CAPELLO’S RUSSIA TAKE ON BELGIUM’S GOLDEN GENERATION
Dark horses Belgium face comparative minnows Algeria to open Group H on 17 June, while Russia will have to be careful to avoid an upset against South Korea in a tie that could prove crucial if the Asian side are to progress from the group stage.

Match-day two sees Belgium, new to the world stage, take on the experienced Fabio Capello’s Russia at the Maracana in a tie that could decide who tops the group – although arguably potential round-of-16 opponents Germany and Portugal are equally intimidating. Meanwhile South Korea and Algeria face off in a tie that could see one of the two eliminated early.

On match-day 3 the two European sides will likely be competing to secure their passage to the round-of-16, but if previous rounds have gone their way either South Korea or Algeria could be poised to secure progression following a memorable upset.

ALAN DZAGOEV
Russia open their World Cup campaign against South Korea on the playmaker’s 24th birthday, but he started only four of their ten qualifying matches having suffered with injury earlier this season. He was Euro 2012’s joint top scorer with three goals, after he added to the four he netted during qualification, and his technical ability and clever play around the box could help his side break down tight defences.

EDEN HAZARD
The 23-year-old is still improving and impresses all over attack at Chelsea, where he moved from Lille after winning the 2011 Ligue 1 title along successive player of the season awards after striking 20 league goals the next year. He is able to combine with teammates around the box while dribbling at high-speed, and if he transfers his good finishing to Belgium he could add to his five international goals rapidly.

SON HEUNG-MIN
The versatile forward moved to Germany aged 16 and rose up through the Hamburg youth academy to score 12 Bundesliga goals last season before earning a move to Bayer Leverkusen, where he has featured across the front line. He has pace, dribbling ability and finishes well with either foot, and though he started just three games in qualifying he could make a big impact in Brazil.

SAPHIR TAIDER
The central midfielder displayed great stamina, composure and defensive awareness for such a young player at Bologna last season, earning him a move to Inter Milan. Born in France, he made himself available for selection by Algeria last year, and will be crucial for his side if they are to have much success in building on their solid defence to retain possession and construct moves going forward.

BELGIUM – LUKAKU BEARS BURDEN AFTER BENTEKE INJURY
Belgium failed to qualify for the World Cup since reaching six consecutive tournaments from 1982 to 2002. Nicknamed ‘war-pig’, current manager Marc Wilmots played in three where the attacking midfielder became their all-time top World Cup goalscorer. After retirement he served in the Belgian Senate, before he returned to the national team in 2009 as an assistant manager under Dick Advocaat.

They had lost five straight games in their World Cup 2010 qualifying group, and despite beating Turkey in their next they finished fourth. Advocaat soon became the third manager in two years to depart, and Georges Leekens restored stability but began their Euro 2012 group with defeats to Germany and then Turkey, who they again finished below. Wilmots then took over and finally capitalized on the talent of Belgium’s ‘Golden Generation’ to top Group A unbeaten.

Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois conceded just four goals behind captain Vincent Kompany in defence, where outstanding depth at centre-back masks a lack of natural full-backs that has moved Jan Vertonghen to the left. Ever-present Axel Witsel, skilful Moussa Dembele, giant Marouane Fellaini or versatile Nacer Chadli add further power in midfield.

Lone striker Christian Benteke’s Achilles tendon injury rocked preparations, but alongside the creativity of Eden Hazard and Kevin De Bruyne or the direct Dries Mertens and Kevin Mirallas, Romelu Lukaku is capable of leading the attack to glory on his own.

ALGERIA – FENNECS COACH REACHES WORLD CUP AT SECOND ATTEMPT
Vahid Halihodzic previously guided Ivory Coast to qualification for World Cup 2010, but after a disappointing defeat to Algeria in the quarter-finals of the 2010 Africa Cup of Nations he was dismissed and missed out on the chance to coach at a World Cup. He joined the side that beat him shortly after a humiliating 4-0 defeat away at neighbours Morocco in qualification AfCoN 2012, but they could not recover to reach the tournament.

Les Fennecs also suffered an early exit from the 2013 tournament after opening the group stage with two defeats, however this time Halilhodzic kept his job and he went on to win all their remaining matches in CAF second round qualifying to top Group H despite an previous defeat to Mali. Algeria qualified for their second consecutive World Cup by defeating AfCoN 2013 finalists Burkina Faso in a nervy playoff decided on away goals, after Madjid Bougherra netted the only goal of the game in the first leg at home before his side held on for a 3-2 defeat in the second leg.

The North African side conceded just two goals and held England to a 0-0 draw at the 2010 World Cup in performances that the experienced Bougherra, his centre-back partner Carl Medjani, and powerful midfielder Hassan Yebda will attempt to repeat. They failed to score however and powerful striker Islam Slimani, their five-goal top scorer with in qualifying, along with the pacey Sofiane Feghouli and playmaker Saphir Taider will hope to improve this year in attack.

RUSSIA – CAPELLO LEADS GIANTS BACK AFTER WORLD CUP ABSENCE
Russia had failed to reach the knock-out stages of a major tournament since a new football federation for was created in place of the USSR’s, but at Euro 2008 manager Guus Hiddink and playmaker Andrei Arshavin led a run to a semi-final exit to eventual winners Spain. Hiddink then resigned after a shock play-off defeat on away goals to Slovenia saw them miss out on their second consecutive World Cup, and while Dick Advocaat saw qualification as group winners for Euro 2012, they were eliminated at the group stage and he too resigned.

While Arshavin apologised after he was stripped of the captaincy following controversial comments on his side’s failure, legendary new manager Fabio Capello fielded him for less than 45 minutes in his first friendly in charge before omitting him entirely from qualification.

A CSKA Moscow based defence of goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev and centre-backs Vasili Berezutsky and Sergei Ignashevich let in just five goals as a strong start helped Russia top Group F despite defeats away to rivals Portugal and then Northern Ireland.

Creative Roman Shirokov (now ruled out through injury), versatile Viktor Faizulin and fiery Igor Denisov provide experience in central midfield and combine well on the counter-attack with their former teammates at Zenit St Petersburg, pacey winger Vladimir Bystrov and striker Aleksandr Kerzhakov. Forward Alexandr Kokorin and versatile Alan Dzagoev also pose a goal threat, and the Italian’s immense pedigree could make the difference.

SOUTH KOREA – 2002 CAPTAIN TAKES CHARGE AFTER CLOSE-RUN QUALIFICATION
Until reaching the semi-finals as a host nation in 2002 South Korea had won a single match in four successive prior finals appearances. They also reached the round-of-16 in 2010, but qualification for this year’s tournament proved very difficult. Manager Cho Kwang-Rae was fired after a 2-1 loss to Lebanon in the AFC third round group stage left progression down to the final round, when newly appointed Choi Kang-Hee won 2-0 at home to Kuwait to send them through to the fourth round.

A 1-0 defeat in Iran was followed by controversy after Choi complained about the facilities provided ahead of the match. And despite a home win 1-0 over Uzbekistan in their penultimate match, a draw in their previous game away in Lebanon meant progression from the group stage was decided on the final day. His side were again beaten 1-0 by table-topping Iran while Uzbekistan thrashed Qatar 5-1, and the Taegeuk Warriors avoided by a single goal an Asian play-off against Jordan followed by an inter-continental play-off against Uruguay.

Choi stepped down and in came 2002 captain Hong Myung-Bo who inherited a young side beginning to emerge in Europe, including centre-back Hong Jeong-Ho, left-back Park Joo-Ho in defence, midfielders Ki Sung-Yueng, Lee Chung-Yong , and Kim Bo-Kyung in England and goalscoring Koo Ja-Cheol in Germany. Experienced striker Park Chu-Young has lacked playing time, but versatile attackers Ji Dong-Won and Son Heung-Min could more than compensate.

European giants clash as USA face familiar opponents
The group opens on 16 June at the newly constructed Arena Fonte Nova in Salvador, as Germany take on fellow Europeans Portugal in one of the most exciting ties of the group stage. The USA face Ghana, who helped knocked them out of both the 2010 and 2006 World Cup, at the round-of-16 and group stages respectively, in a tie that would give the winning side a great chance of progression.

Match-day 2 sees Portugal face the USA in the humid atmosphere of the Arena Amazonia in Manaus, while Germany play in the heat of Fortaleza against Ghana, who they beat in the 2010 group stages, as each team hopes to build on their opening day result.

Depending on previous results any of the sides could face a decider on match-day 3, when Jurgen Klinsmann will face his former Germany players with the USA while Portugal face Ghana in capital city Brasilia.

The Players

Thomas Müller
The forward collected the Golden Boot aged just 20-years-old at the 2010 World Cup, recording five goals and three assists as Germany reached the semi-finals. He has since featured across Bayern Munich’s attack as his side reached three of the last four Champions League finals, and his exceptional stamina, awareness and finishing ability could deliver victory to Germany in tight games.

Cristiano Ronaldo
The Real Madrid forward missed out on last year’s La Liga title to Barcelona, however this season he finally won his personal contest with Lionel Messi for the Ballon D’Or and was named the best player in the world. His combination of pace and power is supreme on the counter, while he offers a goal threat both in the air and anywhere around the box with either foot, proving so with four goals in Portugal’s play-off with Sweden. But the attacker goes into the tournament having been unable to recover fully from ongoing tendinosis. How will his fitness be impaired?

Kwadwo Asamoah
The left-sided 25-year-old made his name at Udinese in central midfield, where he features for the national team, before moving to Juventus in 2012 and playing at left wing-back in a 3-5-2 system as his new side won the Serie A title. He offers pace, power, stamina, and ability in both attack and defence, and has collected the Football Association of Ghana’s player of the year award for the second year running.

Clint Dempsey
The midfielder struck 23 goals in his sixth and final season with Fulham, with whom he reached the 2010 Europa League final, earning a move to Tottenham in 2012 where he again reached double figures with 12 before he returned to MLS last summer. He was the USA’s top scorer in qualifying after with eight goals, and his aerial prowess and finishing ability should help convert the chances created in Brazil.

Germany – Nationalmannschaft aim to surpass recent semi-finals
Germany have reached at least the semi-finals in each of their last four major tournaments, while domestic league and cup champions Bayern Munich won the Champions League last year. However their squad depth in attack masks uncertainty over their starting XI, while the South American sides have home advantage.

They qualified unbeaten from UEFA qualifying Group C, but their concession of a 4-0 lead at home to Sweden to draw 4-4 hinted at fragility in a defence that lacks agility, for all the accomplishments of favoured duo Per Mertesacker and Jerome Boateng or Dortmund sweeper Mats Hummels. Marcel Schmelzer has settled into the left-back slot but captain and right-back Phillip Lahm has played in midfield this season for Bayern. Bastian Schweinsteiger’s regular central midfield partner Sami Khedira is out with a long-term injury, as is Dortmund playmaker Ilkay Gundogan, though each might recover in time.

Manager Joachim Low faces a difficult task choosing an attacking combination between regular playmaker and top qualifying goalscorer Mesut Ozil, Bayern’s Toni Kroos, Mario Gotze and Thomas Muller, Julian Draxler, Andre Schurrle or Lukas Podolski. Direct wide forward Marco Reus had been in superb form but he was ruled out through injury shortly before the tournament began.

He has even begun playing without a conventional striker given joint record goalscorer Miroslav Klose’s age (35), and Mario Gomez’s lack of playing time that saw him dropped from the squad, but if he gets his players performing collectively Germany are strong contenders for a fourth World Cup. Will the Nationalmannschaft be able to apply their intense and energetic playing style in such a hot climate?

Portugal – Hopes hinge on Ballon D’Or winner Ronaldo
A Selecao were defeated by Spain in both World Cup 2010 and Euro 2012, with their Iberian neighbours going on to win the trophy on each occasion. Former international player Paulo Bento took over during qualification for the latter after manager Carlos Queiroz departed following a poor opening two matches. However qualifying for this year’s tournament also proved difficult as Portugal lost 1-0 away in Russia and required late goals to avoid further defeats in the next two matches, at home to Northern Ireland and away in Israel. His side dropped two more points after Israel’s late equalizer in Lisbon and Russia finished top of UEFA qualifying Group F.

This meant qualification depended on victory in a challenging two-legged play-off tie against an experienced Sweden side dominated by Zlatan Ibrahimovic. However, this proved comfortable after captain Cristiano Ronaldo netted the only goal in the home leg followed by a hat-trick away in Sweden to record a 4-2 aggregate victory.

Bento has assembled a settled side ahead of goalkeeper Rui Patricio, with right-back Joao Pereira and left-back Fabio Coentrao either side of powerful centre-backs Bruno Alves and Pepe. Miguel Veloso sits at the base of midfield behind tireless pair Joao Moutinho and Raul Meireles, as striker Helder Postiga is flanked by wide forwards Nani and Ronaldo. The team has struggled to break down tight defences, but if Ronaldo hits top form they will not be beaten.

Ghana – Black Stars look to recover from heartbreak
Ghana missed out on the chance of becoming the first African nation to reach a World Cup semi-final in 2010 when Luis Suarez’s handball stopped a goal-bound header late in their quarter-final tie against Uruguay. Striker Asamoah Gyan missed the resulting penalty, and despite his successful spot kick after extra time, his side were defeated.

Gyan went onto miss another penalty as his side lost 1-0 to eventual winners Zambia in their 2012 Africa Cup of Nations semi-final, and Ghana also began their World Cup qualifying campaign with disappointment in a 1-0 away defeat to the same opponents. At the 2013 AfCoN they were also upset at the semi-final stage, this time by Burkina Faso on penalties.

However, manager Kwesi Appiah led Ghana to victory in the rest of their CAF Qualifying group D games while Zambia dropped points, and a 2-0 win in the return leg saw the Black Stars top the table and reach the play-offs. Drawn against Egypt they dominated the home leg winning 6-1 to reach the World Cup despite a 2-1 defeat in the return leg in Cairo, in which midfielder Kevin-Prince Boateng scored to mark his return to international football.

Michael Essien also returned after trouble with injury to join Kwadwo Asamoah and Sulley Muntari in a midfield full of Serie A experience. In attack Marseille’s powerful Andre Ayew joins Gyan who netted six goals from six qualifying games, and the Black Stars now have a big chance to upset their European rivals.

USA – Coach Klinsmann drawn against his former players
In 1994 the USA hosted the World Cup and reached the round-of-16 before losing 1-0 to eventual winners Brazil, who now host the tournament on its return to the Americas 20 years later.

Team USA reached the round-of-16 stages of the 2010 tournament before an extra time defeat to Ghana, and a year later former Germany manager Jurgen Klinsmann took over from Bob Bradley who departed after losing the 2011 CONCACAF Gold Cup final to Mexico.

He began with four defeats from six games, but results improved and his side advanced from their CONCACAF Third round qualifying Group A as winners despite a 2-1 defeat away in Jamaica. The USA also topped the six-team table in the Fourth round despite away defeats in Honduras and Costa Rica, after winning their five home games with no goals conceded and finishing with a late 3-2 win away at Panama that helped Mexico qualify. Mid-way through qualification they also won a friendly 4-3 against Group G rivals Germany, as well as all six matches on their way to winning the 2013 Gold Cup.

Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard and Stoke’s Geoff Cameron add experience to an unsettled defence while accomplished goalscorer Clint Dempsey supports the powerful Jozy Altidore in attack. Centre-midfielders Michael Bradley and Jermaine Jones, formerly of Roma and Schalke respectively, add both athleticsm and technical ability across the park, and could help Team USA upset more fancied opponents.

Inexperienced sides face giants of Argentina & Nigeria

Argentina face World Cup debutants Bosnia to open Group F on 15 June in the Maracana, where the final will be held, while Iran take on Nigeria a day later in a tie in which avoiding defeat could prove crucial if the Asian side are to avoid early elimination.

They next face Argentina on match-day two, where the South Americans will be heavy favourites to win. The other tie pits Nigeria against Bosnia in the newly-constructed Arena Pantanal in Cuiaba, which could go a long way to deciding which team makes it out of the group.

Nigeria will hope to have secured progression by the final match-day on which they face Argentina. If either has not, it could be a tense atmosphere in the Estadio Beira-Rio in Porto Alegre near the Argentine border. Meanwhile Bosnia will face Iran in what could prove each side’s final match.

The Players

Lionel Messi
The forward has now scored over 50 goals for Barcelona in each of his last three full seasons from his ‘false 9’ central attacking position, and he has begun to transfer his club form to the national side. Amid an injury-hit season Cristiano Ronaldo thwarted his bid for a fourth consecutive Ballon D’Or, but this summer he could match Argentine legend Diego Maradona by lifting the World Cup in Latin America.

Edin Dzeko
The tall, powerful striker scored 26 league goals ahead of his Bosnia-Herzegovina teammate Zvjezdan Misimovic as Wolfsburg won the Bundesliga in 2009. He has often been forced to contribute from the bench since moving to Manchester City in 2011 but he has still netted over 10 Premier League goals in each of the last three seasons and he offers creativity, aerial prowess, and powerful shot with either foot.

Vincent Enyeama
The Nigeria captain made his debut aged just 19 at the 2002 World Cup, and his good form for Lille this season helped the French side to a run of 11 consecutive clean sheets. At just 1.82m tall he is short for a goalkeeper but his powerful leap allows him to command his area and showcase his fearsome shot-stopping ability, as he did in a man-of-the-match display against group rivals Argentina at the last World Cup.

Javad Nekounam
The central midfielder made his debut for the national team in 2000 and following his impressive performances at the 2006 World Cup he spent six seasons in La Liga with Osasuna in Spain. The 33-year-old’s experience will be crucial in protecting Iran’s defence in Brazil, while his passing range and shooting ability, as demonstrated by his six goals during qualification, will be key going forward.

Argentina – Messi’s chance to be the new Maradona
La Albiceleste have failed to reach the semi-finals in their last five World Cups. However, with the tournament returning to South America for the first time since their 1978 victory on home soil, they come under considerable pressure to improve.

After a 4-0 defeat in in South Africa meant Argentina exited to Germany at the quarter-finals of their second consecutive World Cup, they exited the 2011 Copa America at the same stage on penalties to Uruguay prompting the departure of 1986 World Cup winner Sergio Batista. New manager Alejandro Sabella’s CONMEBOL qualifying campaign started poorly with a 1-0 defeat away to Venezuela in just their second group match, however his side then went 13 matches unbeaten to finish first in the league table despite defeat away at Uruguay in their final match.

In defence the manager has allowed Federico Fernandez and Ezequiel Garay to form a stable centre-back partnership alongside consistent right-back Pablo Zabaleta and goalkeeper Sergio Romero. In attack, Juventus’ Carlos Tevez is yet to make an appearance under his tenure while Messi was made captain and allowed a flexible role to the right of strikers Sergio Aguero and Gonzalo Higuain in attack.

With left-sided Angel Di Maria complementing anchorman Javier Mascherano and playmaker Fernando Gago in midfield, the Barcelona star began to show his club form and struck 10 goals in qualifying. If he can do so in Brazil his team will be unbeatable.

Bosnia-Herzegovina – Former player leads nation to debut tournament
The Dragons only began competing internationally in the race for 1998 World Cup qualification, but the national team provides an important source of unity for the young nation and improved quickly to reach the UEFA qualifying play-offs for both the World Cup 2010 and Euro 2012. They suffered the misfortune however of being drawn against Portugal on both occasions, and first under Miroslav Blazevic, then under new manager Safet Susic, the Balkan nation were unable to advance despite competitive first legs on each occasion.

Susic had starred in attack for Paris Saint-Germain in the 1980s and reached the 1990 World Cup quarter-finals with Yugoslavia before defeat to finalists Argentina on penalties. He finally secured a return to the tournament by topping UEFA Group G on goal difference ahead of Greece, although a disappointing defeat at home to Slovakia however meant this required a late winner from striker Vedad Ibisevic in their final qualifying match away in Lithuania.

He played a confident style of football that allowed playmakers Miralem Pjanic and Zvjezdan Misimovic as well as each of left-sided duo Sejad Salihovic and Senad Lulic to attack. Strike partnership Edin Dzeko and Ibisevic struck 10 and 8 respectively as his side netted 30 goals during qualification, but the lack of a settled defence could place heavy responsibility on experienced centre-back Emir Spahic and goalkeeper Asmir Begovic in Brazil.

Nigeria – Keshi’s return raises tournament hopes
Manager Stephen Keshi played in defence as Nigeria won the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations, and later that year topped their group in their first ever World Cup before losing in the round-of-16 to eventual finalists Italy. Their promising and youthful group of players went on to win the 1996 Olympic title but could do no better in either tournament until Keshi’s return to manage the side in 2011.

The manager’s bold decision to leave experienced strikers Peter Odemwingie and Obafemi Martinsout of the squad for the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations and select several younger, home-based players was vindicated as his side began the group stage with two draws but grew throughout the tournament to collect the trophy with memorable wins over Ivory Coast, Mali and Burkina Faso in the knock-out rounds. Ahead of captain Vincent Enyeama, a defence of Efe Ambrose, Kenneth Omeruo, Godfrey Oboabona, and newly-signed Monaco left-back Elderson was ably protected by Jon Obi Mikel, Ogenyi Onazi and Sunday Mba in midfield.

The solid defensive platform supports the pace of a combination of Victor Moses, Ahmed Musa, Brown Ideye or Emmanuel Emenike in attack. Although the West African side opened their World Cup qualification campaign with three draws from five starts in the group stage, they settled their nerves to defeat Ethiopia in a qualification playoff. The Super Eagles could prove be an awkward opponent for any side they face at the World Cup.

Iran – Worldly manager leads inexperienced side
Iran collected just two wins from ten games to finish fourth in their last AFC fourth qualifying round, failing to reach the 2010 World Cup after political instability and the departure of legendary former national team striker Ali Daei proved a distraction. After another disappointing display at the 2011 Asian Cup, former Manchester United and Real Madrid coach Carlos Queiroz was appointed, bringing to the role his track record of leading Portugal and South Africa to the World Cup.

He was without experienced attackers Vahid Hashemian and Mehdi Mahdavikia, but his side navigated the third AFC qualifying round undefeated and also finished top of their fourth round group. Inconsistent displays saw his side drop points against Qatar, Lebanon and Uzbekistan, though they completed a 1-0 double against second-placed South Korea. The two games were mired in controversy after the South Korea coach complained about facilities provided for their match in Iran, but striker Reza Ghoochannejhad’s goal decided the return tie.

Ghoochannejhad scored nine in his first 11 games with Team Melli earning a move from Standard Liege to Charlton, but captain Javad Nekounam finished top scorer in qualifying from central midfield with six goals. Despite the experience of winger Ashkan Dejagah and former Bayern Munich attacker Ali Karimi, centre-back Jalal Hosseini leads a back line low on experience outside Iran and the defence may struggle.

Switzerland and France might be considered favourites to progress but on 15 June, each open their tournaments against sides much more acclimatized to South American heat and humidity in Ecuador and Honduras.

Match-day two sees France take on European neighbours Switzerland in the heat of Salvador in a tie which could help decide the group winner or put one of the two out of contention, while Ecuador face Honduras and their former manager Luis Fernando Suarez in a game which could rule out qualification for one of the two.

The last match day sees France take on Ecuador, while Switzerland meet Honduras with their failure to beat the central American side having led to their elimination at the group stage in 2010. The games will determine who advances to the knock-out stages, and who must face a likely last-16 tie against giants Argentina.

The Players

Xherdan Shaqiri
The versatile left-footed attacker made his debut at 17 years old for Basel, who he helped to three consecutive league titles and a memorable 2011-12 Champions League campaign in which he set up both goals to knock Manchester United out at the group stage. His explosive displays earned a move to Bayern Munich in 2012, and his quick feet and powerful shooting make him Switzerland’s biggest threat.

Franck Ribery
The creative winger was France’s top scorer in qualifying with five goals, and also finished in third place in the 2013 Ballon D’Or after a a treble winning 2012-13 campaign with Bayern Munich. The 31-year-old played in France’s 2006 World Cup final defeat and apologized in the aftermath of the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. This tournament could have represented his last chance at international success, but he was sadly ruled out by injury shortly before the tournament started.

Antonio Valencia
The powerful right-winger made his Ecuador debut at age 19 and following his impressive performances at the 2006 World Cup he became a Premier League regular with Wigan. He collected two Premier League titles after a move to Manchester United, where his consistent displays saw him deployed at right-back as well as in attack. His ability on the counter makes the captain key to his side’s chances.

Emilio Izaguirre
The attacking left-back signed for Celtic in 2010 and collected multiple player of the season awards in his first season in Scotland before he suffered a broken ankle early in the next season. He recovered however to collect three successive SPL titles with the Glasgow giants, and his pace, energy, crossing and dribbling ability down the left flank will be a key feature of Honduras’ play.

Switzerland – Hitzfeld’s last Hurrah
Experienced manager Ottmar Hitzfeld had won Champions League titles with Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich before taking charge after Switzerland finished bottom of their group as one of the Euro 2008 host nations. He swiftly set about tightening their defence and his side reached World Cup 2010 and beat eventual champions Spain 1-0 in their opening match, but then collected one point from their next two matches. La Nati then failed to qualify for Euro 2012 as England topped their qualifying group and Montenegro beat them to the play-off spot, prompting strikers Alexander Frei and Marco Streller to retire from international football.

However, his side went on to take advantage of a welcoming UEFA Group E to qualify for the World Cup unbeaten in ten fixtures. Former Basel youth trio Valentin Stocker, Granit Xhaka, now of Borussia Moenchengladbach, and Bayern Munich’s Xherdan Shaqiri emerged in attack behind lone striker Haris Seferovic. Wolfsburg goalkeeper Diego Benaglio and experienced centre-backs Steve Von Bergen and Johan Djourou are protected by Napoli midfielders Gokhan Inler and Valon Behrami, providing a powerful foundation for left-back Ricardo Rodriguez and Juventus’ twice Serie A-winning right-back Stephan Lichtsteiner to attack.

Hitzfeld will hope this combination helps him bow out with success before he retires from coaching with Lazio manager Vladimir Petkovic taking over.

Ecuador – United through Chucho tragedy
Ecuador failed to qualify for the 2010 World Cup having made it to the previous two tournaments. However after the appointment of Colombian manager Reinaldo Ruena they won six of their first ten matches in the CONMEBOL qualifying tournament and went on to qualify in fourth place. Key to qualification was their imperious home form consisting of seven victories and a 1-1 draw against table-topping Argentina. Away from the high altitude of their home stadium in capital Quito however La Tri gained just three draws and failed to win a qualifying match.

Their achievements in qualification were however overshadowed by the tragic death of Cristian ‘Chucho’ Benitez in July 2013 at the age of 27 after a sudden illness. The forward contributed four goals during qualifying and had made 58 appearances for the national team, and the Ecuadorian Football Association subsequently decided to retire the number 11 football shirt.

The squad will rely heavily on well-travelled striker Felipe Caicedo, their seven-goal top scorer in qualification, who will be supported by holding midfielder Segundo Castillo, Dynamo Moscow playmaker Christian Noboa, and wingers Jefferson Montero and Antonio Valencia of Manchester United. The side has little experience outside Latin America to draw on at the World stage, but their familiarity with the continent could prove to their advantage.

France – Les Bleus take confidence from difficult qualification
A shocking display of disunity at the World Cup 2010 in South Africa saw the expulsion of Nicolas Anelka from the training camp following a reported dispute with manager Raymond Domenech result in a boycott of training by the players, and, ultimately, the suspension of the entire squad for at least one match by the France Football Federation. Laurent Blanc was appointed in the aftermath and took the team to the quarter-finals of Euro 2012, before he stood down and was replaced by fellow 1998 World Cup winner Didier Deschamps.

Reaching the finals became difficult after Les Bleus were placed in UEFA Group I with Spain, and despite holding the World Cup holders to a draw in Madrid, a defeat in the return match at home forced them into a play-off against Ukraine in order to qualify. A 2-0 defeat in Kyiv meant hopes of World Cup qualification were subdued. However the introduction of centre-backs Raphael Varane and Mamadou Sakho, midfielders Yohan Cabaye and Mathieu Valbuena and Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema led to a convincing 3-0 home victory and qualification.

While the defence alongside goalkeeper Hugo Lloris and left-back Patrice Evra has been unsettled and Bayern Munich’s Franck Ribery was ruled out by injury, the dynamic midfield pairing of Paul Pogba and Blaise Matuidi and the array of creative attackers led by Champions League-winning Benzema suggest their performance in Brazil could put to rest bad memories of their South Africa campaign.

Honduras – Catrachos reach consecutive finals for first time
The central American side were eliminated in the group stages of the 2010 tournament in South Africa but finished on a high with a draw against Switzerland. Colombian manager Luis Fernando Suarez was able to lead them back however, having previously taken group rivals Ecuador to the last 16 of the 2006. He also masterminded a win over Spain at the London 2012 Olympics.

Given automatic entry to the third CONCACAF qualifying round, their campaign started with a 2-0 home defeat to Panama. However after going five matches unbeaten they topped Group C after an 8-1 home victory over Canada with hat-tricks for both strikers Jerry Bengtson and Carlo Costly. The tall duo also went on to finish joint top goalscorers with four each in the fourth CONCACAF qualifying round, which Los Catrachos opened with a 2-1 home win over the USA. They went through the six-team group stage unbeaten at home to finish third in the table, pushing Mexico towards a qualifying play-off after coming back from a goal down to win 2-1 a crucial tie away in Mexico City.

Experienced defender Maynor Figueroa plays alongside former Anderlecht centre-back Victor Bernardez for the national team, with Celtic’s Emilio Izaguirre on the left of defence. Central midfielders Wilson Palacios and Roger Espinoza also bring Premier League experience to the minnows, who will be pleased to qualify rather than pressured to succeed in the summer.

GROUP D
THREE FORMER WORLD CUP WINNERS COMPETE FOR TWO KNOCKOUT SPOTS
Uruguay start the group as favourites against fellow Latin Americans Costa Rica in the heat of Brazils north coast in Fortaleza on 14 June, while European giants England and Italy face off in the humidity of Manaus later that day in a tie that could dictate the tournament fortunes of either side.

On 19 June the Three Lions are next called into action against Uruguay in a match were a second defeat would end the World Cup dream, while a day later Italy face Costa Rica and will hope to collect a win to boost their chances of escaping the group.

Match-day three sees Italy take on Uruguay in what could be a decisive match in either the race to top the table or to stay in qualification, while England look to either collect the points they need to progress or end the tournament with pride after an early exit.

WAYNE ROONEY
The versatile striker was awarded a bumper new contract at Manchester United, although Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement preceded disappointing league form under his former Everton manager David Moyes. Still just 28 he has starred for the Three Lions for over a decade but has struggled at major tournaments since limping off injured at Euro 2004, and he failed to score in both the 2006 and 2010 World Cups.

LUIS SUAREZ
Despite controversial behavior in each of the last two seasons and his transfer request last summer, the striker has improved with every season since joining Liverpool from Ajax mid-season in 2011. His unique combination of power, agility, eye for goal and unceasing energy mean he has succeeded Diego Forlan as the spearhead for his country, with whom he faces club strike partner Daniel Sturridge this summer.

BRYAN RUIZ
Fulham signed the forward in 2011 for £10.6 million after impressive Champions League displays for Twente Enschede, but his languid style did not seem to suit England and he was loaned out to PSV Eindhoven in January, where he plays in support of a central striker in an attacking trio. His cultured left-foot will be key if Costa Rica are to unlock their experienced opponents’ tight defences.

MARIO BALOTELLI
The talented striker left treble-winning Inter Milan for Manchester City where he won the Premier League title, despite his colourful behavior off the pitch, before he left for AC Milan, who he helped qualify for the Champions League in his first season. While he was unable to prevent their form collapsing this term, he is tall, quick, creative and has excellent finishing instincts despite his inconsistency.
URUGUAY
SUAREZ SHINES AMID FADING COPA AMERICA WINNERS
Uruguay reached the semi-finals of the last World Cup in 2010 after a controversial quarter-final win over Ghana on penalties, with their opponents missing the penalty late in normal time that followed when Luis Suarez’s handball stopped a goal-bound header. A year later they won the 2011 Copa America, knocking out Argentina on penalties in the quarter-finals before collecting the trophy with a 3-0 win over Paraguay in the final.

Manager Oscar Tabarez’s side had aimed to keep a solid defence and attack mainly through the prowess on the counter of strikers Suarez, Edinson Cavani and Diego Forlan. They switched between a back three and a back four depending on the opposition, making use of versatile wing-backs Maxi Pereira and Alvaro Pereira on the fight and left respectively. However despite Diego Godin’s good form, his captain and fellow centre-back Diego Lugano is 33 and has lost pace, leaving regular central midfielders Egidio Arevalo Rios and Diego Perez, also over 30, with more ground to cover.

Suarez struck 11 goals to finish top scorer in the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying table, but La Celeste lost five of their eight matches away from home to finish fifth in the table, meaning they required an inter-continental play-off against Jordan to qualify.

The Copa America holders rely increasingly on Cavani and Suarez up front, but the duo could prove capable of winning games on their own.

COSTA RICA
LATIN MINNOWS FACE FORMER WORLD CUP WINNERS
Los Ticos missed out on qualification for the 2010 World Cup after finishing fourth behind Honduras on goal difference the CONCACAF Fourth qualifying table meant they faced Uruguay in an inter-continental play-off, in which they were beaten by the eventual semi-finalists.

This time round new manager Jorge Luis Pinto, who had been dismissed during Costa Rica’s 2006 qualifying campaign despite its eventual success, made sure of their progression. His side secured passage through the Third round group stage behind Mexico following their 1-0 win away in El Salvador, but they were much convincing in the Fourth round where they qualified in second place in the table after wins in all five home games. Goalkeeper Keylor Navas built on his form with high-flying La Liga side Levante to concede just seven goals, the lowest tally in that group, despite having defence lacking experience on the World stage.

While left-sided Bryan Oviedo suffered a broken leg earlier this season, winger Christian Bolanos offers pace on the right flank. Powerful MLS striker Alvaro Saborio finished their top scorer with eight goals and he will be ably supported by the creative Bryan Ruiz as well as promising young forward Joel Campbell. A strike from the Arsenal-owned forward while on loan at Olympiakos left English giants Manchester United reeling before they recovered to progress in the home second leg of their Champions League tie, but their group rivals might not get a second chance this summer.

ITALY
AZZURRI LOOK TO BUILD ON RECENT SUCCESS
Italy won the 2006 World Cup under manager Marcello Lippi but after he was rehired after a Euro 2008 quarter-final exit to Spain, his side flopped at World Cup 2010 finishing bottom of their Group. Fiorentina’s Cesare Prandelli was appointed in his place and he has restored confidence to the side over the past four years.

They finished as runners-up in Euro 2012 after defeating first England on penalties and then Germany 2-0, before a losing the final 4-0 to world champions Spain. At the 2013 Confederations Cup they collected thrilling wins over Mexico and Japan before defeat to hosts Brazil set up a semi-final against Spain once again, and though they lost, the scoreline was much closer as a penalty shoot-out was needed to separate the two. Although the Azzurri drew four of their ten Group B games in qualification for World Cup 2014, their passage was comfortable and they qualified unbeaten at the top of the table.

Prandelli has experimented with both a back four and the back three used by Serie A champions Juventus alongside their goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon and deep-lying playmaker Andrea Pirlo, who each played a key role in the 2006 triumph. Further forward the coach faces a difficult choice of players from his talented and deep squad, although five-goal top scorer in qualifying Mario Balotelli’s combination of athletic and technical abilities is unique within the squad and he is likely to feature heavily if Italy are to succeed.

Colombia qualified for their first World Cup since 1998 after finishing in second place in the CONMEBOL qualifying table, with Radamel Falcao scoring 9 goals in 13. Shortly before the tournament he was finally ruled unable to recover from a knee injury suffered mid-way through the season, leaving the side without his outstanding heading and finishing ability and required to field a replacement from among the outstanding attacking talent at his disposal.

The Monaco striker had been regularly partnered by the intelligent movement of Teofilo Gutierrez, and the side have great further depth in the position with Sevilla’s Europa League-winning Carlos Bacca, the versatile Adrian Ramos, and Porto’s Jackson Martinez each netting over a dozen goals in the Spanish, German and Portuguese leagues respectively.

Talented playmaker James Rodriguez gets freedom to roam across the pitch and each flank contains extreme pace, with the tricky Juan Cuadrado on the right ahead of Juan Zuniga and his fellow pacey wing-back Pablo Armero on the left. To allow the full-backs forward former Argentina manager Jose Pekerman has often omitted the dynamic Fredy Guarin and used the more restrained Abel Aguilar alongside a defensive anchor-man in central midfield.

With the full-backs used as attacking players, the inconsistent Cristian Zapata and 37-year-old Mario Yepes at centre-back may however need that protection, and the side’s ability to provide it could be sorely tested in later rounds.

Ivory Coast were expected to win an African Cup of Nations for several years but consistently disappointed, while in consecutive World Cups they were given extremely challenging groups they proved unable to overcome.

Their Golden Generation has finally been placed in a winnable group, but sadly talismanic striker Didier Drogba and previously formidable centre-back Kolo Toure have declined physically since their peak.

Swansea striker Wilfried Bony and Roma winger Gervinho however each scored double figures last season, with midfielder Yaya Toure netting 20 as Manchester City won the Premier League. The Champions League winning midfielder is finally being played in the attacking role that makes most of his athleticism, shooting and passing ability.

But the defence enters the tournament with little quality or familiarity of selection, and places heavy responsibility on the attack to outscore the opposition.

Greece finished level on points with Bosnia in qualifying Group G but their inferior goal difference saw them require a win in the resulting play-off, having scored just 12 goals in their 10 group games. Three goals from Kostas Mitroglou helped them beat Romania 4-1 on aggregate to secure a place in the final, but the striker has struggled for fitness and form since joining relegated Premier League side Fulham from Greek title-holders Olympiakos.

Fernando Santos’s cautious side will therefore struggle to threaten in attack. All-action full-backs Jose Holebas on the left and Vasilis Torosidis on the right are encouraged forward but most of the other players focus on helping the defence, including striker Giorgos Samaras whose dribbling ability and height make him ideally suited to holding the ball up to relieve pressure.

But a similar side upset Russia to reach the quarter-finals of Euro 2012, and Midfield anchor-man Kostas Katsouranis and playmaker Giorgos Karagounis were cornerstones of Otto Rehhagel’s legendary Euro 2004-winning underdog side. This side look like they will also need considerable luck to collect positive results.

Japan manager Alberto Zaccheroni boasts a collection of gifted players across the pitch. However, a comfortable Asian qualifying campaign did not test their goalkeeper and centre-back pairing, and weakness in the air could undo all the achievements of their excellent attacking play.

Full-backs Atsuto Uchida and Yuto Nagatomo are tireless in support of attacking midfielders Shinji Kagawa, Keisuke Honda and Shinji Okazaki, and each of the five have impressed in Europe with their pace and technical ability. Yashuito Endo and Makoto Hasebe link them together well, but the side lack a commanding central striker and their possession play can generate little end product.

At the Confederations Cup their strong performances did not lead to results however, and despite scoring three against Italy their weakness at either end of the pitch saw them beaten 4-3. Sharp finishing will be required from their attackers if the Blue Samurai are to get beyond the group stage.

Spain helped begin the ‘tiki-taka’ trend of possession football and won the Euro 2008, then World Cup 2010, and then retained the European Championship in 2012. This feat bettered West Germany’s run – starting at Euro 1972 and ending in international football’s first penalty shootout in the final of Euro 1976 – and now Brazil’s and Italy’s retention of the World Cup remains.

Xavi Hernandez and Andres Iniesta helped Barcelona strangle possession throughout wins in two Champions League titles throughout that period. But whereas the Blaugrana had Lionel Messi breaking goalscoring records, the national side emphasise defence, adding Xabi Alonso to Barcelona’s Busquets at the base of midfield.

La Furia Roja maintained a run of ten consecutive clean sheets going into the tournament, with the pace of Real Madrid Sergio Ramos helping maintain the high line that helps possession be successful. Forwards David Villa and Fernando Torres are past their peak, prompting the absence of a traditional striker for much of Euro 2012, but the naturalisation of Brazil-born Diego Costa adds pace, power and aerial ability.

In the past Spain have used right-winger Jesus Navas, and the height and link-up play of target-man Fernando Llorente to increase the pressure against a tiring defence, but both are absent. Versatile Pedro can add directness and finishing ability from the bench, but if Diego Costa continues the form that helped Atletico Madrid claim La Liga, La Furia Roja have all they need to make history and claim a fourth successive tournament.

Holland were runners-up in World Cup 2010 but their defensive style of football under Bert van Marwijk won few friends after their final display featured several aggressive challenges. Louis Van Gaal taking charge led the side to a more technical and positive approach, but levels of optimism have been restrained.

Van Gaal was appointed Manchester United manager before the end of the season, and the squad’s preparation was further disrupted by midfield all-rounder Kevin Strootman’s injury. The Roma left-footer had contributed in both defence and attack, and Van Gaal chose to change in formation and add a third centre-back in his place.

Ajax goalkeeper Jasper Cillesen sits behind a youthful back-line whose experience is largely confined to the Eredivisie, but Ron Vlaar adds Premier League know-how and aerial ability and the combative Nigel de Jong provides an effective shield. Wing-backs Daryl Janmaat and Daley Blind have won praise for their athleticism and technical ability respectively, though Wesley Sneijder has declined since his glorious treble-winning season in 2010.

However, the formation change allows the front two of Arjen Robben and Robin Van Persie more freedom to drift around the pitch and time their runs to pick up Sneijder’s excellent long-passing to greatest effect. The Oranje rely heavily on the pair’s formidable finishing ability, but that took them to an extra-time defeat in the final in 2010.

Chile are decisively committed to an attacking game plan under manager Jorge Sampaoli, who has continued the system of energetic pressing devised by former Argentina manager Marcelo Bielsa.

Capable of inspiring attacking play and pace, but placing intense demands on the limited numbers of defenders kept back and the fitness of the players, they drew just one of their 16 CONMEBOL league matches

Alexis Sanchez scored 21 goals for Barcelona last season, and together with Eduardo Vargas starts from the flanks before attacking with explosive pace and finishing ability in front of goal. Jorge Valdivia has played in a ‘false 9’ role as a playmaker who starts up front but drops back to receive possession before looking to place through-balls behind the defence.

But the central attacking role could go to tireless box-to-box midfielder Arturo Vidal who netted 18 goals for Juventus before his season was disrupted by an injury, from which he may not have recovered match fitness. The forward runs of fellow central midfielder Charles Aranguiz, right-back Mauricio Isla and left-back Eugenio Mena (or Jean Beausejour) add to the team’s high-energy game.

Marcelo Diaz anchors the midfield ahead of either a back-three or a central defensive pair in a high line. However with the tall but slow Marcos Gonzales omitted from the squad, the side frequently field no defenders who play centre-back at club level and no players in the entire team over 6’.

Unless the team avoid conceding set pieces, their resulting inability to defend crosses could undermine everything achieved in attack. However, if allowed to play to their strengths and keep the ball high up the pitch, they have the pace to outscore most opposition.

Australia left it late to secure qualification after an early defeat to Jordan, and manager Holger Osieck saw his conservative approach in high-profile friendlies against France and Brazil met with consecutive 6-0 defeats.

His replacement with Ange Postecoglou was a popular choice, given the latter’s positive approach in the domestic league, and introducing younger players ahead of when they host the 2015 Asian Cup was emphasised over collecting points as his aim going into the tournament. Crystal Palace captain and midfield anchorman Mile Jedinak plays a key role alongside Mark Milligan in dropping deep to support the largely inexperienced defence.

The pair encourage the full-backs to support the pacey but raw duo of Tommy Oar and Matthew Leckie on the flanks, either side of experienced playmaker Mark Bresciano. Tim Cahill, whose excellent heading ability prompted his conversion from midfield to attack, and the giant Josh Kennedy each offer aerial strength.

However, compared to such a strong group the Socceroos lack both experience in defence and quality in attack, and attacking ambition beyond counter-attacking wing-play and set-piece strength could be punished with heavy defeats.

Brazil won the 2013 Confederations Cup with five victories from each of their first competitive matches in two years, facing both Euro 2012 finalists Spain and Italy. The performances suggested that after half a year in charge, manager Felipao had the squad acclimatising to the pressure they face as host nations.

The Selecao had been struggling to qualify for World Cup 2002 before his first appointment, and were hit by a run of just two wins in eight games as he took charge for the second time. But in each tournament he constructed a winning team built around a solid defensive spine allowing his stars freedom to attack.

In their 2010 quarter-final against Holland, Brazil were unable to cancel out a goal resulting a goalkeeping error Julio Cesar, who has recently lacked game-time at the top level. A setback could prompt negative memories of the goalkeeping error in 1950 and their ability to chase a game is untested.

The team relies heavily on Neymar for quality in attack, but the arrangement has a clear purpose and he has thrived to score 31 goals in 49 games. Fred lacks pace but finishes well, and against a defence that has dropped deep against the pace of Hulk and the Barcelona star, he has the link-up play to help crack it.

Luiz Gustavo’s defensive presence on the left side of central midfield supports pacey centre-backs David Luiz and Thiago Silva, and gives more freedom to Marcelo and Neymar on the left flank. To his right, each of Paulinho, Oscar and Hulk possess a high work-rate, allowing Dani Alves forward from right-back.

The fearsome athleticism throughout the side makes them difficult to attack without encouraging counter-attacks, and they are the clear favourites. Nate Silver puts their chances even higher. If the opening match contains a surprise it could be a spectacular win for the home side.

Croatia began their qualifying campaign with five wins and a draw against eventual Group A winners Belgium, but after collecting only one draw from their last four matches the 1998 semi-finalist Igor Stimac was replaced as manager.

Niko Kovac took charge for the two-legged play-off against Iceland, which they opened nervously with a 0-0 draw away. They secured progression in the return leg with a 2-0 home win, but striker Mario Mandzukic was sent off shortly after scoring the opening goal and he now misses the opening game against Brazil.

The Bayern Munich treble-winner’s work rate, and hold-up play are crucial to capitalise on the outstanding central midfield quality and passing range of Luka Modric and Ivan Rakitic. The side’s natural wide players, Danijel Pranjic, Sime Vrsaljko and Dario Srna play at full-back, while positions on the flanks are left to strikers such as Ivica Olic or playmakers such as Ivan Perisic.

The youthful Mateo Kovacic can add his prodigious dribbling ability to the side’s midfield prowess, and has played a bigger role for Croatia than for Inter Milan. But unless Kovac adds a dedicated physical presence in midfield such as Ognjen Vukojevic to cover the full-backs, or successfully defends by keeping the ball, opponents will be invited to defend deep and wait for their chance to strike powerfully on the counter.

Opening day opponents Brazil are ideally suited to doing so and if they manage this in the opening game, the confidence so crucial to their midfield creativity may falter and the team could disappoint.

Mexico almost failed to qualify after collecting just two wins from ten games in the Fourth Round group stage of the CONCACAF qualifying tournament, but a final day favour from group winners USA helped them reach fourth place behind Costa Rica and Honduras before their third manager during qualification was dismissed.

New manager Miguel Herrera took charge and, after attempting to improve morale among the side by selecting predominantly home-based players in his squad, qualified with a 9-3 aggregate win over New Zealand in their inter-continental play-off.

His 3-5-2 system relies on the athleticism from a five-man midfield anchored by Jose Vazquez in front of vastly experienced former Barcelona centre-back Rafael Marquez. His preference for a front-two system sees either pacey Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez or Villarreal attacker Giovani Dos Santos miss out, with strong finisher Oribe Peralta left up front with much of his side’s attacking responsibility.

Cameroon relied on Togo fielding an ineligible player in order to qualify, and were still hindered by lingering disagreements shortly before the tournament, but have many players based in strong leagues in Europe. Much of their defensive core has Champions League experience, but the teams lack of stability during qualification limits their cohesion in attack.

However, the side’s aerial power, Alex Song’s passing range, and Samuel Eto’o finishing instinct offer hope for moments of individual quality, and I always think wide-forward Eric-Maxim Choupo-Moting stands out as a goal threat in ITV 4’s Bundesliga highlights programme.

With a favourable result against Mexico, they could build momentum ahead of a deciding fixture in Manaus against Croatia with the hot and humid conditions supporting them in their bid for an upset.

Brazil qualified as hosts, while in 2011 as many as 202 other teams began A competition for the remaining 31 starting positions in the FIFA World Cup that concluded over two years later.

In the AFC a row broke out in Fourth Round Group A between Iran and South Korea whose coach complained about the facilities provided in their away fixture, and the East Asian side going on to qualify ahead of Uzbekistan on goal difference after their last match. Australia reached the World Cup in alongside Group B winners Japan despite losing away to Jordan, who faced Uzbekistan in the continent’s fifth round tie between the two third placed sides. After the two could not be separated over two legs the play-off was won by Jordan 9-8 on penalties.

The CONMEBOL qualifying competition saw Argentina, Colombia and Chile negotiate their 16 games more comfortably than above Ecuador, who were hit by the tragic death of Cristian Benitez, and Uruguay who succumbed to defeat in a string of away fixtures. Uruguay were beaten in the table on goal difference, forcing them into an inter-continental play-off against Jordan which they won comfortably 5-0 on aggregate.

The CONCACAF competition saw heavily fancied Mexico almost succumb to complacency and fail to qualify with just two wins from ten games in the Fourth Round group stage, but a final day favour from group winners USA helped them reach fourth place behind Costa Rica and Honduras. Mexico then qualified after a 9-3 aggregate win over comfortable OFC competition winners New Zealand in their inter-continental play-off.

The CAF Second Round group stage saw Morocco, Zambia and Mali eliminated with most of the drama was saved for the Third Round play-offs. Egypt, winners of three of the last five Africa Cups of Nations, were blown apart 6-1 away in Ghana despite winning all but one of their previous group matches, while Burkina Faso were denied entry on away goals when a late winner would have taken them through. In the end all five qualifiers for the 2010 tournament again made it to 2014.

RONALDO WINS TITANIC BATTLE WITH IBRAHIMOVIC

In Europe, Belgium, Italy, Germany, the Netherlands and Switzerland qualified as comfortable group winners, while Russia, debut finalists Bosnia, England and Spain took longer after close competition from Portugal, Greece, Ukraine and France respectively. In the play-offs, Greece overcame Romania after a strong home performance, while experienced Croatia held their nerve after a 0-0 draw away at minnows Iceland to record a 2-0 win at home and go through. The drama occurred as France needed to overturn a 2-0 defeat away in Ukraine, and did so with a 3-0 victory in Paris, and the highlight was Cristiano Ronaldo’s display away in Sweden as the Ballon D’Or winner’s hat-trick overshadowed Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s two goals to ensure the giant striker would miss the World Cup after Sweden were beaten 4-2 on aggregate.

Manchester United and Chelsea each acquired new managers over the summer, and the transfer window gave the opportunity to make changes after getting used to their new teams. How have they used it? 

Manchester United have further improved their attack by signing Juan Mata in a move recalling the acquisition of Robin Van Persie, rather than address weakness in midfield.

Sir Alex Ferguson retired after a collecting a Premier League title win in his final season, while the outstanding Dutch international gained individual awards. He had support however from wingers Luis Valencia, Nani and Ashley Young, who Ferguson successfully rotated to keep them in the form required to break into opponents halves on transitions.

But their defensive partnership of Ferdinand and Vidic got older while the younger Jonny Evans Chris Smalling have not formed a settled partnership in their place. And in midfield, the inability of Anderson and the ill Darren Fletcher to successfully partner Michael Carrick left the burden on an under-fire Tom Cleverley or an out of position Phil Jones.

Marouane Fellaini was the remedy chosen in the summer. Though he did not show sufficient technical prowess to install himself in the side before being ruled out through injury, it could prove the right decision to give him the chance to recover before assessing whether a move for another established midfielder is needed.

And United wouldn’t have won a bidding war with Paris Saint Germain for Yohan Cabaye anyway. 

In selling Mata and using the money to rebuild, Chelsea however have addressed a weakness in signing Nemanja Matic to act as their anchor man. Mourinho has been clear in his attempt to threaten on transitions through agile and pacey attackers such as Hazard, Willian, Schurrle, and now left-footed Mohamed Salah.

Selling Juan Mata and allowing Oscar to take centre-stage confirmed that his playmaker, should he use one at all, would be defensively conscientious and help the team resist long spells of pressure that could be relieved through a quick break from an attacker.

However I see the 6’4’’ midfielder as an upgrade on Jon Obi Mikel that will allow the Blues more control in midfield against the top sides, and can grant his attackers more freedom through his greater defensive presence to halt opponents’ counter-attacks.

His proactive approach to defensive pressing and greater defensive presence will limit opponents’ ability to retain possession, and while Mikel displays his passing ability conservatively and from deep, Matic adds an ability to carry the ball up the pitch before picking a pass to a more creative player.

While they lack a blue chip striker like an Edinson Cavani or a Wayne Rooney (buy in the summer with money raised from selling David Luiz?), I think the Blues would have proved a match for Manchester City even had Fernandinho remained fit.