furthest South of all the cities to be used in the tournament, the average daily temperature for the summer months is just 19 degrees. With the dew point reading low as a result, even the area's mild humidity seldom become an issue. For Northern European sides, it is the city they will most hope to visit en-route to a potential final.
Summary of conditions of venues
“Difficult” venues for European sides (temperature around 28-33C and very humid)
Manaus
Recife
Fortaleza
Natal
Salvador
“Normal” venues ok for European sides (may be hot or humid but should avoid the horrible combination of both at once)
Rio de Janeiro
Sao Paolo
Belo Horizonte
Curitiba
“Perfect” venues for European sides (cool in temperature and/or no humidity)
Brasilia
Cuiaba
Porto Alegre
Estadio de Maracana
RIO DE JANEIRO
Rio was capital of Brazil from 1764 until 1960 when Brasilia became administrative capital. It will also be host to the 2016 Olympics.
Weather summary status for Euro sides = normal
76,804
Built =1950 (Remodelled 2013)
Group Games
Argentina v Bosnia June 16
Spain v Chile June 18
Belgium v Russia June22
Ecuador v France June 25
2nd Round
Winners C v R/U D June 28
QF
53 v 54 July 4
Final July 13
Arena de Sao Paolo
SAO PAOLO
Sao Paolo is the biggest city in Brazil and all South America with over 11 million inhabitants
65,807
Weather summary status for Euro sides = normal
Built =2014
Group Games
Brazil v Croatia June 12
Uruguay v England June 19
Netherlands v Chile June 23
South Korea v Belgium June 26
2nd Round
Winner F v R/U E July 1
QF
53 v 54 July 4
SF
59 v 60 July 9
Estadio Nacional
BRASILIA
Brasilia was inaugurated in 1960 as a new capital for a modern country, designed from the ground up by architects and city planners. Brasilia does not have a first division side, but has the second biggest stadium in the country nonetheless.
68,009
Weather summary status for Euro sides = perfect
Built 2012
Group Games
Switzerland v Ecuador June 15
Colombia v Ivory Coast June 19
Cameroon v Brazil June 23
Portugal v Ghana June 26
2nd Round
Winner E v R/U F June 30
QF
55 v 56 July 5
3rd place July 12
Estadio Mineirao
BELO HORIZONTE
The Estadio Mineario is home to first division sides Gremio and Atletico Mineario. Belo Horizonte is the bar capital of Brazil, with over 12,000 boozers.
62,547
Weather summary status for Euro sides = normal
Built 1965 (remodelled 2013)
Group games
Colombia v Greece June 14
Belgium v Algeria June 17
Argentina v Iran June 21
Costa Rica v England June 24
2nd Round
Winner A v R/U B June 28
Semi Finals
57 v 58 July 8
Arena Pantanal
CUIABA
Cuiaba is the exact midpoint of the South American continent, and is in the state of Matto Grosso, which is home to two of the world’s largest ecosystems; The Amazon Rainforest to the North and the Pantanal Rainforest to the South.
42,968
Weather summary status for Euro sides = perfect
Built 2014
Group Games
Chile v Australia June 13
Russia v South Korea June 17
Nigeria v Bosnia June 21
Japan v Colombia June 24
Arena da Baixada
CURITIBA
Curitiba is another “new” city, a model of urban planning that has been much copied. It has 26 city parks and city forests.
41,456
Weather summary status for Euro sides = normal
Built 1914 (Remodelled 2014)
Group Games
Iran v Nigeria June 16
Honduras v Ecuador June 20
Australia v Spain June 23
Algeria v Russia June 26
Estadio Castelao
FORTELEZA
Fortaleza is on the East Coast of Brazil and many people believe this is where the first Europeans landed on the continent.
64,846
Weather summary status for Euro sides = difficult
Built 1973 (Remodelled 2013)
Group Games
Uruguay v Costa Rica June 14
Brazil v Mexico June 17
Ghana v Germany June 21
Greece v Ivory Coast June 24
2nd Round
Winner B v R/U A June 29
QF
49 v 50 July 4
Arena Amazonia
MANAUS
Amazonas is Brazil’s largest state, and is bigger than France, Spain, Sweden and Greece combined. Manaus is the most Northerly venue of the World Cup. Fans should make sure they behave here, as since Manaus does not have a major soccer team, some have suggested the stadium could be turned into a prison after the World Cup.
42,374
Weather summary status for Euro sides = difficult
Built 2014
Group Games
Italy v England June 14
Cameroon v Croatia June 18
USA v Portugal June 22
Honduras v Switzerland June 25
Estadio Das Dunas
NATAL
42,086
Weather summary status for Euro sides = difficult
Built 2014
Group Games
Mexico v Cameroon June 13
Ghana v USA June 16
Japan v Greece June 19
Italy v Uruguay June 24
Estadio Beira Rio
PORTO ALEGRE
Estadio Beira Rio is the home of Internacional, and as the Southernmost venue, will be the coolest host city in terms of temperature.
48,849
Weather summary status for Euro sides = perfect
Built 1969 (Remodelled 2013)
Group Games
France v Honduras June 15
Australia v Netherlands June 18
South Korea v Algeria June 23
Nigeria v Argentina June 25
2nd Round
Winner G v R/U H June 30
Arena Pernambuco
RECIFE
Recife is famous for its beaches, but if you’re planning a dip be careful because it is also famous for its shark attacks.
44,248
Weather summary status for Euro sides = difficult
Built 2013
Group games
Ivory Coast v Japan June 14
Italy v Costa Rica June 20
Croatia v Mexico June 23
USA v Germany June 26
2nd Round
First D v R/U C June 29
Arena Fonta Nova
SALVADOR
Salvador was one of the main entry points for African slaves, and to this day has one of the highest numbers of African descendants anywhere outside of Africa. The Arena Fonta Nova is home to Bahia and Victoria football clubs.
48,747
Weather summary status for Euro sides = difficult
Built 1951 (Remodelled 2012)
Group Games
Spain v Netherlands June 13
Germany v Portugal June 16
Switzerland v France June 20
Bosnia v Iran June 25
2nd Round
Winner H R/U G July 1
QF
51 v 52 July 5
Group A (team guides from FIFA)
Brazil: Teresopolis
Best price 3/1
[b]FIFA key players
Striker Neymar is already being hailed as a man capable of playing a key role for the five-time world champions come Brazil 2014. Currently among the supporting cast in attack is the youngster’s former Santos team-mate Robinho, while Barcelona’s Dani Alves is a lung-bursting presence on the flank. Between the sticks, veteran goalkeeper Julio Cesar exudes confidence and security to the rest of the backline.
My key player
David Luiz
Coach: Luiz Felipe Scolari
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Sweden 1958, Chile 1962, Mexico 1970, USA 1994, Korea/Japan 2002 (Winners), FIFA U-20 World Cup Mexico 1983, USSR 1985, Australia 1993, UAE 2003 (Winners), FIFA U-17 World Cup Egypt 1997, New Zealand 1999, Finland 2003 (Winners), FIFA Confederations Cup Saudi Arabia 1997, Germany 2005, South Africa 2009 (Winners)[/yellow][/b]
[colour=red]Croatia: Mata de Sao Joao
Best price 200/1
[b]FIFA key players
Experienced captain Darijo Srna is a born leader, and playmakers Luka Modric and Niko Kranjcar can always be relied upon for moments of inspiration. Kovac presides over a wealth of international-class attacking talent including Eduardo, Ivica Olic, Nikita Jelavic and Mario Mandzukic.
My key player
Luca Modric
Coach: Niko Kovac
Best performance in a FIFA competition: 1998 FIFA World Cup France (Third place)[/b]
[color=dark green]Mexico: Santos
Best price = 150/1
[b]FIFA key players
After an agonising qualifying competition full of setbacks, coaching changes and tactical reshuffles, predicting how the Mexicans will fare at Brazil 2014 is no easy task. While El Trican count on a band of high-profile overseas-based players, spearheaded by Javier Chicharito Hernandez, Andres Guardado and Giovani dos Santos, the last few months have shown that the latest wave of young players also have much to offer, chief among them their London 2012 hero Oribe Peralta, Raul Jimenez and Carlos Pena. Now that they have safely secured their ticket to Brazil, the Mexicans have time to find some stability and build for the future.
My key players
Oribe Peralta
Current coach: Miguel Herrera
Best performance in a FIFA competition: FIFA Confederations Cup Mexico 1999 (winners), FIFA U-17 World Cup Peru 2005 (winners)[/color][/b]
Cameroon: Vitoria
Best price = 1500/1
FIFA key players
My key player
Stephane Mbia
Samuel Eto'o remains the world-class threat up front, although the charismatic figure, who still serves as captain, has gone in and out of the team. But even without the Chelsea veteran, the side if loaded with experience and high-level talent. Nicolas N'Koulou, Benoit Assou-Ekotto and Aurelien Chedjou remain vital at the back, while the midfield is even more loaded with Alex Song, Jean Makoun and Stephane Mbia at the heart of the team.
Coach: Volker Finke
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Italy 1990 (Quarter-finals), Men’s Olympic Football Tournament Sydney 2000 (Winners)
Group A summary
Brazil are hosts, have not qualified and seemingly lack the star quality of previous generations. There have also been questions about the organisation of and support for this tournament. However, they have been handed a very friendly group, and they should take at least 7 points. They showed when the won the Confederations Cup last year that they have several players that leave their moderate club form well behind when they pull on the yellow shirts. I suspect that, like during the London Olympics, public support will grow and grow for this tournament like a rolling stone as it progresses and I think the tournament will be a roaring success. In this climate, anyone who wants to win this World Cup is going to have to perform the feat of beating Brazil on their own patch. I don't know who can do that and Brazil are going to go very close if not all the way. Croatia are seen as the Brazil of Europe because of their technical ability, love of fast, possession football and flair players. I do feel that they aren't as strong as they have been in recent years, and although it might be best playing Brazil first up, I can see them having a poor World Cup, especially as they have to play Mexico and Cameroon in unfavourable hot, humid conditions in Recife and Manaus respectively. Mexico were extraordinarily fortunate to qualify for the finals, and although many sides have gone on to improve on the main stage after sneaking through I suspect Mexico may not be one of them. Cameroon are the outsiders to progress from Group A but I think the odds may be underestimating the Indominable Lions. They open up with a winnable match against Mexico then play Croatia in the hot and humid conditions of Manaus. They play Brazil last, and that match might be to decide the group winners.
Suggested Bets
Cameroon to qualify 5/1 (or Brazil/Cameroon straight forecast 7/1)
Croatia to finish bottom 4/1
Brazil: Teresopolis
Best price 3/1
[b]FIFA key players
Striker Neymar is already being hailed as a man capable of playing a key role for the five-time world champions come Brazil 2014. Currently among the supporting cast in attack is the youngster’s former Santos team-mate Robinho, while Barcelona’s Dani Alves is a lung-bursting presence on the flank. Between the sticks, veteran goalkeeper Julio Cesar exudes confidence and security to the rest of the backline.
My key player
David Luiz
Coach: Luiz Felipe Scolari
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Sweden 1958, Chile 1962, Mexico 1970, USA 1994, Korea/Japan 2002 (Winners), FIFA U-20 World Cup Mexico 1983, USSR 1985, Australia 1993, UAE 2003 (Winners), FIFA U-17 World Cup Egypt 1997, New Zealand 1999, Finland 2003 (Winners), FIFA Confederations Cup Saudi Arabia 1997, Germany 2005, South Africa 2009 (Winners)[/yellow][/b]
[colour=red]Croatia: Mata de Sao Joao
Best price 200/1
[b]FIFA key players
Experienced captain Darijo Srna is a born leader, and playmakers Luka Modric and Niko Kranjcar can always be relied upon for moments of inspiration. Kovac presides over a wealth of international-class attacking talent including Eduardo, Ivica Olic, Nikita Jelavic and Mario Mandzukic.
My key player
Luca Modric
Coach: Niko Kovac
Best performance in a FIFA competition: 1998 FIFA World Cup France (Third place)[/b]
[color=dark green]Mexico: Santos
Best price = 150/1
[b]FIFA key players
After an agonising qualifying competition full of setbacks, coaching changes and tactical reshuffles, predicting how the Mexicans will fare at Brazil 2014 is no easy task. While El Trican count on a band of high-profile overseas-based players, spearheaded by Javier Chicharito Hernandez, Andres Guardado and Giovani dos Santos, the last few months have shown that the latest wave of young players also have much to offer, chief among them their London 2012 hero Oribe Peralta, Raul Jimenez and Carlos Pena. Now that they have safely secured their ticket to Brazil, the Mexicans have time to find some stability and build for the future.
My key players
Oribe Peralta
Current coach: Miguel Herrera
Best performance in a FIFA competition: FIFA Confederations Cup Mexico 1999 (winners), FIFA U-17 World Cup Peru 2005 (winners)[/color][/b]
Cameroon: Vitoria
Best price = 1500/1
FIFA key players
My key player
Stephane Mbia
Samuel Eto'o remains the world-class threat up front, although the charismatic figure, who still serves as captain, has gone in and out of the team. But even without the Chelsea veteran, the side if loaded with experience and high-level talent. Nicolas N'Koulou, Benoit Assou-Ekotto and Aurelien Chedjou remain vital at the back, while the midfield is even more loaded with Alex Song, Jean Makoun and Stephane Mbia at the heart of the team.
Coach: Volker Finke
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Italy 1990 (Quarter-finals), Men’s Olympic Football Tournament Sydney 2000 (Winners)
Group A summary
Brazil are hosts, have not qualified and seemingly lack the star quality of previous generations. There have also been questions about the organisation of and support for this tournament. However, they have been handed a very friendly group, and they should take at least 7 points. They showed when the won the Confederations Cup last year that they have several players that leave their moderate club form well behind when they pull on the yellow shirts. I suspect that, like during the London Olympics, public support will grow and grow for this tournament like a rolling stone as it progresses and I think the tournament will be a roaring success. In this climate, anyone who wants to win this World Cup is going to have to perform the feat of beating Brazil on their own patch. I don't know who can do that and Brazil are going to go very close if not all the way. Croatia are seen as the Brazil of Europe because of their technical ability, love of fast, possession football and flair players. I do feel that they aren't as strong as they have been in recent years, and although it might be best playing Brazil first up, I can see them having a poor World Cup, especially as they have to play Mexico and Cameroon in unfavourable hot, humid conditions in Recife and Manaus respectively. Mexico were extraordinarily fortunate to qualify for the finals, and although many sides have gone on to improve on the main stage after sneaking through I suspect Mexico may not be one of them. Cameroon are the outsiders to progress from Group A but I think the odds may be underestimating the Indominable Lions. They open up with a winnable match against Mexico then play Croatia in the hot and humid conditions of Manaus. They play Brazil last, and that match might be to decide the group winners.
Suggested Bets
Cameroon to qualify 5/1 (or Brazil/Cameroon straight forecast 7/1)
Croatia to finish bottom 4/1
Group A (team guides from FIFA)
BRAZIL: Teresopolis
Best price 3/1
[b]FIFA key players
Striker Neymar is already being hailed as a man capable of playing a key role for the five-time world champions come Brazil 2014. Currently among the supporting cast in attack is the youngster’s former Santos team-mate Robinho, while Barcelona’s Dani Alves is a lung-bursting presence on the flank. Between the sticks, veteran goalkeeper Julio Cesar exudes confidence and security to the rest of the backline.
My key player
David Luiz
Coach: Luiz Felipe Scolari
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Sweden 1958, Chile 1962, Mexico 1970, USA 1994, Korea/Japan 2002 (Winners), FIFA U-20 World Cup Mexico 1983, USSR 1985, Australia 1993, UAE 2003 (Winners), FIFA U-17 World Cup Egypt 1997, New Zealand 1999, Finland 2003 (Winners), FIFA Confederations Cup Saudi Arabia 1997, Germany 2005, South Africa 2009 (Winners)[/b]
CROATIA: Mata de Sao Joao
Best price 200/1
FIFA key players
Experienced captain Darijo Srna is a born leader, and playmakers Luka Modric and Niko Kranjcar can always be relied upon for moments of inspiration. Kovac presides over a wealth of international-class attacking talent including Eduardo, Ivica Olic, Nikita Jelavic and Mario Mandzukic.
My key player
Luca Modric
Coach: Niko Kovac
Best performance in a FIFA competition: 1998 FIFA World Cup France (Third place)
MEXICO: Santos
Best price = 150/1
[b]FIFA key players
After an agonising qualifying competition full of setbacks, coaching changes and tactical reshuffles, predicting how the Mexicans will fare at Brazil 2014 is no easy task. While El Trican count on a band of high-profile overseas-based players, spearheaded by Javier Chicharito Hernandez, Andres Guardado and Giovani dos Santos, the last few months have shown that the latest wave of young players also have much to offer, chief among them their London 2012 hero Oribe Peralta, Raul Jimenez and Carlos Pena. Now that they have safely secured their ticket to Brazil, the Mexicans have time to find some stability and build for the future.
My key players
Oribe Peralta
Current coach: Miguel Herrera
Best performance in a FIFA competition: FIFA Confederations Cup Mexico 1999 (winners), FIFA U-17 World Cup Peru 2005 (winners)[/b]
CAMEROON: Vitoria
Best price = 1500/1
FIFA key players
My key player
Stephane Mbia
Samuel Eto'o remains the world-class threat up front, although the charismatic figure, who still serves as captain, has gone in and out of the team. But even without the Chelsea veteran, the side if loaded with experience and high-level talent. Nicolas N'Koulou, Benoit Assou-Ekotto and Aurelien Chedjou remain vital at the back, while the midfield is even more loaded with Alex Song, Jean Makoun and Stephane Mbia at the heart of the team.
Coach: Volker Finke
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Italy 1990 (Quarter-finals), Men’s Olympic Football Tournament Sydney 2000 (Winners)
Group A summary
Brazil are hosts, have not qualified and seemingly lack the star quality of previous generations. There have also been questions about the organisation of and support for this tournament. However, they have been handed a very friendly group, and they should take at least 7 points. They showed when the won the Confederations Cup last year that they have several players that leave their moderate club form well behind when they pull on the yellow shirts. I suspect that, like during the London Olympics, public support will grow and grow for this tournament like a rolling stone as it progresses and I think the tournament will be a roaring success. In this climate, anyone who wants to win this World Cup is going to have to perform the feat of beating Brazil on their own patch. I don't know who can do that and Brazil are going to go very close if not all the way. Croatia are seen as the Brazil of Europe because of their technical ability, love of fast, possession football and flair players. I do feel that they aren't as strong as they have been in recent years, and although it might be best playing Brazil first up, I can see them having a poor World Cup, especially as they have to play Mexico and Cameroon in unfavourable hot, humid conditions in Recife and Manaus respectively. Mexico were extraordinarily fortunate to qualify for the finals, and although many sides have gone on to improve on the main stage after sneaking through I suspect Mexico may not be one of them. Cameroon are the outsiders to progress from Group A but I think the odds may be underestimating the Indominable Lions. They open up with a winnable match against Mexico then play Croatia in the hot and humid conditions of Manaus. They play Brazil last, and that match might be to decide the group winners.
Suggested Bets
Cameroon to qualify 5/1 (or Brazil/Cameroon straight forecast 7/1)
Croatia to finish bottom 4/1
BRAZIL: Teresopolis
Best price 3/1
[b]FIFA key players
Striker Neymar is already being hailed as a man capable of playing a key role for the five-time world champions come Brazil 2014. Currently among the supporting cast in attack is the youngster’s former Santos team-mate Robinho, while Barcelona’s Dani Alves is a lung-bursting presence on the flank. Between the sticks, veteran goalkeeper Julio Cesar exudes confidence and security to the rest of the backline.
My key player
David Luiz
Coach: Luiz Felipe Scolari
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Sweden 1958, Chile 1962, Mexico 1970, USA 1994, Korea/Japan 2002 (Winners), FIFA U-20 World Cup Mexico 1983, USSR 1985, Australia 1993, UAE 2003 (Winners), FIFA U-17 World Cup Egypt 1997, New Zealand 1999, Finland 2003 (Winners), FIFA Confederations Cup Saudi Arabia 1997, Germany 2005, South Africa 2009 (Winners)[/b]
CROATIA: Mata de Sao Joao
Best price 200/1
FIFA key players
Experienced captain Darijo Srna is a born leader, and playmakers Luka Modric and Niko Kranjcar can always be relied upon for moments of inspiration. Kovac presides over a wealth of international-class attacking talent including Eduardo, Ivica Olic, Nikita Jelavic and Mario Mandzukic.
My key player
Luca Modric
Coach: Niko Kovac
Best performance in a FIFA competition: 1998 FIFA World Cup France (Third place)
MEXICO: Santos
Best price = 150/1
[b]FIFA key players
After an agonising qualifying competition full of setbacks, coaching changes and tactical reshuffles, predicting how the Mexicans will fare at Brazil 2014 is no easy task. While El Trican count on a band of high-profile overseas-based players, spearheaded by Javier Chicharito Hernandez, Andres Guardado and Giovani dos Santos, the last few months have shown that the latest wave of young players also have much to offer, chief among them their London 2012 hero Oribe Peralta, Raul Jimenez and Carlos Pena. Now that they have safely secured their ticket to Brazil, the Mexicans have time to find some stability and build for the future.
My key players
Oribe Peralta
Current coach: Miguel Herrera
Best performance in a FIFA competition: FIFA Confederations Cup Mexico 1999 (winners), FIFA U-17 World Cup Peru 2005 (winners)[/b]
CAMEROON: Vitoria
Best price = 1500/1
FIFA key players
My key player
Stephane Mbia
Samuel Eto'o remains the world-class threat up front, although the charismatic figure, who still serves as captain, has gone in and out of the team. But even without the Chelsea veteran, the side if loaded with experience and high-level talent. Nicolas N'Koulou, Benoit Assou-Ekotto and Aurelien Chedjou remain vital at the back, while the midfield is even more loaded with Alex Song, Jean Makoun and Stephane Mbia at the heart of the team.
Coach: Volker Finke
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Italy 1990 (Quarter-finals), Men’s Olympic Football Tournament Sydney 2000 (Winners)
Group A summary
Brazil are hosts, have not qualified and seemingly lack the star quality of previous generations. There have also been questions about the organisation of and support for this tournament. However, they have been handed a very friendly group, and they should take at least 7 points. They showed when the won the Confederations Cup last year that they have several players that leave their moderate club form well behind when they pull on the yellow shirts. I suspect that, like during the London Olympics, public support will grow and grow for this tournament like a rolling stone as it progresses and I think the tournament will be a roaring success. In this climate, anyone who wants to win this World Cup is going to have to perform the feat of beating Brazil on their own patch. I don't know who can do that and Brazil are going to go very close if not all the way. Croatia are seen as the Brazil of Europe because of their technical ability, love of fast, possession football and flair players. I do feel that they aren't as strong as they have been in recent years, and although it might be best playing Brazil first up, I can see them having a poor World Cup, especially as they have to play Mexico and Cameroon in unfavourable hot, humid conditions in Recife and Manaus respectively. Mexico were extraordinarily fortunate to qualify for the finals, and although many sides have gone on to improve on the main stage after sneaking through I suspect Mexico may not be one of them. Cameroon are the outsiders to progress from Group A but I think the odds may be underestimating the Indominable Lions. They open up with a winnable match against Mexico then play Croatia in the hot and humid conditions of Manaus. They play Brazil last, and that match might be to decide the group winners.
Suggested Bets
Cameroon to qualify 5/1 (or Brazil/Cameroon straight forecast 7/1)
Croatia to finish bottom 4/1
Group A (team guides from FIFA)
BRAZIL: Teresopolis
Best price 3/1
FIFA key players
Striker Neymar is already being hailed as a man capable of playing a key role for the five-time world champions come Brazil 2014. Currently among the supporting cast in attack is the youngster’s former Santos team-mate Robinho, while Barcelona’s Dani Alves is a lung-bursting presence on the flank. Between the sticks, veteran goalkeeper Julio Cesar exudes confidence and security to the rest of the backline.
My key player: David Luiz
Coach: Luiz Felipe Scolari
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Sweden 1958, Chile 1962, Mexico 1970, USA 1994, Korea/Japan 2002 (Winners), FIFA U-20 World Cup Mexico 1983, USSR 1985, Australia 1993, UAE 2003 (Winners), FIFA U-17 World Cup Egypt 1997, New Zealand 1999, Finland 2003 (Winners), FIFA Confederations Cup Saudi Arabia 1997, Germany 2005, South Africa 2009 (Winners)
CROATIA: Mata de Sao Joao
Best price 200/1
FIFA key players
Experienced captain Darijo Srna is a born leader, and playmakers Luka Modric and Niko Kranjcar can always be relied upon for moments of inspiration. Kovac presides over a wealth of international-class attacking talent including Eduardo, Ivica Olic, Nikita Jelavic and Mario Mandzukic.
My key player: Luca Modric
Coach: Niko Kovac
Best performance in a FIFA competition: 1998 FIFA World Cup France (Third place)
MEXICO: Santos
Best price = 150/1
FIFA key players
After an agonising qualifying competition full of setbacks, coaching changes and tactical reshuffles, predicting how the Mexicans will fare at Brazil 2014 is no easy task. While El Trican count on a band of high-profile overseas-based players, spearheaded by Javier Chicharito Hernandez, Andres Guardado and Giovani dos Santos, the last few months have shown that the latest wave of young players also have much to offer, chief among them their London 2012 hero Oribe Peralta, Raul Jimenez and Carlos Pena. Now that they have safely secured their ticket to Brazil, the Mexicans have time to find some stability and build for the future.
My key player: Oribe Peralta
Current coach: Miguel Herrera
Best performance in a FIFA competition: FIFA Confederations Cup Mexico 1999 (winners), FIFA U-17 World Cup Peru 2005 (winners)
CAMEROON: Vitoria
Best price = 1500/1
FIFA key players
Samuel Eto'o remains the world-class threat up front, although the charismatic figure, who still serves as captain, has gone in and out of the team. But even without the Chelsea veteran, the side if loaded with experience and high-level talent. Nicolas N'Koulou, Benoit Assou-Ekotto and Aurelien Chedjou remain vital at the back, while the midfield is even more loaded with Alex Song, Jean Makoun and Stephane Mbia at the heart of the team.
My key player: Stephane Mbia
Coach: Volker Finke
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Italy 1990 (Quarter-finals), Men’s Olympic Football Tournament Sydney 2000 (Winners)
Group A summary
Brazil are hosts, have not qualified and seemingly lack the star quality of previous generations. There have also been questions about the organisation of and support for this tournament. However, they have been handed a very friendly group, and they should take at least 7 points. They showed when the won the Confederations Cup last year that they have several players that leave their moderate club form well behind when they pull on the yellow shirts. I suspect that, like during the London Olympics, public support will grow and grow for this tournament like a rolling stone as it progresses and I think the tournament will be a roaring success. In this climate, anyone who wants to win this World Cup is going to have to perform the feat of beating Brazil on their own patch. I don't know who can do that and Brazil are going to go very close if not all the way. Croatia are seen as the Brazil of Europe because of their technical ability, love of fast, possession football and flair players. I do feel that they aren't as strong as they have been in recent years, and although it might be best playing Brazil first up, I can see them having a poor World Cup, especially as they have to play Mexico and Cameroon in unfavourable hot, humid conditions in Recife and Manaus respectively. Mexico were extraordinarily fortunate to qualify for the finals, and although many sides have gone on to improve on the main stage after sneaking through I suspect Mexico may not be one of them. Cameroon are the outsiders to progress from Group A but I think the odds may be underestimating the Indominable Lions. They open up with a winnable match against Mexico then play Croatia in the hot and humid conditions of Manaus. They play Brazil last, and that match might be to decide the group winners.
Suggested Bets
Cameroon to qualify 5/1 (or Brazil/Cameroon straight forecast 7/1)
Croatia to finish bottom 4/1
BRAZIL: Teresopolis
Best price 3/1
FIFA key players
Striker Neymar is already being hailed as a man capable of playing a key role for the five-time world champions come Brazil 2014. Currently among the supporting cast in attack is the youngster’s former Santos team-mate Robinho, while Barcelona’s Dani Alves is a lung-bursting presence on the flank. Between the sticks, veteran goalkeeper Julio Cesar exudes confidence and security to the rest of the backline.
My key player: David Luiz
Coach: Luiz Felipe Scolari
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Sweden 1958, Chile 1962, Mexico 1970, USA 1994, Korea/Japan 2002 (Winners), FIFA U-20 World Cup Mexico 1983, USSR 1985, Australia 1993, UAE 2003 (Winners), FIFA U-17 World Cup Egypt 1997, New Zealand 1999, Finland 2003 (Winners), FIFA Confederations Cup Saudi Arabia 1997, Germany 2005, South Africa 2009 (Winners)
CROATIA: Mata de Sao Joao
Best price 200/1
FIFA key players
Experienced captain Darijo Srna is a born leader, and playmakers Luka Modric and Niko Kranjcar can always be relied upon for moments of inspiration. Kovac presides over a wealth of international-class attacking talent including Eduardo, Ivica Olic, Nikita Jelavic and Mario Mandzukic.
My key player: Luca Modric
Coach: Niko Kovac
Best performance in a FIFA competition: 1998 FIFA World Cup France (Third place)
MEXICO: Santos
Best price = 150/1
FIFA key players
After an agonising qualifying competition full of setbacks, coaching changes and tactical reshuffles, predicting how the Mexicans will fare at Brazil 2014 is no easy task. While El Trican count on a band of high-profile overseas-based players, spearheaded by Javier Chicharito Hernandez, Andres Guardado and Giovani dos Santos, the last few months have shown that the latest wave of young players also have much to offer, chief among them their London 2012 hero Oribe Peralta, Raul Jimenez and Carlos Pena. Now that they have safely secured their ticket to Brazil, the Mexicans have time to find some stability and build for the future.
My key player: Oribe Peralta
Current coach: Miguel Herrera
Best performance in a FIFA competition: FIFA Confederations Cup Mexico 1999 (winners), FIFA U-17 World Cup Peru 2005 (winners)
CAMEROON: Vitoria
Best price = 1500/1
FIFA key players
Samuel Eto'o remains the world-class threat up front, although the charismatic figure, who still serves as captain, has gone in and out of the team. But even without the Chelsea veteran, the side if loaded with experience and high-level talent. Nicolas N'Koulou, Benoit Assou-Ekotto and Aurelien Chedjou remain vital at the back, while the midfield is even more loaded with Alex Song, Jean Makoun and Stephane Mbia at the heart of the team.
My key player: Stephane Mbia
Coach: Volker Finke
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Italy 1990 (Quarter-finals), Men’s Olympic Football Tournament Sydney 2000 (Winners)
Group A summary
Brazil are hosts, have not qualified and seemingly lack the star quality of previous generations. There have also been questions about the organisation of and support for this tournament. However, they have been handed a very friendly group, and they should take at least 7 points. They showed when the won the Confederations Cup last year that they have several players that leave their moderate club form well behind when they pull on the yellow shirts. I suspect that, like during the London Olympics, public support will grow and grow for this tournament like a rolling stone as it progresses and I think the tournament will be a roaring success. In this climate, anyone who wants to win this World Cup is going to have to perform the feat of beating Brazil on their own patch. I don't know who can do that and Brazil are going to go very close if not all the way. Croatia are seen as the Brazil of Europe because of their technical ability, love of fast, possession football and flair players. I do feel that they aren't as strong as they have been in recent years, and although it might be best playing Brazil first up, I can see them having a poor World Cup, especially as they have to play Mexico and Cameroon in unfavourable hot, humid conditions in Recife and Manaus respectively. Mexico were extraordinarily fortunate to qualify for the finals, and although many sides have gone on to improve on the main stage after sneaking through I suspect Mexico may not be one of them. Cameroon are the outsiders to progress from Group A but I think the odds may be underestimating the Indominable Lions. They open up with a winnable match against Mexico then play Croatia in the hot and humid conditions of Manaus. They play Brazil last, and that match might be to decide the group winners.
Suggested Bets
Cameroon to qualify 5/1 (or Brazil/Cameroon straight forecast 7/1)
Croatia to finish bottom 4/1
Group B (team guides from FIFA)
Spain: Curitiba
Best price = 7/1
FIFA key players
Though there is no doubt that Spain’s embarrassment of midfield riches, featuring the likes of Xavi, Andres Iniesta and Xabi Alonso, has been integral to their major trophy triumphs, La Selección are strong across the board.
The men in red have a phalanx of very reliable keepers to call on, headed by Iker Casillas, while Sergio Ramos and Gerard Pique have consolidated their positions as the leaders of a defence in which left-back Jordi Alba has gone from strength to strength. Ramos and Alba are also a threat in the opposing box, and in recent times have made goalscoring contributions that have been almost as decisive as those of the front men.
With both David Villa and Fernando Torres struggling to find their touch, Pedro has distinguished himself as an attacking spearhead, ably supported by Cesc Fabregas, while Alvaro Negredo has begun to stake a compelling claim of his own for the striking role.
My key player:Diego Costa
Coach: Vicente del Bosque
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup South Africa 2010 (Winners), FIFA U-20 World Cup Nigeria 1999 (Winners), Men’s Olympic Football Tournament Barcelona 1992 (Winners)
Netherlands: Rio de Janeiro
Best price = 33/1
FIFA key players
Robin van Persie's blossoming into one of the finest strikers in the world has been a huge boon to the Dutch, with the Manchester United marksman topping the goal-scoring charts with 11 goals. He was able assisted in that department though by the likes of Jermaine Lens - who has progressed into a key part of the Oranje outfit - and Rafael van der Vaart. Arjen Robben continues to be a menace on the wing, while formerly promising youngsters such as Kevin Strootman and Daryl Janmaat are now key components of the side.
My key player: Arjen Robben
Coach: Louis Van Gaal
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Germany 1974, Argentina 1978, South Africa 2010 (Runners-up), FIFA Futsal World Cup Netherlands 1989 (Runners-up), Men’s Olympic Football Tournament London 1908, Stockholm 1912, Antwerp 1920 (Third place), FIFA U-17 World Cup Peru 2005 (Third place)
Chile: Belo Horizonte
Best price = 50/1
FIFA key players
Forwards Alexis Sanchez and Eduardo Vargas, as well as attacking midfielders Matias Fernandez and Arturo Vidal, are the leading men in a squad packed with talent and boasting viable alternatives in each position. Nor must we forget experienced performers such as Claudio Bravo, Gary Medel and Jorge Valdivia, or exciting rising stars like Jean Beausejour and Marcelo Diaz.
My key player:Arturo Vidal
Coach: Jorge Sampaoli
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Chile 1962 (Third place), FIFA U-17 World Cup Japan 1993 (Third place), FIFA U-20 World Cup Canada 2007 (Third place), Men’s Olympic Football Tournament Sydney 2000 (Third place)
Australia, Vitoria
Best price = 1500/1
FIFA key players
Tim Cahill remains the team’s undoubted star and talisman with a stunning goal ratio from midfield and equally remarkable heading ability despite his modest stature. Long-serving skipper and central defender Lucas Neill remains a bedrock of the team and has never let his country down regardless of domestic form. A two-goal showing at South Africa 2010 has seen Brett Holman’s profile and importance to the team take a sharp upward trajectory with the midfielder displaying versatility and an impressive short passing game.
My key player: Brett Holman
Coach: Ange Postecoglou
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Germany 2006 (Round of 16), FIFA U-17 World Cup New Zealand 1999 (Runners-up)
Spain are very obviously favourites for this group. They only have one game in hot and humid conditions, and they'll probably pleased that it's against the other European side in the group Holland in Salvador. I don't feel that Spain are the same side that won the World Cup and European Championship in their last two tournaments though, and I'm keen to oppose them overall. They still have scores of excellent players, but their brilliance came from the midfield of Xavi and Iniesta. When those two were at their peak no-one could get the ball off them. Spain will try and play the same way, but without these two in decline it will be hard. They also had two of the best strikers in the world in Villa and Torres but even if Torres makes the squad he doesn't seem to be the same player and it remains to be seen if Costa or Negredo can fill the void. I would expect Spain to win this group but if they do they may struggle in their 2nd Round game and Quarter final in the sultry conditions of Forteleza then Salvador. Holland have plenty of World Cup pedigree but I wonder whether this current crop is as good as previous generations. Van Persie and Robben will lead them but I don't know if they can beat Spain in hot conditions and I suspect they may be the ones to miss out in this tough group. Chile are said to be the team Brazil fear most. It's easy to see why, their style and formation is unique and they have of very talented players like Sanchez and Vidal. They have to beat the Socceroos first, but if they do they might be able to get through this group with two draws against Spain and Holland. Australia are rank outsiders in this group and if they avoid three defeats they should get an open-top bus ride on arrival back down under, which will inevitably and unfortunately be immediately after the groups.
Recommended bets
Spain/Chile dual forecast 21/10
Spain: Curitiba
Best price = 7/1
FIFA key players
Though there is no doubt that Spain’s embarrassment of midfield riches, featuring the likes of Xavi, Andres Iniesta and Xabi Alonso, has been integral to their major trophy triumphs, La Selección are strong across the board.
The men in red have a phalanx of very reliable keepers to call on, headed by Iker Casillas, while Sergio Ramos and Gerard Pique have consolidated their positions as the leaders of a defence in which left-back Jordi Alba has gone from strength to strength. Ramos and Alba are also a threat in the opposing box, and in recent times have made goalscoring contributions that have been almost as decisive as those of the front men.
With both David Villa and Fernando Torres struggling to find their touch, Pedro has distinguished himself as an attacking spearhead, ably supported by Cesc Fabregas, while Alvaro Negredo has begun to stake a compelling claim of his own for the striking role.
My key player:Diego Costa
Coach: Vicente del Bosque
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup South Africa 2010 (Winners), FIFA U-20 World Cup Nigeria 1999 (Winners), Men’s Olympic Football Tournament Barcelona 1992 (Winners)
Netherlands: Rio de Janeiro
Best price = 33/1
FIFA key players
Robin van Persie's blossoming into one of the finest strikers in the world has been a huge boon to the Dutch, with the Manchester United marksman topping the goal-scoring charts with 11 goals. He was able assisted in that department though by the likes of Jermaine Lens - who has progressed into a key part of the Oranje outfit - and Rafael van der Vaart. Arjen Robben continues to be a menace on the wing, while formerly promising youngsters such as Kevin Strootman and Daryl Janmaat are now key components of the side.
My key player: Arjen Robben
Coach: Louis Van Gaal
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Germany 1974, Argentina 1978, South Africa 2010 (Runners-up), FIFA Futsal World Cup Netherlands 1989 (Runners-up), Men’s Olympic Football Tournament London 1908, Stockholm 1912, Antwerp 1920 (Third place), FIFA U-17 World Cup Peru 2005 (Third place)
Chile: Belo Horizonte
Best price = 50/1
FIFA key players
Forwards Alexis Sanchez and Eduardo Vargas, as well as attacking midfielders Matias Fernandez and Arturo Vidal, are the leading men in a squad packed with talent and boasting viable alternatives in each position. Nor must we forget experienced performers such as Claudio Bravo, Gary Medel and Jorge Valdivia, or exciting rising stars like Jean Beausejour and Marcelo Diaz.
My key player:Arturo Vidal
Coach: Jorge Sampaoli
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Chile 1962 (Third place), FIFA U-17 World Cup Japan 1993 (Third place), FIFA U-20 World Cup Canada 2007 (Third place), Men’s Olympic Football Tournament Sydney 2000 (Third place)
Australia, Vitoria
Best price = 1500/1
FIFA key players
Tim Cahill remains the team’s undoubted star and talisman with a stunning goal ratio from midfield and equally remarkable heading ability despite his modest stature. Long-serving skipper and central defender Lucas Neill remains a bedrock of the team and has never let his country down regardless of domestic form. A two-goal showing at South Africa 2010 has seen Brett Holman’s profile and importance to the team take a sharp upward trajectory with the midfielder displaying versatility and an impressive short passing game.
My key player: Brett Holman
Coach: Ange Postecoglou
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Germany 2006 (Round of 16), FIFA U-17 World Cup New Zealand 1999 (Runners-up)
Spain are very obviously favourites for this group. They only have one game in hot and humid conditions, and they'll probably pleased that it's against the other European side in the group Holland in Salvador. I don't feel that Spain are the same side that won the World Cup and European Championship in their last two tournaments though, and I'm keen to oppose them overall. They still have scores of excellent players, but their brilliance came from the midfield of Xavi and Iniesta. When those two were at their peak no-one could get the ball off them. Spain will try and play the same way, but without these two in decline it will be hard. They also had two of the best strikers in the world in Villa and Torres but even if Torres makes the squad he doesn't seem to be the same player and it remains to be seen if Costa or Negredo can fill the void. I would expect Spain to win this group but if they do they may struggle in their 2nd Round game and Quarter final in the sultry conditions of Forteleza then Salvador. Holland have plenty of World Cup pedigree but I wonder whether this current crop is as good as previous generations. Van Persie and Robben will lead them but I don't know if they can beat Spain in hot conditions and I suspect they may be the ones to miss out in this tough group. Chile are said to be the team Brazil fear most. It's easy to see why, their style and formation is unique and they have of very talented players like Sanchez and Vidal. They have to beat the Socceroos first, but if they do they might be able to get through this group with two draws against Spain and Holland. Australia are rank outsiders in this group and if they avoid three defeats they should get an open-top bus ride on arrival back down under, which will inevitably and unfortunately be immediately after the groups.
Recommended bets
Spain/Chile dual forecast 21/10
Group B (team guides from FIFA)
Spain: Curitiba
Best price = 7/1
FIFA key players
Though there is no doubt that Spain’s embarrassment of midfield riches, featuring the likes of Xavi, Andres Iniesta and Xabi Alonso, has been integral to their major trophy triumphs, La Selección are strong across the board.
The men in red have a phalanx of very reliable keepers to call on, headed by Iker Casillas, while Sergio Ramos and Gerard Pique have consolidated their positions as the leaders of a defence in which left-back Jordi Alba has gone from strength to strength. Ramos and Alba are also a threat in the opposing box, and in recent times have made goalscoring contributions that have been almost as decisive as those of the front men.
With both David Villa and Fernando Torres struggling to find their touch, Pedro has distinguished himself as an attacking spearhead, ably supported by Cesc Fabregas, while Alvaro Negredo has begun to stake a compelling claim of his own for the striking role.
My key player:Diego Costa
Coach: Vicente del Bosque
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup South Africa 2010 (Winners), FIFA U-20 World Cup Nigeria 1999 (Winners), Men’s Olympic Football Tournament Barcelona 1992 (Winners)
Netherlands: Rio de Janeiro
Best price = 33/1
FIFA key players
Robin van Persie's blossoming into one of the finest strikers in the world has been a huge boon to the Dutch, with the Manchester United marksman topping the goal-scoring charts with 11 goals. He was able assisted in that department though by the likes of Jermaine Lens - who has progressed into a key part of the Oranje outfit - and Rafael van der Vaart. Arjen Robben continues to be a menace on the wing, while formerly promising youngsters such as Kevin Strootman and Daryl Janmaat are now key components of the side.
My key player: Arjen Robben
Coach: Louis Van Gaal
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Germany 1974, Argentina 1978, South Africa 2010 (Runners-up), FIFA Futsal World Cup Netherlands 1989 (Runners-up), Men’s Olympic Football Tournament London 1908, Stockholm 1912, Antwerp 1920 (Third place), FIFA U-17 World Cup Peru 2005 (Third place)
Chile: Belo Horizonte
Best price = 50/1
FIFA key players
Forwards Alexis Sanchez and Eduardo Vargas, as well as attacking midfielders Matias Fernandez and Arturo Vidal, are the leading men in a squad packed with talent and boasting viable alternatives in each position. Nor must we forget experienced performers such as Claudio Bravo, Gary Medel and Jorge Valdivia, or exciting rising stars like Jean Beausejour and Marcelo Diaz.
My key player:Arturo Vidal
Coach: Jorge Sampaoli
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Chile 1962 (Third place), FIFA U-17 World Cup Japan 1993 (Third place), FIFA U-20 World Cup Canada 2007 (Third place), Men’s Olympic Football Tournament Sydney 2000 (Third place)
Australia, Vitoria
Best price = 1500/1
FIFA key players
Tim Cahill remains the team’s undoubted star and talisman with a stunning goal ratio from midfield and equally remarkable heading ability despite his modest stature. Long-serving skipper and central defender Lucas Neill remains a bedrock of the team and has never let his country down regardless of domestic form. A two-goal showing at South Africa 2010 has seen Brett Holman’s profile and importance to the team take a sharp upward trajectory with the midfielder displaying versatility and an impressive short passing game.
My key player: Brett Holman
Coach: Ange Postecoglou
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Germany 2006 (Round of 16), FIFA U-17 World Cup New Zealand 1999 (Runners-up)
Spain are very obviously favourites for this group. They only have one game in hot and humid conditions, and they'll probably pleased that it's against the other European side in the group Holland in Salvador. I don't feel that Spain are the same side that won the World Cup and European Championship in their last two tournaments though, and I'm keen to oppose them overall. They still have scores of excellent players, but their brilliance came from the midfield of Xavi and Iniesta. When those two were at their peak no-one could get the ball off them. Spain will try and play the same way, but without these two in decline it will be hard. They also had two of the best strikers in the world in Villa and Torres but even if Torres makes the squad he doesn't seem to be the same player and it remains to be seen if Costa or Negredo can fill the void. I would expect Spain to win this group but if they do they may struggle in their 2nd Round game and Quarter final in the sultry conditions of Forteleza then Salvador, and although looking at likely opponents they would be among the favourites to make the semis, I will look to oppose them in the outright. Holland have plenty of World Cup pedigree but I wonder whether this current crop is as good as previous generations. Van Persie and Robben will lead them but I don't know if they can beat Spain in hot conditions and I suspect they may be the ones to miss out in this tough group. Chile are said to be the team Brazil fear most. It's easy to see why, their style and formation is unique and they have of very talented players like Sanchez and Vidal. They have to beat the Socceroos first, but if they do they might be able to get through this group with two draws against Spain and Holland. If rank outsidersAustralia didn't have enough to contend with the draw in this group, they alsoo have the most travelling, with 1600-2600 mile round trips for each match, and if they avoid three defeats they should get an open-top bus ride on arrival back down under, which will inevitably and unfortunately be immediately after the groups.
Recommended bets
Spain/Chile dual forecast 21/10
Spain: Curitiba
Best price = 7/1
FIFA key players
Though there is no doubt that Spain’s embarrassment of midfield riches, featuring the likes of Xavi, Andres Iniesta and Xabi Alonso, has been integral to their major trophy triumphs, La Selección are strong across the board.
The men in red have a phalanx of very reliable keepers to call on, headed by Iker Casillas, while Sergio Ramos and Gerard Pique have consolidated their positions as the leaders of a defence in which left-back Jordi Alba has gone from strength to strength. Ramos and Alba are also a threat in the opposing box, and in recent times have made goalscoring contributions that have been almost as decisive as those of the front men.
With both David Villa and Fernando Torres struggling to find their touch, Pedro has distinguished himself as an attacking spearhead, ably supported by Cesc Fabregas, while Alvaro Negredo has begun to stake a compelling claim of his own for the striking role.
My key player:Diego Costa
Coach: Vicente del Bosque
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup South Africa 2010 (Winners), FIFA U-20 World Cup Nigeria 1999 (Winners), Men’s Olympic Football Tournament Barcelona 1992 (Winners)
Netherlands: Rio de Janeiro
Best price = 33/1
FIFA key players
Robin van Persie's blossoming into one of the finest strikers in the world has been a huge boon to the Dutch, with the Manchester United marksman topping the goal-scoring charts with 11 goals. He was able assisted in that department though by the likes of Jermaine Lens - who has progressed into a key part of the Oranje outfit - and Rafael van der Vaart. Arjen Robben continues to be a menace on the wing, while formerly promising youngsters such as Kevin Strootman and Daryl Janmaat are now key components of the side.
My key player: Arjen Robben
Coach: Louis Van Gaal
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Germany 1974, Argentina 1978, South Africa 2010 (Runners-up), FIFA Futsal World Cup Netherlands 1989 (Runners-up), Men’s Olympic Football Tournament London 1908, Stockholm 1912, Antwerp 1920 (Third place), FIFA U-17 World Cup Peru 2005 (Third place)
Chile: Belo Horizonte
Best price = 50/1
FIFA key players
Forwards Alexis Sanchez and Eduardo Vargas, as well as attacking midfielders Matias Fernandez and Arturo Vidal, are the leading men in a squad packed with talent and boasting viable alternatives in each position. Nor must we forget experienced performers such as Claudio Bravo, Gary Medel and Jorge Valdivia, or exciting rising stars like Jean Beausejour and Marcelo Diaz.
My key player:Arturo Vidal
Coach: Jorge Sampaoli
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Chile 1962 (Third place), FIFA U-17 World Cup Japan 1993 (Third place), FIFA U-20 World Cup Canada 2007 (Third place), Men’s Olympic Football Tournament Sydney 2000 (Third place)
Australia, Vitoria
Best price = 1500/1
FIFA key players
Tim Cahill remains the team’s undoubted star and talisman with a stunning goal ratio from midfield and equally remarkable heading ability despite his modest stature. Long-serving skipper and central defender Lucas Neill remains a bedrock of the team and has never let his country down regardless of domestic form. A two-goal showing at South Africa 2010 has seen Brett Holman’s profile and importance to the team take a sharp upward trajectory with the midfielder displaying versatility and an impressive short passing game.
My key player: Brett Holman
Coach: Ange Postecoglou
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Germany 2006 (Round of 16), FIFA U-17 World Cup New Zealand 1999 (Runners-up)
Spain are very obviously favourites for this group. They only have one game in hot and humid conditions, and they'll probably pleased that it's against the other European side in the group Holland in Salvador. I don't feel that Spain are the same side that won the World Cup and European Championship in their last two tournaments though, and I'm keen to oppose them overall. They still have scores of excellent players, but their brilliance came from the midfield of Xavi and Iniesta. When those two were at their peak no-one could get the ball off them. Spain will try and play the same way, but without these two in decline it will be hard. They also had two of the best strikers in the world in Villa and Torres but even if Torres makes the squad he doesn't seem to be the same player and it remains to be seen if Costa or Negredo can fill the void. I would expect Spain to win this group but if they do they may struggle in their 2nd Round game and Quarter final in the sultry conditions of Forteleza then Salvador, and although looking at likely opponents they would be among the favourites to make the semis, I will look to oppose them in the outright. Holland have plenty of World Cup pedigree but I wonder whether this current crop is as good as previous generations. Van Persie and Robben will lead them but I don't know if they can beat Spain in hot conditions and I suspect they may be the ones to miss out in this tough group. Chile are said to be the team Brazil fear most. It's easy to see why, their style and formation is unique and they have of very talented players like Sanchez and Vidal. They have to beat the Socceroos first, but if they do they might be able to get through this group with two draws against Spain and Holland. If rank outsidersAustralia didn't have enough to contend with the draw in this group, they alsoo have the most travelling, with 1600-2600 mile round trips for each match, and if they avoid three defeats they should get an open-top bus ride on arrival back down under, which will inevitably and unfortunately be immediately after the groups.
Recommended bets
Spain/Chile dual forecast 21/10
Group D (team guides from FIFA)
Uruguay: Sete Lagoas
Best price = 28/1
The key players
Strikers Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani have become the standard bearers for Uruguayan football and the national team over the last couple of years. The Liverpool man ended the South American preliminaries as the leading scorer with 11 goals, and was the second most-used player by coach Oscar Tabarez. The deadly duo have plenty of ballast behind them, with the vastly experienced Diego Lugano directing rearguard operations with aplomb, and Fernando Muslera providing a safe pair of hands between the posts. Even so, after an often-troubled qualifying campaign El Maestro Tabarez will no doubt be looking to shuffle his pack and build up some momentum ahead of Brazil 2014.
My key player = Luis Suarez
Current coach: Oscar Washington Tabarez
Best performance in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Uruguay 1930 and Brazil 1950 (winners), Men’s Olympic Football Tournament Paris 1924, Amsterdam 1928 (winners), FIFA U-20 World Cup Malaysia 1997 (runners-up), FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Rio de Janeiro 2006 (runners-up), FIFA U-17 World Cup Mexico 2011 (runners-up)
Costa Rica: Santos
Best price = 4,000/1
Key players
Costa Rica’s fortunes lie at the skillful feet of one Bryan Ruiz. Called “a truly special player” by former coach Rodrigo Kenton, Ruiz established himself at club side Twente in the Netherlands before moving on to Fulham in England. Now back in the Eredivisie with PSV Eindhoven, he ranks among the best playmakers in the North, Central American and Caribbean zone. Alongside Ruiz are a number of tried-and-trusted performers like Alvaro Saborio, Cristian Bolanos and outstanding goalkeeper Keilor Navas.The dribbling skills and all-around attacking play of the young Joel Campbell have made him another of Los Ticos’most valuable assets.
My key player = Bryan Ruiz
Coach: Jorge Luis Pinto
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Italy 1990 (Round of 16), FIFA U-20 World Cup Egypt 2009 (Fourth place)
Italy: Mangaratiba
Best price = 28/1
The key players
Captain and goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon is the only survivor from their 2006 triumph in Germany along with Andrea Pirlo, while a host of youngsters have broken into the team, such as central defender Andrea Ranocchia and midfielder Marco Verratti. Up front, the transition from old to new has been even more dramatic thanks to the emergence of Stephan El Shaarawy and Giuseppe Rossi's return to the fore. Also with a vital role to play are the maverick duo of Mario Balotelli and Pablo Osvaldo.
My key player = Gianluigi Buffon
Coach: Cesare Prandelli
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Italy 1934, France 1938, Spain 1982 and Germany 2006 (Winners), Men's Olympic Football Tournament Berlin 1936 (Winners)
England: Rio de Janeiro
Best price = 33/1
The key players
Wayne Rooney remains England’s greatest talent and his seven goals in six World Cup qualifying starts underlined his importance to Roy Hodgson's side. In midfield, Gerrard and Frank Lampard provide experience and creativity while young guns Jack Wilshere, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Andros Townsend highlight the Three Lions' attacking flair for the future. Danny Welbeck came into his own during qualification, scoring four goals on the way to the finals, while Daniel Sturridge's emergence as one of the English Premier League's top forwards can only bolster Roy Hodgson's attacking options for Brazil.
My key player = Adam Lallana
Coach: Roy Hodgson
Best performance in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup England 1966 (Winners)
Group D summary
This is one of the groups I feel most strongly about. First of all, this is the group that will play most games in hot and humid conditions. However, anyone that does get through this group could end up with a decent run to the semis. However, coming second in this group could lead to a quarter final against Brazil. Group favourites Italy are the most unfortunate in the group, playing all three of their games in difficult conditions. They open with England in Manaus, who will be similarly inconvenienced but their other group games in Recife and Natal will surely favour their opponents. Looking at Italy's squad, they have lots of defensive strength, but I don't think they have the forward power of some of the other favourites, and they also have a huge amount of travelling to do, with a 5,000 mile round trip first before two 3,000 mile round trips for their next two games. Italy may qualify, but I don't think they will win the group, and in my eyes they are too short to do both. Uruguay have plenty of goals in them on the other hand, and crucially, may be favoured by sultry conditions for their game against Italy in Natal. Their first choice line-up looks as strong as almost anyone in the tournament and another thing in their favour is that they open up against the team that is on paper the weakest in the group. I can see Uruguay topping the group and if they keep Suarez fit they could go a long way. England are difficult to work out. They come in with a lot of inexperienced players in their squad, and it is very difficult to see them coming out on top very canny opponents like Uruguay and Italy. Qualification from this group would be a major success here, and anything more than that would be a major bonus. Something in their favour is that they play the two American sides in conditions that shouldn't prove too troubling, and don't have a much travelling to do after their first match. Indeed, England have the least travelling and are the only team in the group that only have to play in a hot and humid venue only once, so if they can avoid defeat against Italy in Manaus they could surprise and qualify. Costa Rica probably can't beat Uruguay in typical South American conditions, or England in cooler conditions, but they may have an advantage against Italy in their second game, to be played in Recife.
Suggested bets
Uruguay to win group D 15/8
Italy to finish bottom of Group D 16/1
Uruguay: Sete Lagoas
Best price = 28/1
The key players
Strikers Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani have become the standard bearers for Uruguayan football and the national team over the last couple of years. The Liverpool man ended the South American preliminaries as the leading scorer with 11 goals, and was the second most-used player by coach Oscar Tabarez. The deadly duo have plenty of ballast behind them, with the vastly experienced Diego Lugano directing rearguard operations with aplomb, and Fernando Muslera providing a safe pair of hands between the posts. Even so, after an often-troubled qualifying campaign El Maestro Tabarez will no doubt be looking to shuffle his pack and build up some momentum ahead of Brazil 2014.
My key player = Luis Suarez
Current coach: Oscar Washington Tabarez
Best performance in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Uruguay 1930 and Brazil 1950 (winners), Men’s Olympic Football Tournament Paris 1924, Amsterdam 1928 (winners), FIFA U-20 World Cup Malaysia 1997 (runners-up), FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Rio de Janeiro 2006 (runners-up), FIFA U-17 World Cup Mexico 2011 (runners-up)
Costa Rica: Santos
Best price = 4,000/1
Key players
Costa Rica’s fortunes lie at the skillful feet of one Bryan Ruiz. Called “a truly special player” by former coach Rodrigo Kenton, Ruiz established himself at club side Twente in the Netherlands before moving on to Fulham in England. Now back in the Eredivisie with PSV Eindhoven, he ranks among the best playmakers in the North, Central American and Caribbean zone. Alongside Ruiz are a number of tried-and-trusted performers like Alvaro Saborio, Cristian Bolanos and outstanding goalkeeper Keilor Navas.The dribbling skills and all-around attacking play of the young Joel Campbell have made him another of Los Ticos’most valuable assets.
My key player = Bryan Ruiz
Coach: Jorge Luis Pinto
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Italy 1990 (Round of 16), FIFA U-20 World Cup Egypt 2009 (Fourth place)
Italy: Mangaratiba
Best price = 28/1
The key players
Captain and goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon is the only survivor from their 2006 triumph in Germany along with Andrea Pirlo, while a host of youngsters have broken into the team, such as central defender Andrea Ranocchia and midfielder Marco Verratti. Up front, the transition from old to new has been even more dramatic thanks to the emergence of Stephan El Shaarawy and Giuseppe Rossi's return to the fore. Also with a vital role to play are the maverick duo of Mario Balotelli and Pablo Osvaldo.
My key player = Gianluigi Buffon
Coach: Cesare Prandelli
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Italy 1934, France 1938, Spain 1982 and Germany 2006 (Winners), Men's Olympic Football Tournament Berlin 1936 (Winners)
England: Rio de Janeiro
Best price = 33/1
The key players
Wayne Rooney remains England’s greatest talent and his seven goals in six World Cup qualifying starts underlined his importance to Roy Hodgson's side. In midfield, Gerrard and Frank Lampard provide experience and creativity while young guns Jack Wilshere, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Andros Townsend highlight the Three Lions' attacking flair for the future. Danny Welbeck came into his own during qualification, scoring four goals on the way to the finals, while Daniel Sturridge's emergence as one of the English Premier League's top forwards can only bolster Roy Hodgson's attacking options for Brazil.
My key player = Adam Lallana
Coach: Roy Hodgson
Best performance in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup England 1966 (Winners)
Group D summary
This is one of the groups I feel most strongly about. First of all, this is the group that will play most games in hot and humid conditions. However, anyone that does get through this group could end up with a decent run to the semis. However, coming second in this group could lead to a quarter final against Brazil. Group favourites Italy are the most unfortunate in the group, playing all three of their games in difficult conditions. They open with England in Manaus, who will be similarly inconvenienced but their other group games in Recife and Natal will surely favour their opponents. Looking at Italy's squad, they have lots of defensive strength, but I don't think they have the forward power of some of the other favourites, and they also have a huge amount of travelling to do, with a 5,000 mile round trip first before two 3,000 mile round trips for their next two games. Italy may qualify, but I don't think they will win the group, and in my eyes they are too short to do both. Uruguay have plenty of goals in them on the other hand, and crucially, may be favoured by sultry conditions for their game against Italy in Natal. Their first choice line-up looks as strong as almost anyone in the tournament and another thing in their favour is that they open up against the team that is on paper the weakest in the group. I can see Uruguay topping the group and if they keep Suarez fit they could go a long way. England are difficult to work out. They come in with a lot of inexperienced players in their squad, and it is very difficult to see them coming out on top very canny opponents like Uruguay and Italy. Qualification from this group would be a major success here, and anything more than that would be a major bonus. Something in their favour is that they play the two American sides in conditions that shouldn't prove too troubling, and don't have a much travelling to do after their first match. Indeed, England have the least travelling and are the only team in the group that only have to play in a hot and humid venue only once, so if they can avoid defeat against Italy in Manaus they could surprise and qualify. Costa Rica probably can't beat Uruguay in typical South American conditions, or England in cooler conditions, but they may have an advantage against Italy in their second game, to be played in Recife.
Suggested bets
Uruguay to win group D 15/8
Italy to finish bottom of Group D 16/1
Group C (team guides from FIFA)
Colombia: Cotia
Best price = 33/1
FIFA key players
With his sparkling form at Monaco, the prolific Falcao is now generally regarded as Colombia’s main attacking threat. The 25-year-old predator came to prominence at River Plate, first in the youth team and then with the senior side, before moving to Europe in 2009 where he won two Leagues, two Cups, three Super Cups and the UEFA Europa League with Porto, and then added another UEFA Europa League and European Super Cup with Atletico Madrid. As well as Falcao, the Colombians can also count on the experience of defensive duo Mario Yepes and Luis Perea at the back, as well as the creativity of attacking midfielder James Rodriguez and the goalscoring instinct of Teo Gutierrez, a lethal partner for Falcao up front.
My key player:Juan Cuadrado
Coach: Jose Pekerman
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA U-20 World Cup UAE 2003 (Third place), FIFA World Cup Italy 1990 (Round of 16)
Greece: Aracaju
Best price = 350/1
FIFA key players
Captain and seasoned midfield general Giorgos Karagounis remains the dominant figure in the Greek line-up but forwards Dimitrios Salpingidis and Mitroglou will certainly have a part to play and provide Santos with a variety of attacking options. He can also call on the experience of the likes of Theofanis Gekas and Giorgos Samaras, which will be key when the tournament begins. Incidentally, though, despite their array of attacking talent, it was Greece’s defence that stole the show in qualifying, laying the foundation for success by conceding just four times in ten matches.
My key player Giorgios Karagounis
Coach: Fernando Santos
Best performances in a FIFA competition: USA 1994, South Africa 2010 (Group stages)
Cote Ivoire: Aguas de Lindoia
Best price = 150/1
FIFA key players
Côte d’Ivoire boast some of the greatest individual talents in Africa. Forwards Drogba and Salomon Kalou are a formidable front pair, while midfield duo Didier Zokora and Yaya Toure perform key ball-winning duties in the middle of the park. Explosive winger Gervinho supplies service from both flanks, with Emmanuel Eboue and Kolo Toure providing a wealth of experience at the back.
My key player:Yaya Toure
Coach: Sabri Lamouchi
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Germany 2006, South Africa 2010 (Group stages), FIFA U-17 World Cup Canada 1987 (Third place), FIFA Confederations Cup Saudi Arabia 1992 (Fourth place)
Japan: Itu
Best price = 200/1
FIFA key players
Having excelled during the last FIFA World Cup and the recent AFC Asian Cup, CSKA midfielder Keisuke Honda has quickly established his place as the team's new leader, filling the void left by Hidetoshi Nakata and Shunsuke Nakamura. Spearheading the attacking-line are Shinji Kagawa and Shinji Okazaki, who finished the continental finals as the team's top-scorer with three goals. Driving the central field alongside Honda is set-piece specialist Yasuhito Endo while Schalke 04 defender Atsuto Uchida is the key man at the rearguard.
My key player:Keisuke Honda
Coach: Alberto Zaccheroni
Best performances in a FIFA competition: Men’s Olympic Football Tournament Mexico City 1968 (Third place), FIFA U-20 World Cup Nigeria 1999 (Runners-up), FIFA U-17 World Cup Mexico 2011 (Quarter-finals)
Group C summaryI found this an intriuging group to figure out. The reason this group is so interesting is that both winers and runners-up will have a realistic chance of going a decent way in the tournament. Colombia are in as the seeds and rightly so, finishing 2nd only 2 points behind Argentina in qualifying. They have a fast-improving team of young stars and a home continent World Cup. With their team full of players plying their trade in the top European leagues, they should have enough to qualify from this group but who knows what the pressure of starting as favourites for their group will do? The negatives for me are the lack of match practice for Radamel Falcao who has been picked despite not playing since Janaury, and (like Chile in Group B) the fact that none of their games take place in difficult venues for their opponents. I really like the look of Juan Cuadrado, the wide midfielder from Fiorentina, and think he could be one of the stars of the tournament. If they do qualify, they will play someone from England's group in the second round and then they have a possible quarter final which will either be in Fortaleza or Salvador (depending whether they win their group or come second) and the conditions in those venues should favour the South American side. I can see Colombia going a long way in this tournament IF they get out of the group. What makes it difficult is that their group opponents are similarly difficult to assess. Ivory Coast have some old warhorses like Drogba, Toure, Toure and Zokora - and probably have the most experience of any team in this group. But what will be the key here, experience or mobility? They play Japan first up in Recife in conditions which may just favour the younger Japansese, but may benefit from the conditions in Fortaleza for their last group game against Greece. I wonder whether some of Ivory Coast's better players are now past their best? Their games against Japan and Greece also both involve 3,000 mile round trips from their home base in Aguas de Lindoia. Japan under Zaccharini could provide a minor shock by qualifying from this tough group. Pace and stamina is what Japan's style is about, and games in tough, humid conditions against Ivory Coast and Greece may find out their more experienced opponents. With Kagawa and Honda Japan will cause defences all sorts of problems and if they go through as runners-up they may find they can go all the way to the semi-finals as the runners-up slot would give them games in hot and humid conditions in the 2nd round and quarter-finals in Recife then Salvador. Greece are a team that continually get written off and continually surprise their critics. So I'm going to write them off and criticise them. I can't see them winning a game in this group. Colombia will have too much (although playing them first might be the best time to meet them) and then games against Japan in Natal and Ivory Coast in Fortaleza will probably suit their opponents more than them.
Suggested Bets
Japan to qualify 5/4
Colombia: Cotia
Best price = 33/1
FIFA key players
With his sparkling form at Monaco, the prolific Falcao is now generally regarded as Colombia’s main attacking threat. The 25-year-old predator came to prominence at River Plate, first in the youth team and then with the senior side, before moving to Europe in 2009 where he won two Leagues, two Cups, three Super Cups and the UEFA Europa League with Porto, and then added another UEFA Europa League and European Super Cup with Atletico Madrid. As well as Falcao, the Colombians can also count on the experience of defensive duo Mario Yepes and Luis Perea at the back, as well as the creativity of attacking midfielder James Rodriguez and the goalscoring instinct of Teo Gutierrez, a lethal partner for Falcao up front.
My key player:Juan Cuadrado
Coach: Jose Pekerman
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA U-20 World Cup UAE 2003 (Third place), FIFA World Cup Italy 1990 (Round of 16)
Greece: Aracaju
Best price = 350/1
FIFA key players
Captain and seasoned midfield general Giorgos Karagounis remains the dominant figure in the Greek line-up but forwards Dimitrios Salpingidis and Mitroglou will certainly have a part to play and provide Santos with a variety of attacking options. He can also call on the experience of the likes of Theofanis Gekas and Giorgos Samaras, which will be key when the tournament begins. Incidentally, though, despite their array of attacking talent, it was Greece’s defence that stole the show in qualifying, laying the foundation for success by conceding just four times in ten matches.
My key player Giorgios Karagounis
Coach: Fernando Santos
Best performances in a FIFA competition: USA 1994, South Africa 2010 (Group stages)
Cote Ivoire: Aguas de Lindoia
Best price = 150/1
FIFA key players
Côte d’Ivoire boast some of the greatest individual talents in Africa. Forwards Drogba and Salomon Kalou are a formidable front pair, while midfield duo Didier Zokora and Yaya Toure perform key ball-winning duties in the middle of the park. Explosive winger Gervinho supplies service from both flanks, with Emmanuel Eboue and Kolo Toure providing a wealth of experience at the back.
My key player:Yaya Toure
Coach: Sabri Lamouchi
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Germany 2006, South Africa 2010 (Group stages), FIFA U-17 World Cup Canada 1987 (Third place), FIFA Confederations Cup Saudi Arabia 1992 (Fourth place)
Japan: Itu
Best price = 200/1
FIFA key players
Having excelled during the last FIFA World Cup and the recent AFC Asian Cup, CSKA midfielder Keisuke Honda has quickly established his place as the team's new leader, filling the void left by Hidetoshi Nakata and Shunsuke Nakamura. Spearheading the attacking-line are Shinji Kagawa and Shinji Okazaki, who finished the continental finals as the team's top-scorer with three goals. Driving the central field alongside Honda is set-piece specialist Yasuhito Endo while Schalke 04 defender Atsuto Uchida is the key man at the rearguard.
My key player:Keisuke Honda
Coach: Alberto Zaccheroni
Best performances in a FIFA competition: Men’s Olympic Football Tournament Mexico City 1968 (Third place), FIFA U-20 World Cup Nigeria 1999 (Runners-up), FIFA U-17 World Cup Mexico 2011 (Quarter-finals)
Group C summaryI found this an intriuging group to figure out. The reason this group is so interesting is that both winers and runners-up will have a realistic chance of going a decent way in the tournament. Colombia are in as the seeds and rightly so, finishing 2nd only 2 points behind Argentina in qualifying. They have a fast-improving team of young stars and a home continent World Cup. With their team full of players plying their trade in the top European leagues, they should have enough to qualify from this group but who knows what the pressure of starting as favourites for their group will do? The negatives for me are the lack of match practice for Radamel Falcao who has been picked despite not playing since Janaury, and (like Chile in Group B) the fact that none of their games take place in difficult venues for their opponents. I really like the look of Juan Cuadrado, the wide midfielder from Fiorentina, and think he could be one of the stars of the tournament. If they do qualify, they will play someone from England's group in the second round and then they have a possible quarter final which will either be in Fortaleza or Salvador (depending whether they win their group or come second) and the conditions in those venues should favour the South American side. I can see Colombia going a long way in this tournament IF they get out of the group. What makes it difficult is that their group opponents are similarly difficult to assess. Ivory Coast have some old warhorses like Drogba, Toure, Toure and Zokora - and probably have the most experience of any team in this group. But what will be the key here, experience or mobility? They play Japan first up in Recife in conditions which may just favour the younger Japansese, but may benefit from the conditions in Fortaleza for their last group game against Greece. I wonder whether some of Ivory Coast's better players are now past their best? Their games against Japan and Greece also both involve 3,000 mile round trips from their home base in Aguas de Lindoia. Japan under Zaccharini could provide a minor shock by qualifying from this tough group. Pace and stamina is what Japan's style is about, and games in tough, humid conditions against Ivory Coast and Greece may find out their more experienced opponents. With Kagawa and Honda Japan will cause defences all sorts of problems and if they go through as runners-up they may find they can go all the way to the semi-finals as the runners-up slot would give them games in hot and humid conditions in the 2nd round and quarter-finals in Recife then Salvador. Greece are a team that continually get written off and continually surprise their critics. So I'm going to write them off and criticise them. I can't see them winning a game in this group. Colombia will have too much (although playing them first might be the best time to meet them) and then games against Japan in Natal and Ivory Coast in Fortaleza will probably suit their opponents more than them.
Suggested Bets
Japan to qualify 5/4
Group C (team guides from FIFA)
Colombia: Cotia
Best price = 33/1
FIFA key players
With his sparkling form at Monaco, the prolific Falcao is now generally regarded as Colombia’s main attacking threat. The 25-year-old predator came to prominence at River Plate, first in the youth team and then with the senior side, before moving to Europe in 2009 where he won two Leagues, two Cups, three Super Cups and the UEFA Europa League with Porto, and then added another UEFA Europa League and European Super Cup with Atletico Madrid. As well as Falcao, the Colombians can also count on the experience of defensive duo Mario Yepes and Luis Perea at the back, as well as the creativity of attacking midfielder James Rodriguez and the goalscoring instinct of Teo Gutierrez, a lethal partner for Falcao up front.
My key player:Juan Cuadrado
Coach: Jose Pekerman
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA U-20 World Cup UAE 2003 (Third place), FIFA World Cup Italy 1990 (Round of 16)
Greece: Aracaju
Best price = 350/1
FIFA key players
Captain and seasoned midfield general Giorgos Karagounis remains the dominant figure in the Greek line-up but forwards Dimitrios Salpingidis and Mitroglou will certainly have a part to play and provide Santos with a variety of attacking options. He can also call on the experience of the likes of Theofanis Gekas and Giorgos Samaras, which will be key when the tournament begins. Incidentally, though, despite their array of attacking talent, it was Greece’s defence that stole the show in qualifying, laying the foundation for success by conceding just four times in ten matches.
My key player Giorgios Karagounis
Coach: Fernando Santos
Best performances in a FIFA competition: USA 1994, South Africa 2010 (Group stages)
Cote Ivoire: Aguas de Lindoia
Best price = 150/1
FIFA key players
Côte d’Ivoire boast some of the greatest individual talents in Africa. Forwards Drogba and Salomon Kalou are a formidable front pair, while midfield duo Didier Zokora and Yaya Toure perform key ball-winning duties in the middle of the park. Explosive winger Gervinho supplies service from both flanks, with Emmanuel Eboue and Kolo Toure providing a wealth of experience at the back.
My key player: Yaya Toure
Coach: Sabri Lamouchi
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Germany 2006, South Africa 2010 (Group stages), FIFA U-17 World Cup Canada 1987 (Third place), FIFA Confederations Cup Saudi Arabia 1992 (Fourth place)
Japan: Itu
Best price = 200/1
FIFA key players
Having excelled during the last FIFA World Cup and the recent AFC Asian Cup, CSKA midfielder Keisuke Honda has quickly established his place as the team's new leader, filling the void left by Hidetoshi Nakata and Shunsuke Nakamura. Spearheading the attacking-line are Shinji Kagawa and Shinji Okazaki, who finished the continental finals as the team's top-scorer with three goals. Driving the central field alongside Honda is set-piece specialist Yasuhito Endo while Schalke 04 defender Atsuto Uchida is the key man at the rearguard.
My key player:Keisuke Honda
Coach: Alberto Zaccheroni
Best performances in a FIFA competition: Men’s Olympic Football Tournament Mexico City 1968 (Third place), FIFA U-20 World Cup Nigeria 1999 (Runners-up), FIFA U-17 World Cup Mexico 2011 (Quarter-finals)
Group C summary
I found this an intriuging group to figure out. The reason this group is so interesting is that both winers and runners-up will have a realistic chance of going a decent way in the tournament. Colombia are in as the seeds and rightly so, finishing 2nd only 2 points behind Argentina in qualifying. They have a fast-improving team of young stars and a home continent World Cup. With their team full of players plying their trade in the top European leagues, they should have enough to qualify from this group but who knows what the pressure of starting as favourites for their group will do? The negatives for me are the lack of match practice for Radamel Falcao who has been picked despite not playing since Janaury, and (like Chile in Group B) the fact that none of their games take place in difficult venues for their opponents. I really like the look of Juan Cuadrado, the wide midfielder from Fiorentina, and think he could be one of the stars of the tournament. If they do qualify, they will play someone from England's group in the second round and then they have a possible quarter final which will either be in Fortaleza or Salvador (depending whether they win their group or come second) and the conditions in those venues should favour the South American side. I can see Colombia going a long way in this tournament IF they get out of the group. What makes it difficult is that their group opponents are similarly difficult to assess. Ivory Coast have some old warhorses like Drogba, Toure, Toure and Zokora - and probably have the most experience of any team in this group. But what will be the key here, experience or mobility? They play Japan first up in Recife in conditions which may just favour the younger Japansese, but may benefit from the conditions in Fortaleza for their last group game against Greece. I wonder whether some of Ivory Coast's better players are now past their best? Their games against Japan and Greece also both involve 3,000 mile round trips from their home base in Aguas de Lindoia. Japan under Zaccharini could provide a minor shock by qualifying from this tough group. Pace and stamina is what Japan's style is about, and games in tough, humid conditions against Ivory Coast and Greece may find out their more experienced opponents. With Kagawa and Honda Japan will cause defences all sorts of problems and if they go through as runners-up they may find they can go all the way to the semi-finals as the runners-up slot would give them games in hot and humid conditions in the 2nd round and quarter-finals in Recife then Salvador. Greece are a team that continually get written off and continually surprise their critics. So I'm going to write them off and criticise them. I can't see them winning a game in this group. Colombia will have too much (although playing them first might be the best time to meet them) and then games against Japan in Natal and Ivory Coast in Fortaleza will probably suit their opponents more than them.
Suggested Bets
Japan to qualify 5/4
Group D (team guides from FIFA)
Uruguay: Sete Lagoas
Best price = 28/1
The key players
Strikers Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani have become the standard bearers for Uruguayan football and the national team over the last couple of years. The Liverpool man ended the South American preliminaries as the leading scorer with 11 goals, and was the second most-used player by coach Oscar Tabarez. The deadly duo have plenty of ballast behind them, with the vastly experienced Diego Lugano directing rearguard operations with aplomb, and Fernando Muslera providing a safe pair of hands between the posts. Even so, after an often-troubled qualifying campaign El Maestro Tabarez will no doubt be looking to shuffle his pack and build up some momentum ahead of Brazil 2014.
My key player = Luis Suarez
Current coach: Oscar Washington Tabarez
Best performance in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Uruguay 1930 and Brazil 1950 (winners), Men’s Olympic Football Tournament Paris 1924, Amsterdam 1928 (winners), FIFA U-20 World Cup Malaysia 1997 (runners-up), FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Rio de Janeiro 2006 (runners-up), FIFA U-17 World Cup Mexico 2011 (runners-up)
Costa Rica: Santos
Best price = 4,000/1
Key players
Costa Rica’s fortunes lie at the skillful feet of one Bryan Ruiz. Called “a truly special player” by former coach Rodrigo Kenton, Ruiz established himself at club side Twente in the Netherlands before moving on to Fulham in England. Now back in the Eredivisie with PSV Eindhoven, he ranks among the best playmakers in the North, Central American and Caribbean zone. Alongside Ruiz are a number of tried-and-trusted performers like Alvaro Saborio, Cristian Bolanos and outstanding goalkeeper Keilor Navas.The dribbling skills and all-around attacking play of the young Joel Campbell have made him another of Los Ticos’most valuable assets.
My key player = Bryan Ruiz
Coach: Jorge Luis Pinto
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Italy 1990 (Round of 16), FIFA U-20 World Cup Egypt 2009 (Fourth place)
Italy: Mangaratiba
Best price = 28/1
The key players
Captain and goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon is the only survivor from their 2006 triumph in Germany along with Andrea Pirlo, while a host of youngsters have broken into the team, such as central defender Andrea Ranocchia and midfielder Marco Verratti. Up front, the transition from old to new has been even more dramatic thanks to the emergence of Stephan El Shaarawy and Giuseppe Rossi's return to the fore. Also with a vital role to play are the maverick duo of Mario Balotelli and Pablo Osvaldo.
My key player = Gianluigi Buffon
Coach: Cesare Prandelli
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Italy 1934, France 1938, Spain 1982 and Germany 2006 (Winners), Men's Olympic Football Tournament Berlin 1936 (Winners)
England: Rio de Janeiro
Best price = 33/1
The key players
Wayne Rooney remains England’s greatest talent and his seven goals in six World Cup qualifying starts underlined his importance to Roy Hodgson's side. In midfield, Gerrard and Frank Lampard provide experience and creativity while young guns Jack Wilshere, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Andros Townsend highlight the Three Lions' attacking flair for the future. Danny Welbeck came into his own during qualification, scoring four goals on the way to the finals, while Daniel Sturridge's emergence as one of the English Premier League's top forwards can only bolster Roy Hodgson's attacking options for Brazil.
My key player = Adam Lallana
Coach: Roy Hodgson
Best performance in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup England 1966(Winners)
Group D summary
This is one of the groups I feel most strongly about. First of all, this is the group that will play most games in hot and humid conditions. Anyone that does get through this group could end up with a decent run to the semis. Or, depending on the other groups, coming second could lead to a quarter final against Brazil. Group favourites Italy are the most unfortunate in the group, playing all three of their games in difficult conditions. They open with England in Manaus, who will be similarly inconvenienced but their other group games in Recife and Natal will surely favour their opponents. Looking at Italy's squad, they have lots of defensive strength, but I don't think they have the forward power of some of the other favourites, and they also have a huge amount of travelling to do, with a 5,000 mile round trip first before two 3,000 mile round trips for their next two games. Italy may qualify, but I don't think they will win the group, and in my eyes they are too short to do both. Uruguay have plenty of goals in them on the other hand, and crucially, may be favoured by sultry conditions for their game against Italy in Natal. Their first choice line-up looks as strong as almost anyone in the tournament and another thing in their favour is that they open up against the team that is on paper the weakest in the group. I can see Uruguay topping the group and if they keep Suarez fit they could go a long way. England are difficult to work out. They come in with a lot of inexperienced players in their squad, and it is very difficult to see them coming out on top against very canny opponents like Uruguay and Italy. Qualification from this group would be a major success in my eyes, and anything more than that would be a major bonus. Something in their favour is that they play the two American sides in conditions that shouldn't prove too troubling, and don't have a much travelling to do after their first match. Indeed, England have the least travelling and are the only team in the group that only have to play in a hot and humid venue only once, so if they can avoid defeat against Italy in Manaus they could surprise and qualify. Costa Rica probably can't beat Uruguay in typical South American conditions, or England in cooler conditions, but they may have an advantage against Italy in their second game, to be played in Recife.
Suggested bets
Uruguay to win group D 15/8
Italy to finish bottom of Group D 16/1
Group E (team guides from FIFA)
Switzerland: Porto Seguro
Best Price: 125/1
FIFA's key players
There is undoubted quality throughout the side, starting with keeper Diego Benaglio, a German championship winner in 2009 with VfL Wolfsburg. The combination of experienced players such as Tranquillo Barnetta, Gokhan Inler and Philippe Senderos, with highly-talented youngsters Xherdan Shaqiri, Fabian Schar, Granit Xhaka and Valentin Stocker, has borne fruit and the side are more than capable of making their mark at Brazil 2014.
My key player: Granit Xhaka
Coach: Ottmar Hitzfeld
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA U-17 World Cup Nigeria 2009 (Winners), FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Dubai 2009 (Runners-up), FIFA World Cup Italy 1934, France 1938, Switzerland 1954 (Quarter-finals)
Ecuador: Viamao
Best price = 200/1
FIFA's key players
Wingers Antonio Valencia and Christian Noboa, as well as forwards Felipe Caicedo and Jefferson Montero, represent an exciting new wave for Ecuadorian football, but they are also ably assisted by a handful of evergreen stalwarts with European experience, such as Edison Mendez, Walter Ayovi and Segundo Castillo.
My key player = Felipe Caicedo
Coach: Reinaldo Rueda
Best performance in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Germany 2006 (Round of 16)
France: Ribeirao Preto
Best price = 25/1
FIFA's key players
France boast solidity and strength in depth at the back, with a pair of top-drawer goalkeepers in Hugo Lloris and Steve Mandanda and a rearguard bolstered by the European experience of Eric Abidal, Laurent Koscielny and Raphael Varane. Further forward, Franck Ribery can produce moments of magic, while Karim Benzema and Olivier Giroud both possess a keen eye for goal.
My key player = Paul Pogba
Coach: Didier Deschamps
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup France 1998 (Winners), Men's Olympic Football Tournament Los Angeles 1984 (Winners), FIFA Confederations Cup Korea/Japan 2001, France 2003 (Winners), FIFA U-17 World Cup Trinidad and Tobago 2001 (Winners), and FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Rio de Janeiro 2005 (Winners)
Honduras: Porto Feliz
Best price = 4,000/1
The key players
Left-back Emilio Izaguirre was the find of the 2010/11 season for Celtic - named Scottish Premier League Player of the Year - and is a key force within Honduras's respectable backline. He is helped by captain and goalkeeper Noel Valladares who, despite a shy off-the-field personality, played an instrumental role in Honduras's qualification for South Africa 2010 and their deep run at the latest instalment of the Gold Cup. Wilson Palacios, one of the more recognisable faces of Honduran football playing for Stoke City, is also a crucial piece of the Honduran puzzle.
The front line have been doing their bit too, where old hand Carlo Costly has impressed alongside rising star Jerry Bengtson, who burst on to the international scene at London 2012 and top-scored for La H in the qualifiers with nine goals.
My key player = Jerry Bengston
Current coach: Luis Fernando Suarez
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Spain 1982, South Africa 2010 (Group stages)
Group E summary
A tricky and trappy group to work out. At first glance the temptation is to go with the European sides, but then you think about European sides' records outside Europe and you have to consider how much the conditions will play a part. So let's look. Only two group games will take place in uncomfortably hot and humid conditions and Switzerland feature in both. Luckily for them, neither is against Ecuador. The other good news for any European side that gets through this group is that they won't have to visit another venue where conditions will be unfavourable for the rest of the tournament as whether they come 1st or 2nd their 2nd Round, QF, SF and final will all be in normal or perfect conditions. Switzerland have to overcome a suspicion they qualified through a relatively easy group, but they have performed well in under-age tournaments recently and they have a number of up-and-coming technical attacking players and can dispel the stereotype of boring Swiss. They should be underestimated by no-one. They have Ecuador first in temperate Brasilia before difficult condition matches against France in Salvador and Honduras in Manaus. I think they are rightly second favourites to go through but all three matches are very tough. Mrs Nasri might not be waving the tricolor this year but France look to have strength in all positions, and in my eyes they are rightly favourite for this group. They'll be happy to play both the American sides in conditions that won't be a disadvantage and from their base in Ribeirao Preto they have no more travelling to do than their group opponents. Those who believe in that sort of thing may be buoyed by their recent record which reads '98 = winners, '02 = group exit, '06 finalists, '10 = group exit...so following that pattern would see them get back to the final. They will be helped if they do qualify by knowing that they won't have to play a South American side in the latter stages in tough conditions. The game against Ecuador could also be useful practice for later matches should it work out that way. Ecuador are a very strong and physical side. I don't think anyone will enjoy playing agains them. They have had the allegation thrown at them that they only qualified because they play their home games at high altitude at Quito. Their home record is excellent, but they won in Portugal a couple of years ago and absolutely outplayed Germany in a friendly in Florida a year ago. They were 4-0 down in 25 minutes but were by far the better side for the whole match and should have won comfortably despite actually losing 4-2. I'm sure Ecuador would have loved to play the two European sides in hot and humid conditions, which along with their ahtletic, physical style would cause their opponents problems. The fact that all Ecuador's games in this World Cup will take place in normal conditions is to their disadvantage. Ecuador can qualify anyway and I think they are very underrated, but this is a tough group. If Honduras get through this group it will be a massive shock. They've got some talented players and there's no easy games at International football blah blah but anyone that doesn't get maximum points against Honduras in this group doesn't deserve to progress. France should qualify and win the group but are priced accordingly.
Suggested Bets
No bet
Group G
Germany: Santa Cruz Cabralia
Best price = 6/1
FIFA's key players
Keeper Manuel Neuer is the undisputed No1, while many experts believe he is the real deal, equipped not only to follow in the footsteps of Oliver Kahn and Jens Lehmann, but also to develop into one of the best in the world. Full-back Philipp Lahm and schemer Bastian Schweinsteiger earned their international spurs long ago: each has reached 100 caps but is still at their peak.
The next generation appears immensely promising too. Former Real Madrid starlet Mesut Ozil, who now laces his boots at Arsenal was just 21 when he thrilled the crowds at the 2010 FIFA World Cup and is a gifted creative player with passing ability to match the best in the world. Up front, Thomas Muller won the adidas Golden Boot and was named Best Young Player at the 2010 finals, while youngsters Marco Reus, Andre Schurrle, Toni Kroos and Mario Gotze keep getting better and better.
My key player: Philip Lahm
Coach: Joachim Low
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Switzerland 1954, Germany 1974, Italy 1990 (Winners), FIFA U-20 World Cup Australia 1981 (Winners)
Portugal: Campinas
Best price = 33/1
FIFA's key players
As he showed in the play-off against Sweden, Cristiano Ronaldo is still very much Portugal’s go-to man, though the peerless Real Madrid star is supported is by a very able cast. The central-defensive pairing of Pepe and Bruno Alves is the cornerstone of a very solid rearguard that also features flying full-backs Joao Pereira and Fabio Coentrao. Joao Moutinho is the heartbeat of a creative midfield unit, while Nani can also be relied upon to shine alongside Ronaldo.
My key player: Cristiano Ronaldo
Current coach: Paulo Bento
Best performances in a FIFA competition: 1966 FIFA World Cup England (third place), FIFA U-20 World Cup Saudi Arabia 1989 and Portugal 1991 (winners), FIFA U-20 World Cup Colombia 2011 (runners-up), FIFA U-17 World Cup Scotland 1989 (third place).
Ghana: Maceio
Current coach: Paulo Bento
Best performances in a FIFA competition: 1966 FIFA World Cup England (third place), FIFA U-20 World Cup Saudi Arabia 1989 and Portugal 1991 (winners), FIFA U-20 World Cup Colombia 2011 (runners-up), FIFA U-17 World Cup Scotland 1989 (third place).
Ghana: Maceio
Best price = 250/1
FIFA's key players
There are few better midfields in the world than Ghana's as the Black Stars can call on veterans Michael Essien and Sulley Muntari as well as players hitting their prime like Andre Ayew, Kwadwo Asamoah and Kevin-Prince Boateng. Up front, the athletic Asamoah Gyan will be a vital focal point and no doubt anxious to prove that Ghana can be the undisputed class of Africa.
My key player: Kevin-Prince Boateng
Coach: Kwesi Appiah
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup South Africa 2010 (Quarter-finals), FIFA U-17 World Cup Italy 1991, Ecuador 1995 (Winners), FIFA U-20 World Cup Egypt 2009 (Winners)
USA: Sao Paulo
Best price = 250/1
FIFA's Key players
Jozy Altidore, of English Premier League outfit Sunderland, emerged as the complete package during the final qualifying competition. Left out of the team due to poor form and attitude in the semi-final round, Klinsmann reconsidered and wasn’t let down by his burly striker, who scored goals for fun and was the perfect partner for Clint Dempsey in attack. Landon Donovan, long-time creative icon of the US national, made a return to football after a self-imposed months-long ‘sabbatical’ and linked up beautifully with the sturdy central midfield presence of Roma’s Michael Bradley. With Tim Howard still a dominant presence between the sticks, the Americans are loaded with ability wherever you look.
My key player: Geoff Cameron
Coach: Jurgen Klinsmann
Best performances in a FIFA Competition: FIFA World Cup Uruguay 1930 (Third place), FIFA Confederations Cup Saudi Arabia 1992, Mexico 1999 (Third place), FIFA U-20 World Cup Saudi Arabia 1989 (Fourth place), FIFA U-17 World Cup New Zealand 1999 (Fourth place), FIFA Confederations Cup South Africa 2009 (Second place)
Group G Summary
Germany have a team absolutely full of stars. Neuer, Lahm, Hummels, Boateng, Khedira, Kroos, Gotze, Schweinsteiger, Ozil, Muller etc. They have amazing World Cup pedigree, and all their players play at top teams. They are a side that everyone will be afraid of and they are rightly in the top 3 in the outright market. But they have about the worst draw of the whole tournament in terms of European sides playing in difficult conditions. They play Portugal in Salvador then Ghana in Fortaleza and finally USA in Recife. I suspect that the conditions will favour all three of their opponents more than them. They also have a fair amount of travelling to do, with 700m, 2000m and 1700m round trips from their base in Santa Cruz Cabralia. Lastly, whilst their defence and midfield is full of starsthey seem to lack quality in the forward department, with only Klose and Hofland as out-and-out strikers. For these reason, and more importantly the price, I am going to take Germany on. Portugal are my idea of group winners. In terms of conditions they have landed on their feet. They play Germany in conditions the Southern Europeans might cope better with, and then when they play Ghana, unlike Germany, it will be in cooler Cuiaba. I worry about the amount of travelling the Portugese have to do, but speaking the language might be a big advantage for the Portugese, and they may get some support from their Brazilian "brothers" as Ronaldo has requested. But even on their own terms, Portugal are an excellent team packed with talent and with Ronaldo in the side anything is possible. Ghana are the other reason I am opposing Germany. They are nobody's mugs, and taking on Germany in Fortaleza gives them a chance of an upset. They are very well organised, physical and full of technical ability. If anything I always think Ghana would benefit from being a bit more flexible and attacking, but they have threatened to go a long way despite some shocking draws in previous tournaments and this one could be the one where they do. USA are the weakest team in the group in my eyes, have three games in hot & humid conditions and have a stupid amount of travelling to do. I don't see them qualifying, but they have excellent spirit and they are capable of throwing a spanner in the works of any of these three teams, which is another reason why I don't mind opposing the short-priced Germans in this group.
Suggested Bets
Lay Germany as group winners at 1.65 or less
Lay Germany to qualify at 1.18
Ghana to qualify at 3/1
Germany: Santa Cruz Cabralia
Best price = 6/1
FIFA's key players
Keeper Manuel Neuer is the undisputed No1, while many experts believe he is the real deal, equipped not only to follow in the footsteps of Oliver Kahn and Jens Lehmann, but also to develop into one of the best in the world. Full-back Philipp Lahm and schemer Bastian Schweinsteiger earned their international spurs long ago: each has reached 100 caps but is still at their peak.
The next generation appears immensely promising too. Former Real Madrid starlet Mesut Ozil, who now laces his boots at Arsenal was just 21 when he thrilled the crowds at the 2010 FIFA World Cup and is a gifted creative player with passing ability to match the best in the world. Up front, Thomas Muller won the adidas Golden Boot and was named Best Young Player at the 2010 finals, while youngsters Marco Reus, Andre Schurrle, Toni Kroos and Mario Gotze keep getting better and better.
My key player: Philip Lahm
Coach: Joachim Low
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Switzerland 1954, Germany 1974, Italy 1990 (Winners), FIFA U-20 World Cup Australia 1981 (Winners)
Portugal: Campinas
Best price = 33/1
FIFA's key players
As he showed in the play-off against Sweden, Cristiano Ronaldo is still very much Portugal’s go-to man, though the peerless Real Madrid star is supported is by a very able cast. The central-defensive pairing of Pepe and Bruno Alves is the cornerstone of a very solid rearguard that also features flying full-backs Joao Pereira and Fabio Coentrao. Joao Moutinho is the heartbeat of a creative midfield unit, while Nani can also be relied upon to shine alongside Ronaldo.
My key player: Cristiano Ronaldo
Current coach: Paulo Bento
Best performances in a FIFA competition: 1966 FIFA World Cup England (third place), FIFA U-20 World Cup Saudi Arabia 1989 and Portugal 1991 (winners), FIFA U-20 World Cup Colombia 2011 (runners-up), FIFA U-17 World Cup Scotland 1989 (third place).
Ghana: Maceio
Current coach: Paulo Bento
Best performances in a FIFA competition: 1966 FIFA World Cup England (third place), FIFA U-20 World Cup Saudi Arabia 1989 and Portugal 1991 (winners), FIFA U-20 World Cup Colombia 2011 (runners-up), FIFA U-17 World Cup Scotland 1989 (third place).
Ghana: Maceio
Best price = 250/1
FIFA's key players
There are few better midfields in the world than Ghana's as the Black Stars can call on veterans Michael Essien and Sulley Muntari as well as players hitting their prime like Andre Ayew, Kwadwo Asamoah and Kevin-Prince Boateng. Up front, the athletic Asamoah Gyan will be a vital focal point and no doubt anxious to prove that Ghana can be the undisputed class of Africa.
My key player: Kevin-Prince Boateng
Coach: Kwesi Appiah
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup South Africa 2010 (Quarter-finals), FIFA U-17 World Cup Italy 1991, Ecuador 1995 (Winners), FIFA U-20 World Cup Egypt 2009 (Winners)
USA: Sao Paulo
Best price = 250/1
FIFA's Key players
Jozy Altidore, of English Premier League outfit Sunderland, emerged as the complete package during the final qualifying competition. Left out of the team due to poor form and attitude in the semi-final round, Klinsmann reconsidered and wasn’t let down by his burly striker, who scored goals for fun and was the perfect partner for Clint Dempsey in attack. Landon Donovan, long-time creative icon of the US national, made a return to football after a self-imposed months-long ‘sabbatical’ and linked up beautifully with the sturdy central midfield presence of Roma’s Michael Bradley. With Tim Howard still a dominant presence between the sticks, the Americans are loaded with ability wherever you look.
My key player: Geoff Cameron
Coach: Jurgen Klinsmann
Best performances in a FIFA Competition: FIFA World Cup Uruguay 1930 (Third place), FIFA Confederations Cup Saudi Arabia 1992, Mexico 1999 (Third place), FIFA U-20 World Cup Saudi Arabia 1989 (Fourth place), FIFA U-17 World Cup New Zealand 1999 (Fourth place), FIFA Confederations Cup South Africa 2009 (Second place)
Group G Summary
Germany have a team absolutely full of stars. Neuer, Lahm, Hummels, Boateng, Khedira, Kroos, Gotze, Schweinsteiger, Ozil, Muller etc. They have amazing World Cup pedigree, and all their players play at top teams. They are a side that everyone will be afraid of and they are rightly in the top 3 in the outright market. But they have about the worst draw of the whole tournament in terms of European sides playing in difficult conditions. They play Portugal in Salvador then Ghana in Fortaleza and finally USA in Recife. I suspect that the conditions will favour all three of their opponents more than them. They also have a fair amount of travelling to do, with 700m, 2000m and 1700m round trips from their base in Santa Cruz Cabralia. Lastly, whilst their defence and midfield is full of starsthey seem to lack quality in the forward department, with only Klose and Hofland as out-and-out strikers. For these reason, and more importantly the price, I am going to take Germany on. Portugal are my idea of group winners. In terms of conditions they have landed on their feet. They play Germany in conditions the Southern Europeans might cope better with, and then when they play Ghana, unlike Germany, it will be in cooler Cuiaba. I worry about the amount of travelling the Portugese have to do, but speaking the language might be a big advantage for the Portugese, and they may get some support from their Brazilian "brothers" as Ronaldo has requested. But even on their own terms, Portugal are an excellent team packed with talent and with Ronaldo in the side anything is possible. Ghana are the other reason I am opposing Germany. They are nobody's mugs, and taking on Germany in Fortaleza gives them a chance of an upset. They are very well organised, physical and full of technical ability. If anything I always think Ghana would benefit from being a bit more flexible and attacking, but they have threatened to go a long way despite some shocking draws in previous tournaments and this one could be the one where they do. USA are the weakest team in the group in my eyes, have three games in hot & humid conditions and have a stupid amount of travelling to do. I don't see them qualifying, but they have excellent spirit and they are capable of throwing a spanner in the works of any of these three teams, which is another reason why I don't mind opposing the short-priced Germans in this group.
Suggested Bets
Lay Germany as group winners at 1.65 or less
Lay Germany to qualify at 1.18
Ghana to qualify at 3/1
Group H
Belgium: Mogi das Cruzes
Best price = 20/1
FIFA's key players
On paper, Belgium can call upon an armada of stars, all plying their trade in Europe’s most prestigious championships. The depth of their talent pool is striking, with Nacer Chadli threatening to eclipse crowd favourite Eden Hazard before the latter has approached anything near his peak. Romelu Lukaku, Kevin de Bruyne, Thibaut Courtois and Toby Alderweireld are the latest stars to emerge, while the likes of Vincent Kompany, Thomas Vermaelen, Axel Witsel, Marouane Fellaini and Steven Defour have already established themselves as senior figures.
My key player: Vincent Kompany
Coach: Marc Wilmots
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Mexico 1986 (Fourth place), Men’s Olympic Football Tournament Antwerp 1920 (Winners)
Algeria: Sorocaba
Best price = 2,500/1
FIFA's key players
Madjid Bougherra is a key figure at the back, and he scored the all-important winner in the second leg against Burkina Faso. Sofiane Feghouli is an exciting attacking midfielder, while Medhi Lacen holds things down in front of the defence. Islam Slimani emerged as the most prolific option in attack during qualifying.
My key player: Sofiane Feghouli
Coach: Vahid Halilhodzic
Best performances in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Spain 1982, Mexico 1986, South Africa 2010 (Group stages)
Russia: Itu
Best price = 100/1
FIFA's key players
This latest Russian side is built on solid defensive foundations. Goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev did not miss a single minute of the qualifying competition and conceded just five goals during the course of it, while Sergey Ignashevich marshalled the defence with aplomb. Yet Fabio Capello’s most prized assets can be found in what is a technically gifted and astute midfield unit, where Roman Shirokov and Victor Fayzulin have continued to hone the partnership they have forged at Zenit St Petersburg, scoring six goals between them in the qualifiers.
Perhaps not surprisingly, the team’s top scorer was Kerzhakov. Though not always a starter, the Zenit striker helped himself to five goals during the campaign, the most important of them being that winner against the Portuguese. A lethal finisher, the former Sevilla man could wreak havoc in Brazil.
My key player: Igor Akinfeev
Current coach: Fabio Capello
Best performance in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup England 1966 (Fourth place)
Korea Republic: Foz do Iguacu
Best price: 500/1
FIFA's key players
The squad's make-up kept changing during the qualifying and under new coach Hong Myungbo, a new-look team has taken shape. A series of emerging stars, notably German-based Son Heungmin and Koo Jacheol, have graduated into the team's backbone force. Bolton Wanderers' Lee Chungyong is the new man wearing the captain's armband and home-based Kim Shinwook and Lee Keunho are proven goal-scorers.
My key player: Young-Gwon Kim
Current coach: Hong Myungbo
Best performance in a FIFA competition: FIFA World Cup Korea/Japan 2002 (Fourth place)
Group H Summary
Belgium have a staggering amount of quality throughout their team. When you look at names like Courtois, Kompany, Alderweired, Hazard, Fellaini, Witsel and Lukaku it's easy to see why they are favourites for Group H and 5th favourites overall. They are plenty short enough now at 20/1, but they are my ideas of Group winners here. The draw has been fairly kind to them, and they will play at three favourable locations. Their base of Mogi des Cruzes is perfect for their three group games and they won't experience Brazil's hot and humid parts in this group. Algeria have plenty of players in European leagues, and whilst they will probably think this group represents a decent opportunity to go through, I think it is a tough group and can see Algeria finishing bottom. Russialook a different proposition to previous years under Capello. Gone are the days when they had a squad full of players from Western Europe. This group almost all play in the strong Russian league, and that might be a good thing as Russia have seriously underperformed in recent World Cups. But it means Russia are tough side to figure out. This group could work out as a two horse race between the Russians and Koreans to qualify with Belgium. I'm surprised the bookies favour the Russians so strongly (1/2) and I think Korea may represent a little value to qualify at 15/8. Korea don't have the star names of Japan, or even previous Korea sides, but they have enough quality to be taken seriously by everyone in this group, they've experience of South and Central America and I think they could cause a small shock by getting through to the knockout.
Suggested Bets
Korea to qualify 15/8
Fireworks time...
Stage 16
PONTE DI LEGNO - VAL MARTELLO/MARTELLTAL
27th May 2014
139 KM - High Mountain
This is "only" 139km long but should be one of the best stages of the race. Three absolutely brutal climbs, which should also be taken extremely quickly because of the shortness of the stage. All three climbs are scary, but two of these climbs are monsters. 2,000 metres or more is where the air starts to thin, it becomes difficult to breathe, and people start to suffer. The Gavia is 2,600 and the Stelvio is nearly 2,800. These two climbs were cut from the race in 2013 due to bad conditions, not for the first time, but it should be raceable on Tuesday.
We start off at Ponte di Legno in Brescia, Lombardy and head north. After a short descent we start the first of the climbing immediately with the iconic and feared Gavia.
The Gavia is considered by some to be the hardest climb in Europe. Certainly in terms of altitude, length and average gradient of climb, it is at least the equal of anything else. The average gradient is 7.9%, it goes from 1258 metres at the base to 2621 metres at the summit. It reaches 16% in places, but it’s the last 3km, averaging 9% at the accompanying altitude will see some suffering.
In the 1988 Giro, only 90 seconds separated the top 7 in the GC when they took on the Gavia in horrendous, blizzard conditions. Johan Van Der Velde, the classy but mental Dutchman set off without gloves, arm or leg warmers or gilet. He would reach the summit before his pursuers Andy Hampsten and Erik Breukink, with everyone else trailing behind with bodies, breaks and gears all grinding to a halt in the sub-zero conditions.
Climbing the Gavia in those conditions is one thing, descending it is quite another. In his "Maglia Rosa, triumph and tragedy in the Giro d'Italia" Herbie Sykes says descending the Gavia in snow and ice is a horrific, unthinkable prospect. "Horribly steep, badly paved and full of craters, it's a racing cyclist's worst nightmare in the cold, let alone in sub-zero temperatures".
Van der Velde may have been a minute ahead at the summit but he stopped at the first hairpin in fear, and with the terror of that lottery of a descent lost 48 minutes (!) before the stage finish, 27km down the road in Bormio. The riders behind, many of them in tears from the climb now confonted their worst fears but the race director Torriani decreed the race would continue. Hampsten and Breukink slithered down as the snow turned to ice; Breukink took the stage and Hampsten the jersey. The existing maglia rosa Franco Chioccioli was inconsolable, the pre-race favourite Jean-Francois Bernard lost 9 minutes and Visentini, who had lost to Stephen Roche the year before, lost half an hour. The next day they were due to climb the Stelvio, but it was abandoned due to snow. Not even Torriani dared make the riders dice with death again.
The Gavia was due to be climbed again the following year and was deemed impassable due to snow. New race director Castellano had had enough. The conditions on the Gavia and the Stelvio were making a mockery of the race every year. They would no longer be climbed. The Giro did come back to the Gavia in 2008 when Emanuele Sella won the stage from Rovetta – Tirano, and the summit should be passable this year, but there has been a lot of work to get in it a state where it is raceable, and we will see 10 feet of snow on either side of the road.
After the Gavia we head further north to the Stevio pass on the Swiss border. The Stelvio is possibly the most historic climbs in all pro-cycling, and it’s a giant in every sense. The Stelvio is the second-highest paved road in the Alps, and the highest finish ever on any Grand Tour.
It’s worth noting that the Stelvio is the Cima Coppi, the highest point on the Giro, and mountain points are doubles over the summit of this climb. And so they should be. The Stelvio’s average gradient is 7.1% with a length of 21.5km, it’s 1533 metres from the bottom to the top, which is at 2758 metres above sea level. The last 10km of this climb are above 2,000 metres and the last 4km average 8%. This will put everyone in real trouble, and we could see some real gaps developing already.
In 2012 Thomas de Gendt wrote his name into Giro fokelore with his astonishing solo attack on the Stelvio, which would lead to him moving all the way up to 4th in the GC, which became 3rd when he made up more time in the next day’s TT. This huge climb, following on the footsteps of the Gavia will go a long way in deciding the stage winner and possibly the maglia rosa.
If those two beasts aren’t enough we finish on the Monte Martello. The Val Martello is a longer climb than the Stelvio at 22.3km. The good news for the weary riders is that the average gradient is not as steep as the previous two climbs, and the summit is not as high.
But there’s bad news too; by this point, oxygen deprivation at altitude and the sheer distance they’ve climbed will take its toll on the legs and the issue with this climb is that the gradient is not steady. There are several less steep sections, but there are also some horrible parts that go upto 20%. With about 5km to go there is a section that averages 12.5%, and although it flattens out and there is even a small descent, the last 1.5km average over 10%.
This is an absolutely brutal day, and only the strongest will survive. Nairo Quintana will see it as a day to recapture a big chunk of the time Rigoberto Uran has on him. Yesterday Aru and Rolland looked strong, and Uran made some time over his nearest rivals Evans, Pozzovivo and Majka. It’s difficult to know how a rest day will affect some of these guys. There is no super-strong team that will drive the peloton either, so a strong break could make it, but with this amount of climbing, and the fact that you can throw a blanket over the top 10 in terms of time gaps, means I think this will be fought out by the GC guys.
Accordingly, I make Nairo Quintana a worthwhile bet at 2/1. This is where he comes to the fore and tries to take control of the race. I think he has several things in his favour. Other than Uran he has more experience of competing for GC in big mountain stages in Grand Tours compared to other potential stage winners like Aru and Majka. He is probably well on the mend from his illness of week two. If we assume a linear recovery, then he should be in better shape on Tuesday than he was on either Saturday or Sunday. He’s also got experience at altitude on big stages, which will be crucial for this. I’ve got two others I want to back as well but I will leave them for now as I’m not happy with prices and I might get better.
Stage 16
PONTE DI LEGNO - VAL MARTELLO/MARTELLTAL
27th May 2014
139 KM - High Mountain
This is "only" 139km long but should be one of the best stages of the race. Three absolutely brutal climbs, which should also be taken extremely quickly because of the shortness of the stage. All three climbs are scary, but two of these climbs are monsters. 2,000 metres or more is where the air starts to thin, it becomes difficult to breathe, and people start to suffer. The Gavia is 2,600 and the Stelvio is nearly 2,800. These two climbs were cut from the race in 2013 due to bad conditions, not for the first time, but it should be raceable on Tuesday.
We start off at Ponte di Legno in Brescia, Lombardy and head north. After a short descent we start the first of the climbing immediately with the iconic and feared Gavia.
The Gavia is considered by some to be the hardest climb in Europe. Certainly in terms of altitude, length and average gradient of climb, it is at least the equal of anything else. The average gradient is 7.9%, it goes from 1258 metres at the base to 2621 metres at the summit. It reaches 16% in places, but it’s the last 3km, averaging 9% at the accompanying altitude will see some suffering.
In the 1988 Giro, only 90 seconds separated the top 7 in the GC when they took on the Gavia in horrendous, blizzard conditions. Johan Van Der Velde, the classy but mental Dutchman set off without gloves, arm or leg warmers or gilet. He would reach the summit before his pursuers Andy Hampsten and Erik Breukink, with everyone else trailing behind with bodies, breaks and gears all grinding to a halt in the sub-zero conditions.
Climbing the Gavia in those conditions is one thing, descending it is quite another. In his "Maglia Rosa, triumph and tragedy in the Giro d'Italia" Herbie Sykes says descending the Gavia in snow and ice is a horrific, unthinkable prospect. "Horribly steep, badly paved and full of craters, it's a racing cyclist's worst nightmare in the cold, let alone in sub-zero temperatures".
Van der Velde may have been a minute ahead at the summit but he stopped at the first hairpin in fear, and with the terror of that lottery of a descent lost 48 minutes (!) before the stage finish, 27km down the road in Bormio. The riders behind, many of them in tears from the climb now confonted their worst fears but the race director Torriani decreed the race would continue. Hampsten and Breukink slithered down as the snow turned to ice; Breukink took the stage and Hampsten the jersey. The existing maglia rosa Franco Chioccioli was inconsolable, the pre-race favourite Jean-Francois Bernard lost 9 minutes and Visentini, who had lost to Stephen Roche the year before, lost half an hour. The next day they were due to climb the Stelvio, but it was abandoned due to snow. Not even Torriani dared make the riders dice with death again.
The Gavia was due to be climbed again the following year and was deemed impassable due to snow. New race director Castellano had had enough. The conditions on the Gavia and the Stelvio were making a mockery of the race every year. They would no longer be climbed. The Giro did come back to the Gavia in 2008 when Emanuele Sella won the stage from Rovetta – Tirano, and the summit should be passable this year, but there has been a lot of work to get in it a state where it is raceable, and we will see 10 feet of snow on either side of the road.
After the Gavia we head further north to the Stevio pass on the Swiss border. The Stelvio is possibly the most historic climbs in all pro-cycling, and it’s a giant in every sense. The Stelvio is the second-highest paved road in the Alps, and the highest finish ever on any Grand Tour.
It’s worth noting that the Stelvio is the Cima Coppi, the highest point on the Giro, and mountain points are doubles over the summit of this climb. And so they should be. The Stelvio’s average gradient is 7.1% with a length of 21.5km, it’s 1533 metres from the bottom to the top, which is at 2758 metres above sea level. The last 10km of this climb are above 2,000 metres and the last 4km average 8%. This will put everyone in real trouble, and we could see some real gaps developing already.
In 2012 Thomas de Gendt wrote his name into Giro fokelore with his astonishing solo attack on the Stelvio, which would lead to him moving all the way up to 4th in the GC, which became 3rd when he made up more time in the next day’s TT. This huge climb, following on the footsteps of the Gavia will go a long way in deciding the stage winner and possibly the maglia rosa.
If those two beasts aren’t enough we finish on the Monte Martello. The Val Martello is a longer climb than the Stelvio at 22.3km. The good news for the weary riders is that the average gradient is not as steep as the previous two climbs, and the summit is not as high.
But there’s bad news too; by this point, oxygen deprivation at altitude and the sheer distance they’ve climbed will take its toll on the legs and the issue with this climb is that the gradient is not steady. There are several less steep sections, but there are also some horrible parts that go upto 20%. With about 5km to go there is a section that averages 12.5%, and although it flattens out and there is even a small descent, the last 1.5km average over 10%.
This is an absolutely brutal day, and only the strongest will survive. Nairo Quintana will see it as a day to recapture a big chunk of the time Rigoberto Uran has on him. Yesterday Aru and Rolland looked strong, and Uran made some time over his nearest rivals Evans, Pozzovivo and Majka. It’s difficult to know how a rest day will affect some of these guys. There is no super-strong team that will drive the peloton either, so a strong break could make it, but with this amount of climbing, and the fact that you can throw a blanket over the top 10 in terms of time gaps, means I think this will be fought out by the GC guys.
Accordingly, I make Nairo Quintana a worthwhile bet at 2/1. This is where he comes to the fore and tries to take control of the race. I think he has several things in his favour. Other than Uran he has more experience of competing for GC in big mountain stages in Grand Tours compared to other potential stage winners like Aru and Majka. He is probably well on the mend from his illness of week two. If we assume a linear recovery, then he should be in better shape on Tuesday than he was on either Saturday or Sunday. He’s also got experience at altitude on big stages, which will be crucial for this. I’ve got two others I want to back as well but I will leave them for now as I’m not happy with prices and I might get better.
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