I voted (of course) for Brazil, they got all the biggest stars and are the title holders. I see that some people question Brazils defensive capabilities, but I think they look strong with both Dida and Lucio, the latter which is a very underrated defender. Also famous back Roberto Carlos and Edmilson make a steady defense.
Other teams I consider as very strong are:
Italy - looked very impressive against a rather weak Germany. They were very effective, which is key in football today. They also have very good defenders and maybe the best goalie in the world.
Czeck Rep. - they have been an outsider in every tournament they've played in the later years and I think they will be strong this year as well. Their coach (Karel Brukner ?) is a mastermind, and they have strong offensive players. I'm not sure how Jan Koller is doing atm, but if he's in shape they will be very strong. They also have a extremly good keeper, which I rank second after Buffon. I would like to know if anyone can tell me if Pavel Nedved and Jan Koller is playing in the World Cup.
England - it's always hard to predict England, they often seem to have a good team, but they're always playing with so much pressure, which I think is their biggest weakness. I honestly dont think they'll win, but they may, as they have good players.
And so for the big disapointments:
Spain - always looking so strong, always doing so bad. I don't know why, but it seems like Spain never reach the expectations.
Argentina - a great nation in football history, which deserve to win again. However, I don't think their team is good enough to get past the round of 16.
Holland - they just seem to always do well in the qualifying, and then fail in the playoffs.
Finally I just want to say I think it's sad that Ireland didn't make it, as they look strong, and that Serbia & Montenegro might be a big surprise.
Other teams I consider as very strong are:
Italy - looked very impressive against a rather weak Germany. They were very effective, which is key in football today. They also have very good defenders and maybe the best goalie in the world.
Czeck Rep. - they have been an outsider in every tournament they've played in the later years and I think they will be strong this year as well. Their coach (Karel Brukner ?) is a mastermind, and they have strong offensive players. I'm not sure how Jan Koller is doing atm, but if he's in shape they will be very strong. They also have a extremly good keeper, which I rank second after Buffon. I would like to know if anyone can tell me if Pavel Nedved and Jan Koller is playing in the World Cup.
England - it's always hard to predict England, they often seem to have a good team, but they're always playing with so much pressure, which I think is their biggest weakness. I honestly dont think they'll win, but they may, as they have good players.
And so for the big disapointments:
Spain - always looking so strong, always doing so bad. I don't know why, but it seems like Spain never reach the expectations.
Argentina - a great nation in football history, which deserve to win again. However, I don't think their team is good enough to get past the round of 16.
Holland - they just seem to always do well in the qualifying, and then fail in the playoffs.
Finally I just want to say I think it's sad that Ireland didn't make it, as they look strong, and that Serbia & Montenegro might be a big surprise.
rofl: )
