In Route to Brazil 2014

The FIFA World Cup 2014 qualifiers have began and the recent matches provide a hint of the squads that will provide tough competition. Among those national teams stand the ones we are familiar with, like Germany, Spain, Portugal, Argentina and Belgium. But the beauty of this tournament is that sometimes the least expected team surprises fans by providing an extraordinary performance.

Traditionally, the German squad is among the tough teams at every World Cup and next year won’t be an exception. The squad is still formed by young, fast and strong players such as Thomas Müller, a midfielder with great technique that enjoys taking on attacking roles; Schweinsteiger, a successful player that has won many awards but still remains very hungry for a World Cup title; Mario Götze, a fascinating player to watch, the 21 year old has speed and dribbling skills. Other familiar faces of the German squad are Mezut Ozil, Sami Khedira and Lukas Podolski. Germany will definitely have enough ammunition of footballers in Brazil.

Another team that not many would like to play against would be Spain. The Iberians currently hold the World Cup Title that is sandwiched by back to back Eurocups.  They still have players with the finesse and quick passing skills that have taken this team to a whole different level. Among those players are Iker Casillas; not only he has cat-like reflects on the goalie but also great leadership skills; Xavi, his passing skills are lethal; Iniesta, a key player with excellent dribbling and passing skills. Other great players to watch on attacking roles would be Roberto Soldado, David Villa. No doubt that Spain will put a great show in Brazil.

Argentina drew in the last two matches but they still are the leaders of the CONMEBOL. They will be a fascinating team to watch not only because they have superstar Lionel Messi but also because they are hungry for success in the world stage. Another team with potential success is Portugal. This team has yet to take home the most coveted trophy in football. But they have superstar Cristiano Ronaldo and for that reason they’ll be fascinating to watch as well.

Belgium could be a very fierce competitor in Brazil. Currently, they’re the leaders of Group A, and recently they beat the USA in a friendly match 4-2. They are a handful of skillful great players such as Marouane Fellaini, Eden Hazard, Jan Vertonghen, Romelu Lukaku among others. It won’t be a surprise if they go far in the tournament next year if they keep their current rhythm.